Give it white space
Thermal print smudges and fades, so leave a generous clear margin so the pattern stays defined.
Where to use
A receipt that asks for the review
Print a QR code on the receipt and the moment of a good visit becomes a rating, a survey answer or a loyalty signup — while the customer still has their phone out.
- Right after the sale
- Thermal-safe sizes
- Editable link
Receipt QR size guide
Receipts are read in the hand, about 15 cm from the eye — but thermal print is faint, so don't size to the minimum. The rule of thumb: minimum size ≈ scan distance ÷ 10.
| Context | Minimum size | Scan distance |
|---|---|---|
| Standard thermal receipt | 1.5 × 1.5 cm | up to ~15 cm |
| Code with generous white space | 2 × 2 cm | up to ~20 cm |
| Bottom-of-receipt promo block | 2 × 2 cm | up to ~15 cm |
| Wide-format or kitchen receipt | 2.5 × 2.5 cm | up to ~20 cm |
Note: Thermal receipts fade and rub — test on the actual paper after it's been in a pocket, not just fresh off the printer.
Who it's for
Turn a receipt into a next step
Collect reviews
Catch customers at their happiest and turn a good visit into a rating.
Run quick surveys
Ask one or two questions about the visit while it's fresh.
Grow loyalty
Let customers join a loyalty programme or points card in a tap.
Offer a return visit
Reward the next trip with a scan-for-discount on the receipt.
Returns & warranty
Link to your returns policy or warranty registration for the item bought.
Digital receipt
Send a full digital copy for expenses and records.
Receipt QR code FAQ
How small can a QR code be on a receipt?
Aim for at least 1.5 × 1.5 cm, and 2 × 2 cm if you can spare the space. Thermal print is faint, so going smaller than that risks scans failing as the receipt fades.
Will it still scan after the receipt fades?
Thermal ink fades with heat, light and rubbing. Bigger codes with a clear margin last longer — but for anything important, keep the size up and the contrast strong.
What should a receipt QR code link to?
The next useful step: a review page, a short survey, a loyalty signup, a return-visit offer or returns and warranty info. Pick one clear action.
Can I change the destination without reprogramming the till?
Yes, with a dynamic code. The till prints the same static image, but you repoint it — from a review push to a seasonal offer — whenever you like.
Where on the receipt should it go?
Near the bottom, with white space around it and a short line like "Scan to rate us." Keep it clear of the tear edge and any dense text.
What makes this placement work
- Keep the print dark enough for thermal paper and place the code above the area most likely to fade or tear.
- Preserve the quiet zone around the code.
- Avoid decorative changes that reduce foreground/background contrast.
- Scan a production proof with more than one phone before approving the full run.
- Match the destination to the placement. Common choices include Feedback, Coupon, Website.
Make every receipt earn a review
Create a receipt QR code — sized for thermal print, editable whenever your ask changes.