How Do I Get a Permanent QR Code?
Sally Wright
Jun 28, 2023
If you're putting a QR code on a business card, product package, flyer, menu, or sign, you probably want it to keep working for as long as you use that material.
That's where a permanent QR code can be useful.
A permanent QR code is intended for long-term use and doesn't need to be replaced every few weeks or months. Depending on the type of QR code you create, you may also be able to change the content connected to it without creating a new code.
You can create a permanent QR code online with a QR code generator such as QR Codes Unlimited. No coding experience is required, and you can create QR codes for plain text, vCards, PDFs, images, and other types of content.
TL;DR
- A permanent QR code is intended for long-term use.
- Static QR codes store information directly in the code and generally can't be edited after creation.
- Dynamic QR codes can let you change the destination without replacing the printed QR code.
- QR Codes Unlimited lets you create QR codes for URLs, vCards, PDFs, images, and more.
- You can customize your QR code with colors, logos, shapes, and frames.
- Dynamic QR codes can provide scan tracking and analytics.
- QR codes can be used on business cards, packaging, menus, flyers, posters, and other materials.
- You can create a QR code in a few minutes without technical skills.
What Is a Permanent QR Code?
A permanent QR code is a QR code designed for continued, long-term use rather than a short-term promotion.
However, there's an important detail to understand: QR codes don't have a universal expiration date.
For example, a static QR code containing a website URL can continue working as long as that URL remains active. The code itself doesn't suddenly stop working because a certain amount of time has passed.
Dynamic QR codes work a little differently. A dynamic code typically uses a managed URL between the QR code and the final destination. This means you can change where the QR code sends people without changing the QR code printed on your materials.
So, when people search for a "QR code that doesn't expire," they're usually looking for a QR code they can keep using without having to generate and print a replacement.
Static vs. Dynamic QR Codes
Understanding the difference between static and dynamic QR codes can help you choose the right option for long-term use.
Static QR Codes
A static QR code stores its information directly in the code.
You could use one to share a website URL, contact information, Wi-Fi details, or plain text. Once the code has been generated, the information generally can't be changed.
For example, if you create a static QR code for your business website and later move to a different domain, the original code will still point to the old URL. You would need to create and print a new QR code.
Static QR codes are useful when the information you're sharing is unlikely to change.
Dynamic QR Codes
Dynamic QR codes give you more flexibility.
Instead of permanently locking the QR code to one destination, a dynamic QR code can direct scanners through a managed URL. You can then update the destination without changing the QR code itself.
This can be helpful when you're printing thousands of business cards, brochures, labels, or product packages.
For example, a restaurant could print one QR code on its menus and update the destination when the digital menu changes. There's no need to redesign and print every menu just because the link has changed.
Dynamic QR codes can also provide scan tracking, which lets you see how people are interacting with your code.
Benefits of Using a Permanent QR Code
A QR code that you can keep using over time can be useful for both personal and business purposes.
Long-Term Use
The main benefit is simple: you can use the same QR code for an extended period.
This makes QR codes practical for materials such as business cards, product packaging, posters, brochures, menus, and signs.
As long as the destination remains available, people can continue scanning the code.
No Need to Reprint After Every Update
This is where dynamic QR codes can be especially helpful.
If you print a QR code on physical materials and later need to change the linked content, a dynamic QR code can allow you to update the destination while keeping the same code.
You could change a landing page, replace a PDF, update a menu, or direct visitors to a different page without creating another printed QR code.
Customizable Designs
QR codes can also be customized to fit your branding.
With QR Codes Unlimited, you can adjust elements such as colors, shapes, frames, fonts, and logos. This gives you more control over how the code looks on your marketing materials.
Just remember that customization shouldn't come at the expense of readability. Your QR code still needs enough contrast and a clear design so smartphones can scan it properly.
Scan Tracking
Knowing that people can scan your QR code is useful. Knowing whether they're actually scanning it is even better.
Dynamic QR codes can provide scan tracking and analytics. With QR Codes Unlimited, you can use its tracking features to monitor QR code activity.
This can help you determine whether a QR code on a flyer, business card, poster, or other marketing material is getting attention.
Multiple Uses
Permanent QR codes aren't limited to website links.
You can use them to share:
- Business contact information
- Resumes and portfolios
- PDFs and documents
- Images
- Digital menus
- Event information
- Landing pages
- Product information
- Social media profiles
- Other online content
How to Create a Permanent QR Code With QR Codes Unlimited
Creating a QR code doesn't require programming or graphic design experience. You can create one online in a few steps.
Step 1: Open QR Codes Unlimited
Open your browser and go to QR Codes Unlimited.
Step 2: Choose Your QR Code Type
Find the Target section and choose the type of QR code you want to create.
You can select the option that matches the content you're sharing, such as a URL, vCard, image, or PDF.
Step 3: Add Your Information
Enter the information or destination you want your QR code to use.
If you're creating a dynamic QR code, double-check the destination before continuing. This is the page your audience will reach after scanning the code.
Step 4: Customize the Design
You can customize your QR code by adding a logo, changing colors, selecting shapes, and adding a frame or font.
Try scanning the code as you make changes. Some design combinations can make QR codes harder for phones to read.
Step 5: Download Your QR Code
Once you're happy with the design, select Free Download to generate your QR code.
Before printing it, scan the downloaded file with a smartphone to make sure everything works correctly.
Tips for Using a Permanent QR Code
Creating the QR code is only the first step. You also need to make sure people can scan it and reach the right content.
- Test the code before printing. Scan it from the final version of your design. If you're printing it on a poster or package, test a physical sample as well.
- Keep the destination active. A QR code can remain usable for years, but it won't help if the website or file it points to has been removed.
- Add a call to action. Instead of placing a QR code by itself, tell people what they'll get by scanning it. For example, use "Scan to view our menu" or "Scan to save my contact."
- Use an appropriate size. A QR code should be large enough for your audience to scan comfortably, especially when it's being used on posters, signs, or displays.
Create a Permanent QR Code for Free
A QR code can stay on a business card, package, poster, or menu long after you've created it. That's why choosing the right type of QR code is important.
If the information won't change, a static QR code may be all you need. If you want to update the destination later or track scans, a dynamic QR code offers more flexibility.
With QR Codes Unlimited, you can create and customize QR codes for different types of content and use them for both personal and professional projects.
Create your QR code, test it before publishing, and use it wherever you need a reliable way to connect people to your digital content.
For more guides and tutorials, visit the QR Codes Unlimited Academy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do permanent QR codes expire?
QR codes don't have a universal expiration date. A static QR code can continue working as long as the information it contains remains valid. Dynamic QR codes depend on the service managing the code and the availability of their destination.
What is the difference between a permanent and dynamic QR code?
"Permanent" generally refers to a QR code intended for long-term use, while "dynamic" refers to how the destination is managed. A dynamic QR code can allow you to change its destination without creating a new QR code.
Can I create a permanent QR code for free?
Yes. QR Codes Unlimited lets you create QR codes for different types of content without paying for QR code generation. It also provides customization and scan tracking features for supported dynamic QR codes.
Can I edit a permanent QR code?
It depends on the type. Static QR codes generally can't be edited after they're created. Dynamic QR codes can allow you to update the destination while keeping the same QR code.
How long does a QR code last?
There is no standard expiration period for QR codes. A static QR code can continue working as long as its encoded information is still available. A dynamic QR code depends on the service managing it and its destination.
Where can I use a permanent QR code?
You can use permanent QR codes on business cards, resumes, flyers, menus, product packaging, posters, signs, event materials, and many other physical or digital assets.
