Using QR Codes to enhance your corrugated packaging

For decades, barcodes have been used on packaging, enabling products to be scanned quickly for stock purposes and ease of purchase at the till. But as technology develops, QR codes are increasingly being used to transform packaging into a hub of information, interaction, and intelligence. This evolution opens up exciting opportunities for customers and manufacturers alike.

From Barcodes to Next-Generation QR Codes

Traditional barcodes store a small amount of information—typically a 12-digit number that links to a product entry in a database – and read using a laser scanner. That’s sufficient for point-of-sale systems but not enough if the brand wants to include more information around traceability and sustainability or link to digital content to improve consumer engagement.

Industry groups, such as GS1, the global standards body behind barcodes, are driving a transition towards using QR codes. Unlike linear barcodes, QR codes can hold thousands of characters, enabling them to carry detailed product data directly or link seamlessly to digital content. Importantly, these QR codes are designed to be scanned both by consumers using smartphones and by retail systems at checkout, ensuring backward compatibility while opening new doors for engagement.

It must be noted that currently it is likely products will need to carry both a traditional barcode and a QR code to support the need for the different technologies needed to read either code. However it is worth considering the addition of the QR code to elevate your product offering.

Unlocking Consumer Engagement

For brands, the product delivery can be the first physical touchpoint with a shopper and certainly provides an exciting unboxing experience. Adding a scannable QR code can add a whole new level of information and experience to the product delivery. Consumers can scan to learn about:

• How to use the product
• Other products in the range
• Product specific offers
• Follow up subscription services
• Supporting information, eg recipes, hints and tips

With QR codes, seasonal promotions, loyalty rewards, or personalised content can be delivered instantly.

This dynamic capability is especially powerful in e-commerce packaging, where corrugated boxes arrive on the consumer’s doorstep. A printed QR code can direct customers to recycling instructions, re-order options, or customer support—providing an enhance level of customer service.

Supporting Transparency and Compliance

QR codes are also well-suited to meet growing regulatory and consumer demands for transparency. With the push toward additional regulation and detailed sustainability reporting, brands can use QR codes to disclose material composition, sourcing certifications, and end-of-life guidance.

For industries like food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods, QR codes can carry batch numbers, expiry dates, and traceability data, enhancing safety and trust. Corrugated packaging is able to carry the QR code throughout the supply chain.

Driving Efficiency in the Supply Chain

Beyond consumer engagement, QR codes add value behind the scenes. Warehouse operators, distributors, and retailers can use them to access detailed product information quickly, improving inventory management. The larger data capacity allows each individual item to carry unique identifiers, supporting serialisation and anti-counterfeiting initiatives.

For corrugated converters, this means delivering not just packaging but a data-enabled asset that integrates seamlessly into smart supply chains.

Preparing for the Future

Currently brands need to use both barcodes and QR codes to meet different needs and scanning technologies. However, early adopters will be well positioned to derive value from this innovative capability. By embracing next-generation QR codes now, packaging producers can offer customers the ability to merge physical packaging with the digital world—creating new opportunities for engagement, compliance, and efficiency.

The box has always been more than just a container. With QR codes, it becomes a communicator, a connector, and a catalyst for smarter packaging. 

 

James Palfrey-Smith is the Commercial Manager at ASC Direct with extensive experience in both operations and sales. James is passionate about solving packaging problems, delivering fast customer support, and building lasting relationships. Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. A fan of real ale and business podcasts, he continuously seeks personal and professional growth. 

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