Exporting QR Codes
This page explains how to export QR codes from BaseQR for print and digital use, when to choose each format, and how to avoid common production issues.
Export locations
• From a code’s detail page — Open a QR code inside its campaign and choose Export. Select SVG, PNG, or JPG and, if prompted, choose the appropriate size for your placement.
File formats and when to use them
• SVG (vector) — Use for print and any placement that may be resized. SVG scales without loss, preserves crisp edges, and is preferred for vendor workflows. Avoid rasterizing during layout if possible.
• PNG (raster, transparent background) — Use for digital placements and small-to-medium print where exact pixel control is needed. Supports transparency. Export at sufficient pixel dimensions to match the final display or print size.
• JPG (raster, solid background) — Use when a small file size is required and transparency is not needed. Export at high quality to minimize compression artifacts.
Sizing guidance
• Print — Export SVG whenever available. If you must use raster, a common rule is at least 300 dpi at final size.
Example: a 2 in (50.8 mm) printed QR should be exported at least 600 × 600 px.
• Digital — Match or exceed the display size in pixels. Avoid upscaling in your design tool or CMS.
• Quiet zone — Maintain a clear margin around the code (no text, logos, or borders inside the margin). See Accessibility & Contrast Guidelines for specifics.
Color and contrast
• High contrast — Dark code on a light background is most reliable. Ensure the quiet zone uses the same light background.
• Avoid effects — Do not add drop shadows, gradients, or compression that softens edges. Keep modules crisp and square.
• Brand color usage — If you apply color, re-check contrast in the final environment (paper stock, lighting, screen theme). When in doubt, use black on white.
Preparing for print
• Vendor-ready assets — Provide SVG where possible. If sending PNG/JPG, confirm pixel dimensions meet the printer’s guidance at final size.
• Material checks — Test on the actual substrate (for example, glossy labels vs. uncoated stock). Glare and texture can affect scanning.
• Proofing — Print a proof at 100% scale and scan with multiple devices from the intended viewing distance.
Preparing for digital
• Compression — Use lossless or high-quality settings. Avoid aggressive web compression that introduces artifacts.
• Backgrounds — Maintain a stable, light background behind the code. Avoid busy images or patterns inside the quiet zone.
• Responsive use — Provide multiple sizes if the same asset will appear across different screen densities.
Post-export validation
• Scan on real devices — Test on current iOS and Android devices over Wi-Fi and cellular.
• Open-time and SSL — Ensure the destination loads quickly and over HTTPS.
• UTM confirmation — Verify the final URL includes the intended UTM parameters and that GA4 Real-Time reflects the expected source/medium/campaign.
Troubleshooting
• Blurry or soft edges — Re-export as SVG for print or increase raster size (higher pixel dimensions) for PNG/JPG.
• Poor scan rate — Increase physical size, improve contrast, and expand the quiet zone. Re-test on the actual medium.
• Unexpected attribution — Confirm the exported URL contains a single, correct set of UTM parameters and that downstream redirects preserve them.