Getting Started
SmartStickerz lets you create QR code stickers that link to any content — and you can update what they link to at any time without reprinting.
Generate — Create a QR code and choose your content type (URL, contact card, WiFi, etc.).
Print — Download a print-ready PDF and print stickers on label sheets or plain paper.
Stick — Apply your QR stickers wherever you need them.
Scan — Anyone can scan the code with their phone camera to access the content.
Update — Change the content anytime using your Security Key — no reprinting needed.
Configuring a Pre-Printed Sticker
If you received pre-printed QR stickers (e.g., from a bulk pack), here's how to set them up:
Scan the QR code on the sticker with your phone camera.
The landing page will show a "not yet configured" message. Tap the Edit button.
Log in or create an account if prompted.
Enter your Security Key (format: XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX). Find it on the Security Keys Reference sheet that came with your stickers.
Choose your content type (URL, contact card, WiFi, etc.) and fill in the details.
Tap Save — your sticker is now active!
Finding Your Security Key
Your Security Key is a 16-character code in the format XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX. You need it to edit or update your QR code's content.
I created the QR code myself
Your Security Key was displayed on screen after generating the QR code. If you saved it:
- Check the Security Keys Reference page at the end of your downloaded PDF.
- Check the CSV file if you downloaded one during bulk generation.
- Look in your portal (My QR Codes) — click a QR code to see its details.
I received pre-printed stickers
Your stickers came with a Security Keys Reference sheet. To match a sticker to its key:
- Look at the last 8 characters printed below the QR code on the sticker.
- Find the matching QR ID on the reference sheet.
- The Security Key is listed next to it (highlighted in yellow).
I lost my Security Key
For security, Security Keys cannot be recovered once lost. If you own the QR code (it's linked to your account), you can view and manage it from your portal.
If you don't have access, you'll need to generate a new QR code.
Content Types
SmartStickerz supports a variety of content types. Choose the one that fits your use case:
Clearing Your Browser Cache
After editing a QR code's content, your phone may still show the old content due to browser caching. Here's how to clear it:
Safari on iPhone
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap Apps, then tap Safari.
- Scroll down and tap Clear History and Website Data.
- Confirm by tapping Clear History.
- Scan the QR code again.
Chrome on iPhone
- Open Chrome and tap the three dots (⋯) at the bottom.
- Tap Settings → Privacy and Security.
- Tap Clear Browsing Data.
- Select Cached Images and Files.
- Tap Clear Browsing Data and confirm.
- Scan the QR code again.
Chrome on Android
- Open Chrome and tap the three dots (⋮) at the top right.
- Tap Settings → Privacy and Security.
- Tap Clear Browsing Data.
- Select Cached images and files.
- Tap Clear data.
- Scan the QR code again.
QR Code Not Scanning?
If your QR code isn't scanning, try these tips:
- • Clean the sticker — Wipe off any dirt, moisture, or smudges.
- • Improve lighting — Make sure the sticker is well-lit. Avoid glare and shadows.
- • Hold steady & focus — Hold your phone about 6–10 inches away and let the camera focus.
- • Check sticker size — Very small stickers (under ½") may be difficult for some cameras to read. Try moving closer.
- • Try a QR reader app — If your default camera doesn't scan it, try a dedicated QR scanner app from your app store.
- • Check for damage — If the sticker is torn, faded, or partially covered, the QR code may not be readable.
Printing & Label Alignment
SmartStickerz generates print-ready PDFs for standard label sheets. Follow these tips for best results:
Supported Templates
Print Settings
- • Always print at 100% / Actual Size. Do not use "Fit to Page" or "Shrink to Fit" — this will misalign labels.
- • Set paper size to US Letter (8.5" × 11").
- • Test on plain paper first. Hold it up against a label sheet to check alignment before using expensive labels.
- • If labels are slightly off, check your printer's margin settings or try the "borderless" print option.
Account & Login
How do I create an account?
Go to the login page and click "Sign up". You'll need an email address and password. A free trial account lets you create 1 QR code to try out the service.
I forgot my password
On the login page, click "Forgot password?" and enter your email address. You'll receive a password reset link (valid for 1 hour).
Do I need an account to scan QR codes?
No. Anyone can scan a SmartStickerz QR code — no account or app required. An account is only needed to create or edit QR codes.
What's the difference between trial and paid accounts?
Trial accounts can create 1 QR code for free. Paid accounts can create unlimited QR codes and access all features. You can upgrade at any time from the upgrade page.
Troubleshooting
"This code needs to be configured"
This means the QR code was created but no content has been set yet. Tap the Edit button, log in, enter the Security Key, and configure the content. See Configuring a Pre-Printed Sticker above.
"Content not found" error
The QR code ID may be invalid or the data may have been removed. Double-check that the sticker isn't damaged and the full URL is being scanned. If the problem persists, the QR code may need to be regenerated.
Blank page after scanning
This is usually a browser cache issue. Try clearing your browser cache or opening the link in a private/incognito tab.
Security Key not working
Common issues:
- Make sure you're entering the key for the correct QR code. Match the last 8 characters on the sticker with the reference sheet.
- The format is
XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX(with dashes). Include the dashes. - Security Keys are case-insensitive but must be entered exactly (no extra spaces).
- After too many failed attempts, you may be temporarily locked out. Wait a few minutes and try again.
QR code links to the wrong content after editing
Your browser is likely showing cached content. Clear your cache or try scanning in a private/incognito browser tab.
"Too many attempts" / rate limit error
For security, SmartStickerz limits the number of verification attempts. If you're locked out:
- After 4 failures: Wait 1 minute.
- After 7 failures: Wait 5 minutes.
- After 10 failures: Wait 24 hours.
Make sure you have the correct Security Key or password before trying again.
Need More Help?
For detailed documentation, check out these resources: