How to Use a QR Code on Billboards

If you’re a small business looking to cultivate new relationships while maintaining an existing customer base, there’s a way to easily give you the best of both worlds in a cost-effective way: QR codes. These unique codes are versatile marketing tools that can be used to extend the capabilities of your printed marketing materials, like billboards and posters. 

If you’re unsure how to create a billboard with QR code capabilities, we’re here to help. This guide will give you the full details of how they work, plus a few tips for getting started.

What Kind of QR Codes Should I Use on a Billboard?

If you’re ready to generate your first QR code but aren’t sure how to use it, here are a few ideas.

New Products and Releases

The most popular way to use a billboard with QR code tech is for sending interested consumers to a page on your website that lists your newest product or service. These URL QR codes are particularly useful if you don’t have a lot of space for text but still need to convey helpful information about your new release.

Email List Sign-Ups

Email marketing is vital for businesses of any size, so using a QR code for email sign-ups takes a lot of the hard work out of the picture and ensures you’ll never lose your list of leads again.

Links to Your Social Media

If you use social media to engage with your fans, using a QR code linked to your main social account is a great way to funnel consumers to the platforms where you most want to boost your numbers.

Reviews

No advertising is better than word-of-mouth, so set up a new QR code that directs customers to a review site where they can share their experiences with your business.

What Is a QR Code, and How Does It Work?

Quick response (QR) codes are unique codes that smartphones and tablets can scan with their built-in cameras. These codes are used for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to:

  • Sending the client to a URL
  • Sending an email to a specified address
  • Showing an image or video

Your imagination only limits the possibilities of using a billboard with QR code capabilities.

Static QR Codes vs. Dynamic QR Codes

Static 

Static codes direct the client to a permanent URL or action and cannot be changed. Static codes are a popular QR code option for billboards and are great for businesses who want to test how well they work for marketing. 

Dynamic 

Dynamic codes can be edited and re-edited as needed — even after printing.

How to Make QR Codes for a Billboard

Making a QR code is easy! Here’s how to do it using our QR code generator:

  1. Select the type of code you’d like to make. Some of the options we provide include:
  2. Enter your content
  3. Customize the code with your brand colors or use a gradient to make your code pop.
  4. Add your logo or another image to help better brand your unique code.
  5. Customize the design with the right weight and style.
  6. Click “Create QR Code,” and you’ll receive a unique, ready-to-use code.
  7. Test your QR code to ensure it works correctly by aiming your smartphone camera at the code.

Should I Use a QR Code on Billboards?

Using a QR code is an excellent way to keep your customers up-to-date while also providing fast and effective customer service options in a budget-friendly way.

Ready to get started? Use our free QR code generator to create a unique QR code for your billboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change where a QR code sends customers?

If you create a dynamic QR code, you’ll have the ability to update the action scanning your code takes. However, this can be hard to manage when you have multiple codes. Instead, if you want to change where a QR code goes, you can create a new static QR code.

How easy is it to use a QR code?

Both iOS and Android smartphones have built-in technology that automatically recognizes a QR code through their camera apps. All your customer has to do is open their camera and scan the code; their phone will do the rest.

Where can I put a QR code on a billboard?

A QR code can go anywhere on a billboard; just ensure that it’s both printed at a 1:1 ratio so that the code works correctly and that it’s easy for consumers to capture. Many marketers will put the QR code on either the bottom left or right corner, but you should consider where the code makes the most sense aesthetically.

Can I use my new QR code digitally?

Yes, your new code can be used both digitally and in print. In addition to your billboard, consider putting a code on the main page of your website or in your email signature.