QR Code Redirection: Everything You Need to Know

Did you know changing the destination of a QR code is just as easy as creating one? 

Yes, you can redirect an existing QR code without regenerating or reprinting it. However, unlike static QR codes, this is possible only with a dynamic QR code, which is editable and allows real-time information updates.

QR code redirection solves many problems, such as updating the tool with new content or fixing a broken link. The best part is that you save on reprinting costs, time, and effort. 

This is a complete guide to redirecting QR codes to a different URL. It also explains why QR code redirection is important and how businesses use it for different purposes. Let’s explore.  

What is QR code redirection?

QR code redirection is the process of changing the destination URL of an existing dynamic QR code without generating a new one. When scanned, a dynamic QR code directs users to a short URL hosted on the QR service provider’s server. The server logs the scan request and redirects the user to the final destination URL.

Most QR service providers enable you to update or replace the destination URL as often as needed, providing flexibility and eliminating the need to recreate or redistribute a new QR code after changes.

Simple steps to redirect QR codes 

Let’s take a look at the basic steps for redirecting a QR code: 

Step 1: Log in to your QRCodeChimp account and head to the dashboard to access the QR code you want to redirect.

Step 2: Click on the ‘Edit’ option next to the existing QR code on the dashboard.

Step 3: In the ‘Website or Page URL’ field, replace the existing destination URL by pasting the new URL. 

Step 4 (Optional): You can customize the QR code’s color, shape, design, or logo. 

Step 5: Finally, save and download the QR code. Now, the code will redirect to the new link upon scanning. 

Why use QR code redirection?

QR code redirection is required when a user wants to revamp outdated content, replace broken links, or optimize several in-built features without generating a new code. Let’s explore this in detail.

📌 Promoting different landing pages

One of the most common reasons to redirect a QR code is to promote new landing pages. Due to changing market trends or seasonal demands, you can create a new marketing campaign or a landing page and redirect your branded QR codes to new pages. 

📌 Launching new sites

Sometimes, brands undergo restructuring of their existing sites, including social media platforms. Businesses can send users by redirecting the QR codes to new sites displaying updated content and the latest information.

📌 Replacing broken links

Encountering a broken link on a QR is common due to a lack of software updates, technical glitches, expired domain or website restructuring, etc. QR code redirection to an active URL can provide an uninterrupted and much smoother user experience.

You may be worried about what would happen to your already-distributed flyers or other printed materials with the QR code on them. Worry not! Once you change a new URL in the dynamic QR code, users will see the updated content in those flyers or advertising materials upon scanning.  

When should you use QR code redirection? 

Businesses across various industries use QR code redirection to adapt to changing industry trends and bolster their marketing campaigns. Let’s look at how and when businesses often use it:

🏷️ For seasonal or festive discounts

When offering seasonal or festive discounts, businesses redirect QR codes to match a specific seasonal, holiday, or festive theme. For example, if it’s New Year’s Eve and you want to offer a special discount, you can redirect the same QR code previously linked to Christmas to New Year offers. Redirection helps businesses update QR code content in real time without the need for reprinting, thus saving on reprinting costs. 

⏳ For limited-time offers 

Redirecting a QR code for a limited-time offer, such as the Black Friday sale, is a smart business move. Updating the destination URL in real time offers flexibility and makes it easier for businesses to promote time-sensitive offers. 

If you’re using a smart QR code for a limited-time offer – for instance, to redirect customers at your restaurant to an exclusive Christmas lunch menu – you can update the QR code link later in the evening to redirect customers to a dinner menu. 

🆕 For new product launches 

When a company launches a new product, it can use the same QR code previously used to redirect to the new product page without reprinting the code. The redirected page includes video tutorials of new products and their benefits, helping potential buyers access quick information before buying the product. 

🔗 To change payment links 

Redirecting QR codes to change payment links is common in e-commerce businesses, physical retail stores, and subscription-based service platforms. 

Suppose you’re using a payment QR code to allow your customers to make instant online payments. If the payment gateway has a technical issue, you may need to switch to a different payment platform, such as PayPal or Payoneer. QR code redirection is the ideal solution to this problem. You can simply replace the current payment link with a new one, offering customers a seamless payment experience. 

▶️ To change YouTube video links 

QR code redirection can be used to update YouTube video links. For example, suppose you have used the YouTube QR code to redirect potential clients to a virtual tour of your newly established yoga studio. You can update the URL later to redirect viewers to a different video, like a beginner-friendly yoga tutorial. 

📍To update the location URL

When using a Google Maps QR code to direct users to a specific location on Google Maps, changing or updating the location URL is a breeze. QR code redirection is needed in such cases. Simply replace the URL with a new one that opens the new Google Map location, and there you go! 

QRCodeChimp: A leading platform for creating dynamic QR codes

Here are several reasons why QRCodeChimp is your ideal choice when looking for the best dynamic QR code generator: 

✅ QRCodeChimp offers a user-friendly interface that is perfect for both beginners and professionals.   

✅ This platform offers extensive customization options, including unique designs, logos, and colors, which can be tailored to your brand requirements.

✅ The QRCodeChimp dashboard allows users to edit their QR code content and change its destination URL as often as they like. This reduces reprinting costs and saves them time and effort.

✅ QRCodeChimp is GDPR compliant and SOC-2 Type II certified, meaning your account is fully secure and protected with multi-factor authentication.

Wrapping up

QR code redirection helps businesses save on the extra costs of regenerating and reprinting QR codes. QRCodeChimp makes the process easy for beginners and professionals alike.

Frequently asked questions