How to Create QR Codes for Products That Never Expire (And Why Using Your Own Domain Is Key)
How to Create QR Codes for Products That Never Expire (And Why Using Your Own Domain Is Key)
Introduction
More and more brands are adopting QR codes on their labels to share additional product information: composition, origin, care instructions, certifications, and even brand storytelling.
But there is a problem that many small brands don't consider: what happens if the QR you print today stops working tomorrow?
Si estás pensando en imprimir miles de etiquetas con cĂłdigos QR, este artĂculo es para ti. Te explicamos cĂłmo hacerlo bien desde el principio para evitar problemas futuros.
The problem of "borrowed" QR codes
Imagina este escenario:
1.
You hire a platform to generate QR codes. They give you a link like `platform.com/product123`. You print it on 5,000 labels sewn into t-shirts.
2.
Two years later: The platform raises its prices abusively. Or you decide to change providers.
3.
Result: All those printed QRs now point to a broken link or a service you no longer use.
Your physical products are still circulating around the world, but the QRs are dead.
The solution: QR codes with your own domain
The only way to ensure your QR codes work forever is to use your own domain.
How it works:
1.
Buy a domain or use a subdomain of your brand (e.g., `info.yourbrand.com`).
2.
Configure that domain to point to your product management platform.
3.
Generate the QR pointing to `info.yourbrand.com/product/blue-tshirt`.
Key Advantage: The printed QR code always points to YOUR domain, not a third party's. If you change technology providers, you only have to redirect that domain to another server. The physical QR keeps working.
Static QR vs. Dynamic QR: Which one do you need?
Existen dos tipos principales de cĂłdigos QR:
1. Static QR
Contains the final URL directly (e.g., `yourbrand.com/product1`).
Once printed, you cannot change the destination.
Advantage: Works eternally, even if you stop paying for services.
Disadvantage: If you change the product URL, the QR doesn't work.
2. Dynamic QR
Contains an intermediate URL (e.g., `info.yourbrand.com/abc123`) that redirects to the final page.
You can change the destination without reprinting.
Advantage: Total flexibility. You can update content or change hosting.
Disadvantage: You depend on the intermediate domain remaining active.
Recommendation: Use dynamic QR with your own domain. This way you have flexibility AND total control.
How to configure a custom domain for your QRs (without being technical)
Although it sounds complicated, configuring a custom domain is simpler than it seems. Many SaaS platforms make it automatic:
Basic Steps:
1.
Buy or use a subdomain: If you already have `yourbrand.com`, create a subdomain like `info.yourbrand.com` or `products.yourbrand.com`.
2.
Configure DNS: Your SaaS platform will give you instructions (usually adding a CNAME record at your domain provider). It's copy and paste.
3.
Verify: Once configured, the platform verifies that the domain is yours and activates SSL (green security padlock).
4.
Generate your QRs: Now all QR codes point to your custom domain.
Total Time: 10-15 minutes (and you only do it once).
Real use cases: brands doing it right
Example 1: Sustainable Fashion Brand
Domain: `info.marcaropa.com`
Each garment carries a QR pointing to `info.marcaropa.com/spring2025/linen-dress`
The sheet includes: composition, origin, certifications, washing instructions, and a workshop video.
Example 2: Artisanal Carpenter
Domain: `muebles.artesano.es`
Each table carries a QR pointing to `muebles.artesano.es/mesa-roble-2024`
The sheet shows: wood type, finish, care, warranty, and repair option.
In both cases, if they change technology platforms, the QR still works because the domain is theirs.
Common mistakes when creating QR codes for products
❌ Error 1: Using generic URL shorteners (bit.ly, tinyurl). Problem: You don't control the link. If the service closes or changes policies, you lose the QRs.
❌ Error 2: Using the SaaS platform's domain (platform.com/youruser/product). Problem: If you stop paying or the platform closes, the QR dies.
❌ Error 3: Not using HTTPS. Problem: Modern browsers show security warnings, scaring away users.
âś… Solution: Use your own domain + HTTPS + flexible platform.
Additional advantages of using your own domain
Beyond permanence, using your own domain for QR codes has extra benefits:
Branding: The link is `yourbrand.com`, not `otherservice.com`. Reinforces brand identity.
Trust: Users recognize your domain and trust scanning it more.
SEO: Each product page indexed on your domain improves your web positioning.
Analytics: You can track scans, geographic origin, and user behavior.
Freedom: Change technology providers whenever you want without losing printed QRs.
Recommended tools to manage QR + custom domain
There are specialized SaaS platforms that facilitate this entire process:
Digital Product Passport: Platform designed for small brands that allows creating product sheets, generating QRs, and connecting custom domains without technical knowledge.
Other options include advanced e-commerce solutions or PIM (Product Information Management) systems, but they are usually more expensive and complex.
Conclusion
If you are going to print QR codes on your products, do it right from the start. Using your own domain is the only way to ensure those QRs work forever, regardless of technological changes, providers, or budgets.
Don't let your physical products carry "orphan" QRs that lead nowhere. Invest 15 minutes in configuring a custom domain and ensure the longevity of your digital strategy.
Ready to create professional QR codes with your own domain? Try our platform and configure your first permanent QR in minutes.