How to read a QR code generator’s terms before you print
Whether a printed QR code keeps working for years is decided long before you print it, in a terms page most people never open. Here are the seven clauses to read, and what good and bad versions look like.
This only matters for dynamic codes. A static code stores its destination in the pattern and doesn’t depend on anyone’s terms. A dynamic code routes every scan through the provider’s server, so the provider’s terms decide how long it lasts. Not sure which you need? Start with the static vs dynamic comparison.
Where to find the clauses
Open the provider’s Terms of Service and search the page (Ctrl+F or Cmd+F) for: cancel, terminat, inactiv, limit, suspend, discontinu, export and lifetime. Check the pricing page and help center too; limits are often stated there rather than in the terms.
Warning
The seven clauses
1. Cancellation and downgrades
Look for: What happens to existing codes when you cancel, downgrade or miss a payment, and when it takes effect.
Red flag: “Codes will be deactivated upon cancellation.” “Dynamic features are available on paid plans only.”
Good sign: Codes stay active regardless of billing status, or existing codes are kept running after a downgrade.
2. Inactivity
Look for: Whether accounts or codes can be disabled if you don’t log in for a period.
Red flag: “Inactive accounts may be suspended or deleted.” No stated time period.
Good sign: No inactivity rule for codes, or a clearly stated period with advance notice by email.
3. Scan limits and fair use
Look for: Monthly scan caps, and what happens when a code exceeds them.
Red flag: “Redirects may be paused when plan limits are reached.” Vague “fair use” clauses with no numbers.
Good sign: Unlimited scans stated plainly, or a published limit with what happens at it.
4. Changes to plans and pricing
Look for: Whether the provider can change or retire your plan, and what that does to codes already printed.
Red flag: “We may modify or discontinue any plan at any time.” With no protection for existing codes.
Good sign: Existing purchases keep their terms, or changes don’t apply retroactively to codes you already own.
5. Shutdown and continuity
Look for: What happens to redirects if the company closes, is acquired or retires its short-link domain.
Red flag: Nothing at all. Silence here means you have no protection.
Good sign: A notice period, a minimum period of continued redirects, and a data export.
6. Data export
Look for: Whether you can download your code list, destinations and scan history.
Red flag: No export, or export only on higher tiers.
Good sign: Full export of short links, destinations and analytics, available on any plan.
7. Domain ownership
Look for: Whose domain the short links use, and whether you can bring your own.
Red flag: Provider domain only, with no custom domain option.
Good sign: Support for your own domain, so you can re-point it to another provider if you ever leave.
Watch how “lifetime” is defined
“Lifetime” almost never means your lifetime or forever. It usually means the lifetime of the product or service, and many providers add a cap. Find the definition and read it before you rely on the word.
Honest Advice
A quick scorecard
Count how many of the seven clauses land on the “good sign” side:
- 6–7: suitable for packaging, signage and anything printed for years.
- 4–5: fine for short campaigns; export your data regularly.
- 3 or fewer: treat every printed code as temporary.
Next steps
Reading the terms is step two of five. For the full setup, including protecting the redirect domain and testing a printed sample, see how to set up a QR code generator that does not expire. Already on a subscription and thinking of leaving? Read what happens to your QR codes when you cancel before you do.
Still Not Sure?
Every use case is unique. If you need honest advice on whether to use a free static code or invest in a dynamic lifetime asset, our team is here to help.
