6 min read
QR codes on business cards: size, content and placement
A business-card QR code can share a short website link or contact card. The small card format makes content length, quiet zone and print quality especially important.
Keep the code simple
A short URL creates a less dense pattern than a long contact record. A vCard can save contact details offline, but every extra field increases the amount of data in the code.
Only include details you are comfortable sharing on every copy of the card. Printed personal information can be photographed, copied or forwarded.
Make room on the card
Leave the full quiet zone around the code and enough margin from the card edge. Do not let a logo cover finder patterns or crowd the code.
A 3 cm code is a useful starting point for some cards, not a universal requirement. The final size depends on density, stock, print method and scan distance.
Test the finished layout
Export the final placed artwork and decode it, then print one proof at actual size. Scan with more than one phone in ordinary light before ordering the full run.
In short: A shorter payload and a clear physical margin help the card remain easy to scan.