Mount it at eye level
Place the code where a standing adult can hold a phone to it comfortably — roughly 1.4–1.6 m off the ground.
Where to use
A window that works after hours
Stick a QR code on the glass and anyone walking by can browse your menu, grab an offer or read reviews — even when the lights are off and the door's locked.
- Reads from the sidewalk
- Always open
- Editable offers
Storefront window QR size guide
Glass is read from a step back on the sidewalk, roughly 1–2 m away. The rule of thumb: minimum size ≈ scan distance ÷ 10.
| Context | Minimum size | Scan distance |
|---|---|---|
| Door decal at close range | 5 × 5 cm | up to ~1 m |
| Window sticker at eye level | 8 × 8 cm | up to ~2 m |
| Large or high window panel | 10 × 10 cm | up to ~2.5 m |
| Small hours or notice sticker | 3 × 3 cm | up to ~50 cm |
Note: Test through the actual glass, in daylight, from where people will stand — reflections and window tint change how easily a phone locks on.
Who it's for
Turn the glass into a front desk
After-hours info
Show hours, contact and directions so a closed door still answers questions.
Window promotions
Run a scan-for-offer that you can swap out weekly without new stickers.
Collect reviews
Turn happy passers-by and regulars into a quick rating or review.
Menus & bookings
Let people browse the menu or book a table before they step inside.
Hiring
Post "scan to apply" so a walk-by becomes a job application.
Events & launches
Point to a signup or RSVP page during a sale or opening.
Storefront window QR code FAQ
How big should a QR code be on a shop window?
For someone standing a step back (about 1 m), 5 × 5 cm works; at 2 m go to 8–10 cm. Bigger is safer on a busy street where people don't want to press their face to the glass.
Will glare on the window stop it scanning?
It can in bright sun. Print on matte vinyl, keep strong contrast and avoid placing it where direct light reflects off the glass.
Should the code face out or in?
If it's stuck on the inside of the glass, print it reversed (mirrored) so it reads correctly from outside. Most window-decal print shops handle this for you.
Can I change the offer without replacing the sticker?
Yes, with a dynamic code. Change the destination — this week's deal, a new menu, a hiring page — and the same sticker keeps working.
What should it link to?
Whatever a passer-by needs most: hours and contact, your menu, a booking page, current offers or reviews. You can point it somewhere different anytime.
Design for the real scanning moment
- Avoid reflections, mount the code near eye level and make it useful outside opening hours.
- 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 Business, Website, Coupon.
Let the window sell after closing
Create a storefront QR code — big enough to read from the sidewalk, easy to update anytime.