SMS QR Code Generator
One scan to send a pre-filled text message
Free account includes unlimited static codes + 1 trackable dynamic code
SMS QR Codes by the Numbers
of text messages are opened within 3 minutes
Mobile Marketing Association
response rate for SMS marketing vs 6% for email
Gartner Research
average time from scan to message sent
User experience data
of consumers prefer texting over calling for business
Twilio Research
Why We're Different
What is an SMS QR Code?
An SMS QR code opens the user's messaging app with a pre-filled phone number and message. When someone scans the code, their default texting app launches with your specified recipient and message text already entered—they just tap send.
SMS QR codes use the standardized sms: URI scheme that all smartphones recognize. This means the code works on any iPhone or Android device without requiring a special app. The user's native messaging app handles everything.
Unlike web-based forms or contact codes, SMS QR codes leverage the immediate, personal nature of text messaging. With 98% of texts read within 3 minutes, SMS QR codes offer one of the fastest ways to connect with your audience.
Why Your Business Needs an SMS QR Code
Build Your SMS List Without Friction
Building an SMS subscriber list traditionally requires customers to remember a keyword, text it to a short code, and wait for confirmation. Each step loses potential subscribers. A pre-filled SMS QR code eliminates all friction—customers scan, see a ready-to-send message like 'JOIN', and tap send. The entire opt-in process takes under 5 seconds.
The value of that SMS list is substantial. SMS campaigns see a 98% open rate compared to email's 20%, and response rates of 45% versus email's 6%. Customers who opt in via your QR code become part of your most engaged marketing channel. Place QR codes at checkout counters, on product packaging, or on table tents to capture subscribers at the moment they're most engaged.
Instant Customer Support With Zero Wait Time
90% of consumers prefer texting over calling for business communication. Yet most companies still force customers through phone trees and hold queues. An SMS QR code printed on product packaging, receipts, or signage lets customers text your support team instantly—no waiting, no navigating phone menus.
Pre-filled messages like 'Order #[number] - Need help with:' give your support team immediate context. Customers don't have to explain their situation from scratch, and agents can handle multiple text conversations simultaneously—far more efficiently than phone calls. SMS customer service can reduce support costs by up to 60%.
Reduce Appointment No-Shows by 40%
No-shows cost healthcare providers, salons, and service businesses thousands annually. The primary reason people miss appointments? Forgetfulness. SMS reminders solve this—and SMS QR codes make confirmation effortless. Print a QR code on appointment cards that opens a pre-filled 'Confirm' or 'Reschedule' message.
Clinics implementing SMS appointment reminders have reduced no-shows by 40% and improved patient satisfaction. The key is removing friction: instead of asking patients to call to confirm, they scan and tap. The response rate for SMS confirmations far exceeds email or phone-based systems.
Flash Sales That Create Urgency
Flash sales thrive on urgency, and no channel delivers urgency like SMS. With 90% of text messages read within 3 minutes, an SMS QR code on in-store signage, print ads, or event materials can drive immediate action. Pre-fill a message like 'FLASH: I want the 20% off deal' to capture interest the moment customers see your promotion.
Retailers using SMS flash sale alerts see significant sales increases compared to similar past promotions. The combination of QR code convenience and SMS immediacy creates a powerful conversion path. Customers see the offer, scan the code, text to claim it, and receive an instant discount code—all within 30 seconds.
Turn Transactions Into Relationships
57% of loyal customers spend more with brands they trust, making loyalty programs essential for sustainable revenue growth. But traditional enrollment—filling out forms, downloading apps, creating accounts—loses customers at every step. An SMS QR code with a pre-filled 'LOYALTY: Sign me up for rewards' message captures members instantly.
Coffee shops sending personalized SMS messages to loyalty members offering double points have seen 25% boosts in weekly sales. The key is frictionless enrollment followed by relevant, value-driven communication. SMS loyalty messages see 45% response rates because customers have already opted in—they want to hear from you.
How SMS QR Codes Store Data
SMS QR codes use the standard sms: URI scheme that all mobile devices recognize. Here's how the data is structured:
sms:+1234567890?body=Hello%20from%20QR%20code| Parameter | Example | Description |
|---|---|---|
sms: | +1234567890 | The recipient phone number. Include country code (e.g., +1 for US) for international compatibility. |
body | Hello from QR code | Pre-filled message text. Spaces are URL-encoded as %20. Users can edit before sending. |
Advantages of SMS QR Codes
Highest Open Rate
98% of text messages are opened within 3 minutes. No other communication channel comes close to this engagement level.
Pre-Filled Convenience
Remove all friction from customer communication. Users scan, review the message, and tap send—no typing required.
Works Offline
The SMS data is encoded directly in the QR pattern. Users can scan anywhere; the message queues and sends when they have signal.
Universal Device Support
Works on every smartphone with the built-in camera app. Opens the native messaging app—no third-party apps or accounts needed.
Trackable Results
While the QR code itself doesn't track scans, every completed action results in a text you receive. Easy to measure campaign success.
How to Create a SMS QR Code
Enter the phone number
Add the phone number that will receive the texts. Include country code for international numbers.
Write your pre-filled message
Add the default message users will see. Keep it short and clear. Users can edit before sending.
Preview your QR code
The QR code updates as you type. Scan with your phone to test the full experience.
Download your QR code
Download as PNG for screens or SVG for printing. No signup needed.
Display and promote
Add to marketing materials, packaging, or signage. Include a brief call-to-action near the code.
SMS QR Code Best Practices
Keep Pre-Filled Messages Short and Clear
Your pre-filled message should accomplish its purpose in as few words as possible. 'JOIN' works better than 'Yes I would like to join your SMS marketing list'. Customers can always add context, but they shouldn't have to delete text you pre-filled. Aim for messages under 50 characters that clearly indicate the action.
Always allow users to edit the message before sending. Pre-filled text is a convenience, not a requirement. For support QR codes, leave space for customers to describe their issue: 'Order help: [describe issue]'. Test your QR codes on both iPhone and Android—the pre-filled text should appear identically on both platforms.
Include Country Codes for International Compatibility
Always include the full country code in your phone number (e.g., +1 for US, +44 for UK). Without it, customers traveling internationally or using phones with different regional settings may fail to send the message. The extra characters are invisible to the user but ensure your QR code works globally.
Test your SMS QR code with the actual receiving number before printing. Some carriers handle international formatting differently. If you're using a short code for marketing opt-ins, verify it works with the standard sms: URI format.
Ensure TCPA Compliance for Marketing Messages
If your SMS QR code is for marketing opt-ins, TCPA compliance is non-negotiable. Fines range from $500 to $1,500 per message sent without proper consent. Your QR code signage must include clear disclosure: what messages they'll receive, approximate frequency, and that message and data rates may apply.
The pre-filled message itself can serve as explicit written consent if properly worded. Include that customers agree to receive promotional texts, that message frequency varies, and that they can reply STOP to unsubscribe. Always implement immediate STOP keyword processing—regulations require processing opt-outs within 24 hours.
Place QR Codes Where Customers Have Time and Intent
The best SMS QR code placement catches customers when they have their phone accessible and a reason to engage. Product packaging works because customers are handling both the product and their phone. Waiting rooms work because customers have time. Checkout counters work because customers already have phones out for payment.
Avoid placements where scanning feels intrusive or awkward. Test scan rates at different locations—a QR code at the register might outperform one at the entrance by 10x. Use dynamic QR codes if possible to track which placements drive actual engagement.
Combine QR Codes with Keyword Fallbacks
Not everyone can scan QR codes. Older phones, camera issues, or visual impairments can prevent scanning. Always include a text-based alternative: 'Scan or text JOIN to 55555'. This redundancy ensures you capture every potential subscriber, regardless of their technical situation.
The keyword should match your pre-filled message for consistency. If the QR code pre-fills 'FLASH20' for a discount, the text instruction should say 'Text FLASH20 to 55555'. This inclusive approach maximizes conversion while demonstrating respect for customers with accessibility needs.
Why Use Our SMS QR Code Generator?
Popular Use Cases
Marketing Campaigns
Let customers text a keyword to join your list or get a discount code.
Customer Support
Print on packaging so customers can easily text for help with their order.
Event RSVPs
Add to invitations so guests can text their response in seconds.
Appointment Reminders
Let patients text to confirm or reschedule appointments.
SMS QR Codes by Industry
For Retail & E-commerce
SMS Marketing Opt-In
Display QR codes in-store that let customers text a keyword to join your SMS list. Pre-fill 'JOIN' as the message for instant list building with zero friction.
Order Support
Print QR codes on packing slips with pre-filled text like 'Order #12345 - Need help with:'. Customers can quickly reach support with their order context included.
For Events & Entertainment
RSVP Collection
Include SMS QR codes on invitations. Guests scan and send 'Yes' or 'No' instantly. Much faster than web forms and works even with spotty WiFi.
Text-to-Vote
Display QR codes on screens during live events for audience participation. Pre-fill voting options and collect real-time responses.
For Healthcare
Appointment Confirmation
Send appointment cards with QR codes that let patients text 'Confirm' or 'Reschedule'. Reduces no-shows by making confirmation effortless.
Prescription Refills
Print QR codes on medication bottles. Patients scan to text refill requests with their prescription number pre-filled.
For Real Estate
Property Inquiry
Add QR codes to yard signs with pre-filled text like 'Interested in 123 Main St'. Capture leads from drive-by traffic instantly.
Schedule Showings
Include on listing flyers so buyers can text to request a showing. Pre-fill the property address to track which listings generate interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the SMS QR code work on iPhone?
Yes. iPhones open the Messages app with your pre-filled number and message. Users just tap send.
Can I pre-fill both the number and message?
Yes. You can set the phone number and a default message that appears when the user scans.
Do SMS QR codes expire?
No. SMS QR codes are static and never expire. They encode the phone number and message directly in the pattern.
Does the user get charged for the text?
Standard SMS rates apply based on the user's phone plan. The QR code itself is free to create and scan.
Can I track who scans my SMS QR code?
The QR code itself doesn't track scans. However, you'll see incoming texts from people who complete the action.