Local business · Last updated July 20, 2026

Storefront & Window QR Codes That Work From the Sidewalk

A window QR has to survive glass reflections, afternoon sun, and people who will not step into traffic to scan. Size and contrast do the heavy lifting.

Key takeaways

Use the distance rule: larger codes for sidewalk viewing (often 10–25 cm+ wide).
Fight glare with matte materials, placement angle, and oversized quiet zones.
Point to mobile-fast pages: menu, order-ahead, hours, waitlist, or promo.
Place near eye level on the walking path people actually use.
Export large high-contrast files — SVG or 2400px+ PNG.

What to open after the scan

Order-ahead or menu
Today’s hours / holiday schedule
Queue or reservations
Window-only promo landing page

Match the promise on the vinyl: if the sign says “15% off lunch,” the first screen must show that offer.

Size and height

Sidewalk at ~1–2 m: start around 10–15 cm code width; go larger when possible
Across a street or parking strip: scale aggressively or do not bother
Mount near natural pause points (door queue, menu board)

More numbers in the print size guide.

Glare and materials

Inside glass can double-reflect; test at the worst sun angle
Matte interior cling often beats glossy exterior stickers
Keep a solid white (or light) panel behind dark modules

Create a window-ready code

Finalize the mobile URL (with UTM if you measure foot traffic campaigns).
Generate in the tool with dark-on-light colors.
Download SVG or a large PNG.
Print a paper mock at full size; tape inside the window; scan from the sidewalk.
Only then order vinyl.

Download a large high-contrast QR free

Create free QR code

SVG or 2400–3600px PNG for windows.

FAQ

Should hours be in the QR or on the vinyl?

Both. Vinyl for at-a-glance; QR for full menu/order flows.

One code for all promotions?

Prefer a stable URL whose content you update, or accept reprints for major campaigns.

Create your storefront QR free