How to sell 3D printed QR codes to local businesses
If you own a 3D printer, custom QR codes are one of the easiest products to sell: cheap to make and every business needs them.
Why they work
Businesses already use QR codes for menus, reviews and wifi, usually printed on paper. A two-color 3D object with their name and colors looks professional, lasts for years and stands out from the competition. And you can design it in a minute with QRelieve.
What to offer
- Table packs for restaurants: 10–20 menu stands.
- Review stand for any shop's register.
- Wifi plaque for vacation rentals.
- Fridge magnets in batches of 50–100 for pizzerias and delivery services.
- Custom keychains for weddings, events and merch.
How to price
Work out material cost (grams × price per kg), add electricity and machine time, then your margin. For reference, a table stand uses about 40–60 g of PLA (roughly $1–1.50 of material).
| Product | Approx. material | Indicative price |
|---|---|---|
| Keychain | 6–8 g | $3–6 |
| Fridge magnet | 12–18 g | $3–5 |
| Coaster | 25–35 g | $5–8 |
| Wifi plaque | 40–60 g | $12–20 |
| Table stand | 40–60 g | $12–25 |
Prices are indicative: adjust them to your area, order size and whether you include design and shipping.
Landing your first clients
- Print 3–4 samples with the names of real businesses near you.
- Visit them at quiet hours and let them scan the sample with their own phone.
- Offer a launch price on the first table pack.
- Post photos on Instagram, Facebook Marketplace and local groups.
- Ask every happy client to refer another business.
💡 Always bring a sample that links to the business's own Google review page: when the owner scans it and sees their listing, the sale is almost done.
Keep in mind
- Use logos and names only with the business's permission.
- Always test-scan before printing the full batch.
- Check the requirements to sell in your state or country (licenses, sales tax).
How to present a quote
- Show a photo or a real sample with their name.
- Offer two or three fixed options (for example: 10 stands, 20 stands, 20 stands + 100 magnets).
- Include a lead time and a test scan before producing the batch.
- Put in writing which link each code uses and who is responsible for keeping it live.
Shipping and packaging
Flat parts travel well in padded envelopes; table stands are safer in a small box with paper. If you sell online, photograph each finished order and scan a piece on camera: it's the best guarantee for the customer.
Questions clients will ask
- What if I change my menu? If the menu stays at the same link, the code keeps working.
- Will it wear off? No: the color is the plastic itself, not ink.
- Can it be cleaned? Yes, with a damp cloth; avoid the dishwasher for PLA.
- Can it include my logo? Yes, in the center of the code, always with a test scan.