---
type: faq
title: "What should I do if my QR code doesn't scan properly?"
description: "A QR code that will not scan must be rebuilt before printing; fix low resolution, tiny size, weak contrast or a crowded quiet zone, then test on phones."
resource: https://www.4over4.com/faqs/prepress-files/what-should-i-do-if-my-qr-code-doesn-t-scan-properly
tags: ["Printing Terms Glossary", "faq"]
generated:
  by: "process:4over4-mapp-build"
  at: 2026-10-20T21:01:19.542Z
timestamp: 2026-10-20T21:01:19.542Z
sources:
  - resource: https://www.4over4.com/faqs/prepress-files/what-should-i-do-if-my-qr-code-doesn-t-scan-properly
    title: "What should I do if my QR code doesn't scan properly?"
status: stable
---

# What should I do if my QR code doesn't scan properly?

If a QR code will not scan reliably, it has to be corrected before the job can print, since a code that does not function defeats its purpose. The fix is to rebuild the code in your file and resubmit. Common reasons a code fails to scan and how to avoid them: Low resolution: build the code and all images at 300 DPI or greater Too small: keep the code large enough for a phone camera to lock on Low contrast: use a dark code on a light background, not the reverse Tight quiet zone: leave clear space around the code so nothing crowds it Always test the finished code with a couple of phones before you resubmit the file.

A QR code that will not scan must be rebuilt before printing; fix low resolution, tiny size, weak contrast or a crowded quiet zone, then test on phones.

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