What is a UTM QR code?
A UTM QR code is a trackable dynamic QR code that includes UTM parameters, allowing marketers to track traffic acquisition and user behavior.
When users scan the QR code, the included UTM tags send specific data to Google Analytics, providing valuable insights into a campaign’s performance through QR code tracking.
Why use UTM QR codes for tracking?
If you want to track QR codes and traffic from offline campaigns effectively, UTM QR codes are essential.
Unlike traditional QR codes, they contain UTM parameters that fine-tune analytics and improve website’s performance tracking.
Marketers can customize these codes to segment traffic from different offline communication tools like flyers, brochures, or even NFC tags.
How UTM parameters work in QR codes
UTM parameters are tags added to URLs to track session sources in analytics tools. A QR code with UTM codes captures key data points such as campaign source, medium, and content. These parameters allow marketers to track how users engage with a campaign and optimize their strategy.
Benefits of using UTM QR codes
1. Improved campaign performance tracking
By using UTM tags, you can measure a QR code campaign’s performance and track traffic effectively.
2. Enhanced data collection
UTM QR codes help gather user acquisition data, providing insights into how visitors interact with marketing materials.
3. Better attribution for offline marketing
Trackable QR codes bridge the gap between offline campaigns and digital analytics, ensuring accurate campaign tracking.
How to create a UTM QR code
Step 1: Generate a URL with UTM parameters
Use a UTM code generator to add UTM parameters such as campaign source, medium, and content to your URL.
Step 2: Shorten the URL
When you add the URL with UTM parameters to our system, we automatically shorten it for you and embed it in your QR code.
Step 3: Generate the QR code
Use a QR code generator to create a scannable QR with the UTM-tagged URL.
Step 4: Test and edit if necessary
Scan the QR code, check the analytics tool, and fine-tune the parameters if needed.
Best practices for UTM QR codes
1. Use meaningful UTM parameter names
Ensure the UTM tags accurately describe the source, medium, and campaign name to avoid confusion.
2. Customize the QR code design
Adding branding elements can make the QR code more appealing and increase scan rates.
3. Track and analyze performance regularly
Tracking QR codes is essential to evaluate the campaign’s impact and make necessary adjustments. Regularly check Google Analytics to monitor the performance of QR codes effectively.
Tracking QR code campaign performance with Google Analytics
To track traffic from QR codes, go to Google Analytics and navigate to the “Traffic Acquisition” section. Here, you can analyze data such as session sources, users, and website traffic originating from your trackable QR codes.
Using UTM QR codes for offline campaigns
Offline marketing materials such as posters, business cards, and print ads can benefit from UTM QR codes. By embedding UTM tags in QR codes, you can track how offline audiences engage with your digital content.
QR codes vs. NFC tags for tracking
While QR codes are easy to generate and use, NFC tags offer an alternative tracking method. However, QR codes remain more versatile since they work across all smartphone cameras without additional hardware.
Common mistakes when using UTM QR codes
1. Not customizing UTM parameters
Failing to manage parameters properly can lead to tracking errors in Google Analytics.
2. Using a long, complex URL
A shortened URL ensures a cleaner, more accessible QR code for users.
3. Forgetting to test the QR code
Always scan and check the UTM QR code before launching a campaign.
Advanced strategies for UTM QR codes
For more precise tracking, integrate UTM QR codes with advertising platforms like Google Ads (CPC campaigns) or an advanced analytics tool.
Additionally, before implementing the URL in your QR code generator (we recommend QR Code KIT!), it’s best practice to set up a spreadsheet with a dropdown menu with all the different options for source, medium, campaign, etc. to simplify UTM customization.
Conclusion
UTM QR codes are a powerful tool for tracking marketing campaign performance and improving traffic acquisition insights.
By adding UTM parameters to QR codes, businesses can effectively track users, fine-tune their strategy, and enhance website’s performance. Whether for offline campaigns or digital promotions, trackable QR codes offer a seamless way to collect valuable data and optimize marketing efforts.
