QR Code Generation & Distribution

🌱Growth5 minutes

QR Code Generation & Distribution

Tier: All Plans (Trial/Growth/Business)
Time: 5 minutes
Prerequisites: At least one property with a guidebook

Overview

QR codes are the easiest way for guests to access your digital guidebook. Simply print and place the QR code in your property, and guests can scan it with their phone's camera to instantly access all the information they need for their stay.

QR Code Page

What is a QR Code?

A QR (Quick Response) Code is a scannable barcode that links directly to your property's digital guidebook. When guests scan it with their smartphone camera, they're taken straight to your guidebook without needing to type a URL.

Benefits of Using QR Codes

✅ Instant Access - Guests scan and access guidebook in seconds
✅ No Typing - No long URLs to manually enter
✅ Universal - Works with any smartphone (iPhone, Android)
✅ Professional - Looks modern and tech-savvy
✅ Trackable - See how many guests access your guidebook
✅ Always Updated - QR code never changes, even if you update the guidebook

How to Access Your QR Code

Method 1: From Properties Page

  1. Go to Properties in the left sidebar
  2. Find your property in the list
  3. Click the "QR" button (next to "Edit Guidebook")

Method 2: From Dashboard

  1. In the Quick Actions section
  2. Look for QR code related shortcuts
  3. Select your property

Method 3: Direct URL

Visit: /dashboard/properties/{property-id}/qrcode

QR Code Page Elements

When you open the QR code page, you'll see:

Header Section

  • Property Name: Displayed at the top
  • Description: Instructions for guests
  • Action Buttons:
    • Print (purple button) - Opens print dialog
    • Download PNG - Saves QR code as image file

Main QR Code Display

  • Property Name as heading
  • Welcome Message: "Welcome to Your Stay"
  • Large QR Code: Centered, scannable
  • Scan Instructions: Step-by-step guide for guests

How to Access Section

Clear, numbered instructions:

  1. Open your phone's camera app
  2. Point it at the QR code
  3. Tap the notification to open

Property Address

Your property's full address displayed for guest reference

Backup URL

Full URL shown at the bottom in case QR code doesn't work

Footer

"Powered by GuestLoop" branding

Printing Your QR Code

Option 1: Direct Print

  1. Click the "Print" button at the top
  2. Your browser's print dialog opens
  3. Recommended Settings:
    • Paper Size: Letter (8.5" x 11")
    • Orientation: Portrait
    • Margins: None or Minimal
    • Color: Yes (colored border looks better)
    • Quality: High
  4. Click "Print" to send to printer

Print Options

Full Page QR Code (Recommended)

  • Prints one large QR code per page
  • Easy to scan from a distance
  • Perfect for walls or countertops
  • Print 1-2 copies per property

Multiple Per Page (Advanced)

  • Use browser zoom (Ctrl + -) before printing
  • Fit 2-4 QR codes per page
  • Good for multiple locations
  • Cut and place in different spots

Downloading Your QR Code

To Download:

  1. Click "Download PNG" button
  2. QR code saves as an image file to your Downloads folder
  3. Filename format: qrcode-{property-name}.png

What You Can Do With the PNG:

Include in Welcome Packets

  • Add to check-in instructions
  • Include in booking confirmations
  • Send via email before arrival

Create Custom Signage

  • Import into Canva or design tools
  • Add your branding
  • Create professional signs

Share Digitally

  • Send via text message
  • Include in emails
  • Post on social media

Print at Professional Print Shops

  • Upload to FedEx, Staples, VistaPrint
  • Print on canvas, acrylic, or metal
  • Create laminated table tents

Where to Place Your QR Code

Essential Locations (Print at Least 2)

1. Inside Front Door Frame or laminate and hang at eye level where guests first enter.

2. Kitchen Counter or Table Place in an acrylic stand or frame where guests naturally gather.

Additional Recommended Locations

3. Master Bedroom On nightstand or dresser for easy reference

4. Living Room On coffee table or entertainment center

5. Bathroom Near mirror or on counter (laminate for water resistance)

6. Entry/Mudroom By keypad or lockbox

7. Outdoor Areas Near hot tub, pool, or patio (weatherproof enclosure)

8. Guest Binder First page of your physical information binder

QR Code Best Practices

Size Matters

Minimum Size: 2" x 2" (5cm x 5cm)
Recommended: 4" x 4" to 6" x 6"
Maximum: Full page (8.5" x 11")

Rule of Thumb: The farther the scan distance, the larger the QR code should be.

Placement Tips

✅ Do:

  • Place at eye level (48"-60" from floor)
  • Ensure good lighting
  • Use flat, non-reflective surfaces
  • Keep area around QR code clear
  • Laminate for durability
  • Use frames or stands

❌ Don't:

  • Place in direct sunlight (fades)
  • Put on curved or wrinkled surfaces
  • Place too high or too low
  • Cover with glass that reflects light
  • Make too small to scan

Material Recommendations

For Indoor Use:

  • Regular printer paper (for short term)
  • Cardstock (more durable)
  • Laminated paper (water resistant)
  • Acrylic stands (professional look)

For Outdoor Use:

  • Laminated cardstock
  • Weatherproof plastic signs
  • Vinyl decals
  • Acrylic or metal signs

Creating Custom QR Code Signs

DIY Design Ideas

Simple Frame

  1. Download PNG
  2. Print on cardstock
  3. Add to 5x7" or 8x10" frame
  4. Place on counter

Table Tent

  1. Download PNG
  2. Create bifold design in Word/Canva
  3. Print and fold
  4. Place on table or counter

Laminated Card

  1. Download PNG
  2. Add text in photo editor: "Scan for WiFi & House Rules"
  3. Print and laminate at home
  4. Hang with command strips

Professional Signs (Recommended)

  1. Download high-res PNG
  2. Order from VistaPrint, Canva Print, or local shop:
    • Acrylic stand sign (5x7" or 8x10")
    • Metal wall sign
    • Vinyl window decal
    • Aluminum dibond sign
  3. Costs: $15-$40 depending on material

Testing Your QR Code

Before placing in property, always test:

Test Process

  1. Print or Display the QR code
  2. Open Camera App on your iPhone or Android
  3. Point Camera at QR code
  4. Wait for Notification to appear
  5. Tap Notification to open guidebook
  6. Verify All Sections load correctly

Troubleshooting Scan Issues

Problem: Phone doesn't recognize QR code

✅ Solutions:

  • Make sure QR code is flat, not wrinkled
  • Improve lighting in the area
  • Hold phone 6-12 inches away
  • Ensure camera lens is clean
  • Try a different phone

Problem: Wrong guidebook opens

✅ Solutions:

  • Regenerate QR code from dashboard
  • Clear browser cache
  • Reprint with new QR code

Problem: "Link is broken" message

✅ Solutions:

Advanced: Multiple QR Codes

Same Property, Different Messages

You can create custom signs with the same QR code but different messaging:

"WiFi Password Inside"
Place near entry - emphasizes instant WiFi access

"House Rules & Local Recommendations"
Place in living area - highlights useful info

"Check-Out Instructions"
Place in bedroom - reminds guests of departure info

"Scan for Help"
Place anywhere - emergency contact access

Backup Options If QR Doesn't Work

Always provide a backup for guests:

1. Short URL (Coming Soon)

Instead of:
http://guestloop.com/g/b5a4e896-3261-4e20-b9f4-4bf90b0d0477

Use:
guestloop.com/guide/yourproperty (custom short link)

2. Text Message Link

Send the direct link via SMS when guest checks in

3. Printed Instructions

Include the URL in your physical welcome binder

4. Booking Confirmation

Email the guidebook link before arrival

Common Questions

Q: Does the QR code expire?

A: No! Your QR code is permanent. Even if you update your guidebook content, the QR code stays the same.

Q: Can I customize the QR code design?

A: The QR code itself can't be changed (it's standardized), but you can customize the surrounding design, colors, and text when you create your own signs.

Q: How many times can the QR code be scanned?

A: Unlimited! There's no limit to how many times guests can scan it.

Q: Do guests need an app to scan?

A: No! The built-in camera app on all modern smartphones (iPhone and Android) can scan QR codes automatically.

Q: What if I have multiple properties?

A: Each property has its own unique QR code. Generate and print separately for each property.

Q: Can I email the QR code to guests?

A: Yes! Download the PNG and attach it to your booking confirmation emails. Guests can scan it from their laptop screen if they're near the property.

Q: Will the QR code work without WiFi?

A: Guests need an internet connection to load the guidebook. The QR code itself doesn't require WiFi, but the webpage it opens does. Recommend guests connect to cellular data first.

Q: Can I track how many people scan the QR code?

A: Analytics show guidebook views, but specific QR code scan tracking is coming soon!

Measuring Success

Key Metrics to Track

Guidebook Access Rate Goal: 80%+ of guests access guidebook

Time to First Access Ideally within first 30 minutes of check-in

Return Visits Guests accessing guidebook multiple times during stay

Question Reduction Fewer texts/calls asking for WiFi password, check-out time, etc.

What's Next?

Now that you have your QR code:

  1. ✅ Test the Guest Experience
  2. ✅ Import Your First Booking (Growth+)
  3. ✅ Send Welcome SMS (Growth+)
  4. ✅ Customize Guidebook Branding (Growth+)

Creative QR Code Ideas

Guest Engagement

"Scan & Win" Add text: "Scan for a chance to win a free night on your next stay!"

"Secret Local Tips" Create intrigue: "Scan for local secrets the tourists don't know"

"Leave a Review" After checkout: "Scan to share your experience"

Multiple Languages

Create signs in multiple languages:

  • English: "Scan for House Guide"
  • Spanish: "Escanear para guía de la casa"
  • French: "Scanner pour le guide"
  • German: "Scannen für den Reiseführer"

(Growth+ tier has auto-translation!)

Need Help?

A well-placed QR code = Informed guests + Fewer questions + Better reviews! 📱✨

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QR Code Generation & Distribution | GuestLoop Help Center