Ever scanned a QR code on a box and ended up on a promo page, video, or app? Just like that, you're in—connected to the brand in seconds. Small square. Big impact. That’s smart packaging in action.
More and more brands are waking up to the power of QR code printing. It’s a launchpad for interaction, info, and insight. Fast, affordable, and surprisingly effective. Let’s unpack why QR code printing in smart packaging is getting all the buzz—and how it’s reshaping the consumer journey.
Smart packaging refers to any form of packaging that adds digital functionality to the physical product. We're talking printed barcodes, QR codes, RFID chips, or NFC tags – basically anything that bridges the gap between the thing you hold and the online world (think videos, data, experiences).
QR codes? They're popping up everywhere. Retailers and online sellers are using barcode printers to create custom 2D codes—often with brand logos or slogans—and placing them on boxes, bottles, wrappers, and other packaging. Scan with your phone – no app needed, no fuss – and dive into videos, promos, or the nitty-gritty on the product. Easy peasy.
Traditional 1D barcodes (like UPC or EAN) are used to identify products and display static information. They are great for scanning SKUs at checkout. But when it comes to delivering content or engaging users? Not so much.
That’s where QR codes in smart packaging shine. They carry more data, turn every package into a digital entry point—a two-way street between the brand and its audience.
Interestingly, most packaging codes today are dynamic QR codes—and for good reason. They let brands update linked content anytime, even after printing. These printed QR code labels—applied to boxes, bottles, pouches, and more—help brands achieve:
Got a recall? No problem. Dynamic QR codes let you link every product to batch-level or even item-level data. Scan the code, and customers—or suppliers—can see real-time status, safety info, or recall alerts.
Consumers are curious. They want to know where their food comes from, whether their shampoo is cruelty-free, or how to recycle that plastic pouch.
With a simple scan, you can:
A great example is KitKat (Nestlé). The brand prints QR codes on its packaging that link to nutrition facts, allergy info, and customer feedback forms. It’s a smart way to use packaging space and keep content up to date.
Want to know when and where your products are being scanned? Dynamic QR codes track:
Now you're not just printing labels - you're collecting data gold.
Forget cluttered packaging. One QR code can link to digital manuals, recycling guides, and compliance docs. That’s fewer inserts and less waste. Mother Earth approves.
In addition, these tiny squares tolerate minor damage, and are easily scannable from various angles—perfect for smart packaging in retail, healthcare, food, cosmetics, and beyond.
Heard of the GS1 Digital Link barcode? It’s also a key standard in smart packaging, helping brands create more unified and efficient digital connections.
GS1 Digital Link is a next-generation 2D code format—similar to a QR code or Data Matrix—built on global GS1 standards. It embeds product identifiers—like the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN)—into a web-readable URL.
With just one scan, it functions both as a POS barcode at checkout and a gateway to digital content—connecting consumers to brand websites, user guides, traceability info, and more. No apps. No friction.
In other words, a single code does it all, including:
By 2027 (yes, there's a deadline), major retailers and manufacturers are expected to adopt GS1 Digital Link as the new norm. It's being dubbed "Sunrise 2027."
Without a doubt, GS1 Digital Link is quickly emerging as a cornerstone technology in smart packaging, powering the shift toward more connected, interactive, and data-rich product experiences.
Smart packaging starts with reliable, high-quality QR code printing.
iDPRT offers a range of barcode and QR code printers—including desktop, mobile, and industrial models, support different packaging environments and production scales.
Our direct thermal and thermal transfer models, help generate clear and scannable QR code labels on product surfaces, outer plastic bags, kraft pouches, corrugated boxes, and more.
From home businesses and small e-commerce brands to food and personal care manufacturers, iDPRT delivers practical barcode and QR code printing solutions for smart, interactive labeling.
Built for long-term reliability with minimal downtime—ideal for daily packaging operations.
Prints crisp QR codes, barcodes, fine text, and graphics quickly and accurately on thermal paper, coated paper, PET film, and synthetic labels—ensuring every label is sharp and easy to scan.
Compatible with standard 1D/2D codes, including GS1, QR Code, and Data Matrix—ready for use in retail, healthcare, food, cosmetics, and logistics.
Works with BarTender as well as iDPRT’s proprietary label software, enabling dynamic QR code generation for traceability, serialization, and marketing customization.
USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a range of print languages ensure plug-and-play compatibility with your existing packaging lines, ERP systems, and labeling workflows.
Smart packaging has moved beyond theory—it’s making real impact on how people interact with products. iDPRT’s QR code printing solutions support businesses of all sizes, helping transform every package into a smart, connected experience.
Print high-quality QR code labels that drive engagement and traceability.
