QR Code Gift Cards for POS Systems That Scan QR
Some POS systems read a QR code instead of a traditional barcode when a gift card is sold or redeemed. Shopify POS is the most common example. We print plastic gift cards with a unique QR code on each card, sized and placed so it scans on the first try, and we confirm the format against your system before printing.
QR Code vs Barcode Gift Cards
A barcode and a QR code do the same job on a gift card: they hold the card number so the register can look it up. The difference is what your scanner reads. Most retail scanners read 1D barcodes like Code 128. Camera-based scanners, tablets, and phone-based POS apps read QR codes. If your POS shows a square code on its gift card screen, you need QR cards. If it shows a striped bar, you need a barcode. See barcode gift cards.
Which POS Systems Use QR Gift Cards
- Shopify POS: gift cards issued through Shopify carry a QR code by default, scanned with the POS camera or a 2D scanner
- Tablet and phone-based POS apps that use the device camera
- Any system that exports gift card codes as alphanumeric strings too long for a clean 1D barcode
Not sure which your system uses? Send us a screenshot of your POS gift card screen and we'll tell you.
What's Inside the QR Code
Only the gift card number or code your POS assigns. No balance, no customer data, no link. We print the number in plain text under the QR code as well, so staff can type it if a scan fails. You supply the codes as an export from your POS, or we generate a sequential or random set and send you the list to import.
Print Specs
- 30 mil CR80 PVC, credit card size, full color both sides, edge to edge
- QR printed in solid black resin for sharp edges and reliable scanning
- Minimum QR size of 0.6 inch with a clear quiet zone, larger for long codes
- Error correction level set so minor scuffs still scan
- Human-readable code printed under every QR
- Your artwork or free design included
What We Verify Before Printing
- That your POS actually expects QR, not a 1D barcode
- Code length and character set, so the QR isn't too dense to scan
- Where the QR sits on the card so it doesn't fight your artwork
- A test scan of a proof against a camera scanner before the batch runs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Shopify POS gift cards need a QR code?
Yes. Shopify issues gift cards with a QR code and scans them with the POS camera or a 2D scanner. We print the QR from the codes your Shopify store exports.
Can a QR code gift card also have a barcode?
Yes. If your locations use different scanners, we can print both on the same card. Tell us and we'll lay it out so each scans cleanly.
Can you print QR codes on key tags?
Yes. Same process on 3-up key tags. See key tag printing.
What if the QR code doesn't scan?
Every proof is test-scanned before production, and if a printed card fails to scan in your POS, we reprint the order.
Related Resources
Compare Gift Card Types
Get QR Code Gift Cards Verified and Printed
Tell us your POS and quantity, or send a screenshot of your gift card screen. We'll confirm QR or barcode and send a proof. Response in minutes.
No obligation.