How to Create a GS1 Digital Link QR Code (Step-by-Step)
A GS1 Digital Link QR code isn't just a regular QR code that points to a URL. It follows a specific format defined by GS1 — the same organization behind UPC barcodes — so that it works at retail point-of-sale, in supply chain systems, and as a consumer-facing link. One code, multiple uses.
Here's how to create one, step by step.
Step 1: Get Your GTIN
Every GS1 Digital Link QR code starts with a GTIN (Global Trade Item Number). This is the 8, 12, 13, or 14-digit number that identifies your product — the same number encoded in your existing UPC or EAN barcode.
If you already have UPC barcodes, you already have GTINs. Check your existing barcode — the number beneath it is your GTIN.
If you don't have GTINs yet, you need a GS1 Company Prefix:
- In the US, register at gs1us.org. Pricing starts at $250/year for the prefix, which lets you assign GTINs to up to 10 products.
- Outside the US, contact your local GS1 office.
Each product variant needs its own GTIN. A 12oz bag of coffee and a 16oz bag are two different GTINs.
Step 2: Understand the GS1 Digital Link URI format
A GS1 Digital Link encodes your GTIN into a URL with a specific structure:
https://id.example.com/01/09506000134376
Breaking this down:
| Part | Meaning |
|---|---|
https://id.example.com | Your resolver domain |
/01/ | GS1 Application Identifier for GTIN |
09506000134376 | Your 14-digit GTIN (zero-padded) |
You can add more data with additional path segments:
https://id.example.com/01/09506000134376/10/LOT123/21/SERIAL456
Here, /10/ is the batch/lot number and /21/ is a serial number. These are optional but valuable for traceability.
Step 3: Set up a resolver and generate your QR code
Your QR code needs a resolver -- the web service that receives scan requests and routes them to the right destination. The resolver is also what keeps your QR codes GS1-compliant as the standard evolves.
With SunriseQR, you enter your GTIN, configure your link destinations, and we handle the resolver, QR code generation, and ongoing compliance. Your QR code is ready to download as soon as you add a product.
Step 4: Printing requirements
Whether you generate the QR code yourself or download it from SunriseQR, the same print rules apply:
- Error correction level: Use at least M (Medium, 15% recovery). For packaging that may get scratched or damaged, use Q (Quartile, 25% recovery).
- Minimum size: GS1 recommends at least 20mm x 20mm for reliable scanning. Larger is better.
- Quiet zone: Leave at least 4 modules of white space around the QR code on all sides.
- Contrast: Dark modules on a light background. The contrast ratio should be at least 40%. Avoid putting QR codes on busy or textured backgrounds.
What NOT to do:
- Don't use a URL shortener -- the full GS1 Digital Link URI must be in the QR code for it to be GS1-compliant.
- Don't add a custom logo overlay without using level H error correction, and keep it under 20% of the code area.
- Don't invert the colors (light on dark) -- it reduces scan reliability.
Step 5: Test before printing
Before sending to your printer:
- Scan with multiple devices -- Test on at least 3 different phones (iOS and Android). Open the camera app and point it at the code on screen.
- Verify the redirect -- Check that scanning takes you to the correct destination through your resolver.
- Print a proof -- Scan the printed proof at actual size. Screen testing and print testing can give different results.
- Check at distance -- Try scanning from 10-12 inches away, the typical distance for a consumer picking up a product.
Step 6: Update your packaging
Work with your packaging designer and printer to place the QR code on your packaging:
- Primary display panel is ideal for consumer engagement
- Back or side panel works for compliance
- Near the existing barcode helps retailers understand both codes coexist during the transition
- Add a small call-to-action like "Scan for product info" near the code
During the Sunrise 2027 transition period, most brands will keep their traditional barcode and add the new QR code. They can coexist on the same package.
Common mistakes to avoid
| Mistake | What goes wrong | How SunriseQR prevents it |
|---|---|---|
| Using a generic QR code generator | Code scans but isn't GS1-compliant, won't work at point-of-sale | Only generates codes that conform to the GS1 Digital Link URI standard |
| Forgetting to zero-pad your GTIN | GS1 Digital Link URIs require 14-digit GTINs -- a 12-digit UPC-A needs two leading zeros | Handles padding automatically when you enter your GTIN |
| Not setting up redirects properly | Consumer phones and supply chain systems need different responses from the same URI | Content negotiation handled out of the box |
| Letting compliance drift | GS1 updates its standards regularly -- a compliant code today may not meet requirements a year from now | Tracks spec changes and keeps your resolver current |