Skip to main content

One-Time-Use vs. Standard QR Codes

Discover why Swapt One-Time-Use codes change the game for analytics and campaign tracking.

E
Written by Ella Hutnick
Updated over a month ago

Standard vs. One-Time-Use QR Codes

Most QR providers create multi-use QR codes.

Swapt is different. We champion one-time-use QR codes- codes that ensure only real customers get discounts.


Both connect your physical products to digital experiences — but choosing single-use Swapt QR codes affects how secure, traceable, and controlled that experience is.


One-Time-Use QR Codes

Overview
One-time-use QR codes look and scan just like standard ones — but what happens after the scan is different.
Each code leads to a unique, trackable experience (like a form, claim, or verification) that can only be completed once. The code itself can be scanned multiple times, but the form on the landing page can only be submitted once.

For example, a one-time use campaign with 1,000 codes will create 1,000 codes that have differently-arranged dots:

Why brands choose them

  • Prevents fraud and duplicate submissions

  • Enables item-level verification and tracking

  • Protects redemptions, warranties, or rewards

  • Requires Swapt-managed printing — ensuring every code is securely placed and properly linked

Because each code is uniquely registered and managed through Swapt, brands gain full visibility into where and when codes are scanned — and peace of mind that every interaction is legitimate.


Standard QR Codes

Overview
Standard QR codes are static and reusable. They can be scanned by anyone, any number of times, and they’ll always lead to the same digital destination — like a Vault, landing page, or product experience.

Key points

  • Easy to set up and maintain

  • Great for general, repeatable experiences

  • Best when access control or data verification isn’t critical

Standard QR codes are a simple, flexible option for brands that want an always-on digital touchpoint without additional verification layers.


Why It Matters

Both options deliver great experiences, but one-time-use codes offer significantly more control.
They eliminate duplicate claims, prevent counterfeit participation, and create reliable, verified data — while driving consistent printing and quality assurance through Swapt’s platform.

If you’re running any experience where authenticity, redemptions, or data integrity matter, one-time-use codes are the right choice.

Did this answer your question?