STATIC QR WORKSHOP
SMS QR Code Generator
Make a QR code that opens a text message with your number and a ready-made message filled in. The person scanning just presses Send — ideal for bookings, sign-ups and quick feedback.
- Number & message pre-filled
- Works without an app
- Made in your browser
- PNG & SVG
What happens when someone scans it
An SMS QR code holds a phone number and an optional message in the SMSTO: format, for example SMSTO:+15550102030:Book a table for two. A phone that reads it offers to open the messaging app with a new text to that number and the message already typed. Nothing is sent until the person presses Send, and they can edit the text first.
The SMSTO: format is the one most QR generators and scanner apps use for text messages. It is not part of an official standard, so before printing a large run, test the code with the iPhones and Android phones your audience is likely to use.
How to fill in each field
Send to
The number that will receive the message, in international format with a plus sign and country code, such as +1 555 010 2030. Spaces, dashes and brackets are removed for you. Short codes (for example a five-digit number used for a campaign) also work for people in the same country.
Message
The text that appears ready to send. Keep it short and specific so you can recognise and sort replies: “BOOK 2 FRI 7PM”, “JOIN newsletter” or “Feedback table 12:”. A single text message holds 160 plain characters; longer messages, or messages with emoji and some accented letters, may be split into several parts, and the generator warns you when you pass 160 characters.
Ideas that work well
- Opt-in keywords. A poster code that sends “JOIN” to your marketing number. Follow the consent rules that apply to text-message marketing where you operate.
- Bookings and call-backs. “Please call me back about a quote” on a van or a shop window.
- Feedback. A code on each table with “Table 12:” pre-filled, so you know where the message came from.
- Check-ins and reporting. “Room 204 needs cleaning” or “Printer B jammed” on a sticker, sent to a facilities number.
- Voting and competitions at live events, with the answer pre-filled.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting the country code on material that visitors from other countries will see.
- Using a landline that cannot receive texts. Send a test message to the number before printing.
- Expecting automatic sending. A QR code can prepare a message but can never send it for the user.
- Long messages. They make the code denser and may cost the sender more than one message on some plans.
- Changing numbers. The number is part of the code; a new number needs a new code.
SMS, WhatsApp or email?
Text messages work on every phone without an app or internet connection, which makes them the most universal choice. If your customers mostly use WhatsApp, a WhatsApp QR code opens a chat instead. For longer requests with attachments, an email QR code is better.
Questions
Does scanning the code send the text message?
No. It opens a new message with the number and text filled in. The person scanning can edit it and decides whether to press Send.
Does it work on iPhone and Android?
Most iPhone and Android cameras recognise SMS codes and offer to open the messaging app. The SMSTO format is widely used but not an official standard, so test your printed code on the phones your audience uses.
How long can the message be?
Keep it under 160 characters so it fits in one text message. Longer messages still work but may be split into several parts and make the code denser.
Can I use a short code?
Yes. Five- or six-digit short codes work for people in the same country, which is how most opt-in campaigns run.
Can the code send to several numbers?
No. One code addresses one number, which is what phones expect from this format.
Is anything I type uploaded?
No. The code is made in your browser; your number and message never leave your device.