How it works
The code holds a Google Maps directions link to your listing. When a customer scans it, Google Maps opens with your business as the destination and their phone’s location as the start.
- Search for your business, or paste its link from Google Maps.
- Check the name and pick a headline, a layout and a paper size.
- Scan the preview with your phone to test the route.
- Download the PDF to print, or the PNG for a website, menu or flyer.
Put it where people decide to come to you: on delivery bags, flyers, appointment cards, a sign at the main road turn, or the booking confirmation you send.
What you give and what you get
You give the business, from Google Maps search or a pasted link, and the words for the sign.
You get a directions link, a QR code that opens it, and a sign in A5, A6 or US half-letter as a 300 dpi PNG or a print-ready PDF with the code as sharp vector paths.
Method and limits
Why the link uses a Place ID
Google’s Maps URLs guide documents a directions link with a destination and an optional destination_place_id. A Place ID names exactly one listing, so the route ends at your business and not at a search result with a similar name. Google asks for the destination text as well, so the code carries your name and address with it. Maps URLs need no API key, so the code keeps working without any service in between.
Pasting a link instead
A full Google Maps link that carries a Place ID gives the same exact route. A link that only names a place becomes a search for that name, which Google resolves near the person scanning, so searching for your business is the safer choice. Short share links (maps.app.goo.gl) have to be opened first, which this page does not do.
Privacy
Everything runs in your browser. The search uses Google Maps to find your listing; the link, the code and the files are made on your device and nothing is stored.
Questions
- Does a Google Maps QR code expire?
- Not this one. The code holds a Google Maps link itself, with no redirect service in between, so it works for as long as Google keeps your listing.
- Will it open the Google Maps app?
- Google’s Maps URLs guide says the link opens the Google Maps app on Android and iOS when it is installed, and Google Maps in the browser otherwise. With no start point in the link, directions start from where the phone is.
- What happens if I move or change my address?
- Update the address on your Business Profile first. Google says Place IDs can change over time, so after any move scan the printed code again, and make a new one if it no longer ends at your door.
- Can I put the code on my website or menu?
- Yes. Download QR code only for a PNG of the code with its quiet margin. Keep it at least 2 cm wide on paper so phones can read it.
- Is this different from a review QR code?
- Yes. This code opens directions to your business. A review QR code opens the form to leave a Google review; Reach has a separate tool for that.