2D and linear barcodes have the same limitations for scanning from manufacturing to point of sale. 

To ensure smooth scanning stick to the following guidance:

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High contrast is key - use dark colours on a light background, with black and white being the best combination

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Avoid red or orange as the dark colour elements in your barcode - most scanners use a red light and will not pick these colours up

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Refrain from reverse reflectance (inverting the light and dark modules)

Traditional scanners may not facilitate this setup as EAN/UPC barcodes are never inverted. For this reason, anticipating that these barcodes will be scanned at tills in shops, reversing QR colours is not recommended. 

Qr codes powered by GS1 mock up

To get further insights into what colours and other elements are possible for 2D barcodes in retail and consumer settings, check out our guide. 

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