QR Code
A two-dimensional barcode that can quickly store large amounts of data and be scanned with any smartphone, widely used in logistics, inventory management, and track-and-trace.
What is a QR code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that stores information in a square grid of black and white modules. The code can contain up to thousands of characters, including text, URLs, serial numbers, and structured data. QR codes were developed in 1994 by Denso Wave for the Japanese automotive industry and have grown into a universal standard readable by any modern smartphone. Thanks to built-in error correction, QR codes remain functional even when partially damaged or soiled.
How does a QR code work?
A QR code encodes data in a two-dimensional pattern of modules. When scanning, the camera or scanner analyzes the pattern using the three recognizable position patterns in the corners, which determine orientation and scale. The decoder then reads the data modules and applies error correction using the Reed-Solomon algorithm. There are four error correction levels (L, M, Q, H), allowing up to 30% of the code to be damaged without data loss. The result is immediately converted into the stored information, such as a URL, product code, or location identifier.
Example
A logistics service provider uses Wabber's WMS to manage a cross-dock warehouse. Each incoming pallet receives a QR code upon receipt containing the order number, product codes, and destination location. Warehouse employees scan the QR code with a handheld device and the WMS immediately displays the correct dock door for outbound loading. Upon departure, the driver scans the same QR code, after which the TMS automatically updates the track-and-trace information. The entire process from receipt to shipment runs without manual data entry.
Why is the QR code important?
The QR code offers businesses an accessible way to connect physical objects to digital information. The combination of high data capacity, error resilience, and the fact that no specialized hardware is required makes the QR code one of the most cost-effective identification technologies. In sectors such as logistics, industry, and events, the QR code accelerates processes that were previously manual or error-prone. Wabber integrates QR code technology into tracking systems, WMS solutions, and event registration to provide clients with maximum efficiency.
Related solutions
Frequently asked questions
What is a QR code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that stores information in a square pattern of black and white blocks. A QR code can contain thousands of characters, including URLs, serial numbers, and product information. The code is readable with any smartphone and is widely used in logistics, inventory management, events, and marketing.
What is the difference between a QR code and a barcode?
A traditional barcode (1D) is a series of vertical bars that can contain a maximum of 13 digits. A QR code (2D) stores data in two dimensions and can contain up to 7,089 numeric characters. Additionally, a QR code offers built-in error correction and is readable from any angle, while a barcode must be scanned precisely horizontally. For complex applications like track-and-trace, a QR code is therefore often the better choice.
How do you scan a QR code?
The simplest way is through the camera app of a modern smartphone. Point the camera at the QR code and the device recognizes it automatically. In professional environments, such as warehouses, industrial scanners or handheld devices are used that can read QR codes faster and from greater distances. Wabber supplies and manages this hardware through the Hardware & MDM program.
What are QR codes used for in logistics?
In logistics, QR codes are used for identifying products, pallets, and locations, for track-and-trace of shipments, for proof of delivery, and for linking physical goods to digital systems such as a WMS or TMS. Because QR codes contain more data than standard barcodes, they can carry additional information such as batch numbers, expiration dates, and destination data.
How do you generate QR codes programmatically?
For generating QR codes on the command line or in automated workflows, qrencode is an excellent open-source library. With a single command like qrencode -o label.png 'https://wabber.nl' you generate a QR code as an image. The library supports all error correction levels, various output formats (PNG, SVG, EPS, ANSI terminal) and is available for Linux, macOS, and Windows. For ZPL label printers, the generated QR code can be directly incorporated into the label design.
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