A QR code queue is a digital waiting line that customers join by scanning a QR code with their phone. Instead of standing in a physical line or writing their name on a clipboard, they scan, enter their details, and wait from anywhere while tracking their position in real time.
What Is a QR Code Queue?
A QR code queue replaces paper sign-up sheets and crowded waiting areas with a simple digital system. You display a QR code at your entrance or counter. Customers scan it with their phone camera, enter their name, and join your queue instantly.
Once they join, customers see their live position and estimated wait time on their phone. They can wait in their car, browse nearby shops, or grab a coffee — they don't need to stand in line. When their turn is approaching, they get an SMS notification so they can head back.
For staff, a QR code queue management system means fewer interruptions, less manual tracking, and clear visibility into how many people are waiting. Everything runs through a real-time dashboard that any team member can access.
How a QR Code Queue Works in 3 Steps
1
Print Your QR Code
Sign up and generate your unique queue QR code from the ScanQueue dashboard. Print it on a table tent, poster, or sticker and place it where customers can see it — your entrance, reception desk, or counter.
2
Customer Scans to Join
Walk-in customers scan the QR code with their phone camera. A mobile-friendly page opens where they enter their name, select a service if applicable, and tap to join. No app download, no account creation.
3
Live Updates + Notifications
Customers track their queue position in real time on their phone. When their turn is approaching, they receive an SMS notification. Staff manage the queue from a live dashboard — calling, skipping, or reordering entries as needed.
QR Code Queue vs Paper Waitlist
| Paper Waitlist | QR Code Queue |
|---|---|
Illegible handwriting and lost names | Digital entries — nothing gets lost |
Customers must stay nearby to hear their name | Customers wait anywhere and get an SMS |
Staff manually track positions | Automatic position management |
No way to notify no-shows | Timed notifications reduce no-shows |
Zero data on wait times or volume | Built-in analytics and reporting |
Who Uses QR Code Queue Systems?
Restaurants & Cafes
Manage walk-in diners without a crowded lobby. Guests wait at the bar or outside and get a text when their table is ready.
Barbershops & Salons
Customers join the queue before arriving so they can time their visit instead of sitting in a waiting room.
Clinics & Wellness
Reduce crowded waiting rooms. Patients check in via QR and wait in their car or a quieter area until called.
Events & Venues
Speed up entry for concerts, conferences, and pop-ups. Attendees scan once and flow through without bottlenecks.
Get a QR Code Queue Free
ScanQueue's free plan gives you one queue, real-time position tracking, and a shareable QR code — everything you need to get started. No credit card required.
When you're ready for more, upgrade to Growth or Pro for SMS notifications, multiple queues, analytics, and AI-powered features.
Everything You Need in a QR Queue System
Real-Time Updates
Customers see their live queue position and estimated wait time on their phone — no refreshing needed.
SMS Notifications
Automatic text messages alert customers when their turn is approaching or when they are next in line.
Service Selection
Offer multiple services and let customers pick what they need. Each service runs its own queue.
Staff Dashboard
Call the next customer, skip, remove, or reorder entries from a clean, real-time dashboard.
Analytics
Track average wait times, peak hours, and customer volume to make data-driven staffing decisions.
Multi-Language Support
Serve an international customer base. The join page adapts to the customer's browser language.
See It in Action
5-Minute Setup
Sign up, name your business, print your QR code. You're live in under 5 minutes — no hardware, no IT team.
No App Download
Customers scan your QR code with their phone camera. No app download, no account needed — works in any browser.
Instant SMS Alerts
Staff tap Notify. Customer gets an SMS within seconds with their queue status. No shouting names across the room.
Frequently Asked Questions
Customers scan the QR code displayed at your location using their phone camera. This opens a mobile-friendly page where they enter their name, select a service, and join the queue. No app download is required.
Yes, ScanQueue offers a free plan that includes one queue with basic features. No credit card is required to get started. Paid plans add SMS notifications, multiple queues, analytics, and more.
No. ScanQueue works entirely in the browser. Customers scan the QR code and interact with a mobile web page — no app store visit required.
Yes. ScanQueue supports per-service queues so customers can select the service they need when joining. Each service maintains its own queue positions and wait times.
Customers receive live position updates and SMS notifications when their turn is approaching. This keeps them engaged and informed, reducing the chance they leave without being served.
QR code queues are used by restaurants, barbershops, clinics, retail stores, events, government offices, and any business that serves walk-in customers. Any location with a waiting line can benefit.