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Short answer: Most QR failures happen because the link changed (you edited the slug), the domain isn’t active/SSL-valid, or the printed image is hard to scan. Check the URL of the link, verify the domain status, then re-download the QR from the link’s QR tab. If you changed the slug or domain, you must reprint.
Important: Changing only the destination URL keeps the same link, so your existing dynamic QR keeps working. Only slug/domain changes require a new print.See: What happens to a QR code after changing a link?

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Fast checks (most common causes)

  1. Scan the source image Open the exact QR image you downloaded from ShortPen and scan it with 2–3 phones. If the on-screen file works but the printed one doesn’t, jump to Print & design checks below.
  2. Confirm the link resolves right now In ShortPen, open the link, click Open URL (or copy the full domain + slug), and test in a private window. If the link itself fails, edit and fix the link first.
  3. Did you change the slug (or domain)? Changing the slug/domain creates a new link. Changing the slug/domain creates a new link and the previous link stops working. Re-download the updated QR and reprint.
  4. Check the domain status & SSL Make sure the domain shown on the QR is Active/verified. If DNS is Pending or Cloudflare Proxy/SSL is misconfigured (set Cloudflare to DNS-only and SSL/TLS to Full), scans can fail.
  5. Review redirect & access rules Password, or other rules may block your test device.
  1. Quiet zone & size Keep a clear white margin, don’t crop. Print large enough for the scan distance. See Best Practices.
  2. Contrast & colors Dark modules on a light background scan best. Avoid low-contrast brand palettes.
  3. File quality Prefer SVG from ShortPen. Re-export if the file was compressed by other tools.
    Learn more: How to download and use QR Codes from ShortPen

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How to safely regenerate or re-download your QR

If the checks above look good but scans still fail, refresh the QR from the link:
  1. Go to Links → open your link → QR tab.
  2. Review Domain and Slug. They must match what you plan to distribute.
  3. (Optional) Adjust colors/logo, then Save.
  4. Click Download → choose SVG (best for print) or PNG/PDF.
  5. Test-scan the new file on multiple devices. Replace the asset wherever it’s used (print, packaging, signage).

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FAQ

No. Analytics continue on the same link. For a central campaign pivot, duplicate the link.