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Scan errors customers see

When a customer scans your QR code, in normal operation they see your PDF. Sometimes they see an error page instead. Here's what each one means and what to do.

"Trial expired"

What it means: the code is on a free trial and has hit its customer-scan cap. Real customers can't scan it anymore.

Fix: Pick a plan on the Billing page. Once you've paid, customer scans work immediately again.

If you're seeing this on a code you thought was on a paid plan, either the plan lapsed (failed payment, etc.) or there's a billing hiccup — check Manage billing in the dashboard, or contact us if it doesn't look right.

"This menu is not available right now"

What it means: the code is archived (you deleted it from the dashboard). It can't be un-archived — archive is final.

Fix: if customers are still scanning a code you archived, you've got physical signs / stickers / printouts out in the world pointing at it. Either pull those down, or — if you need a live QR code at that location — create a new code in the dashboard and re-print with the new code's QR. The old code's URL can't be reactivated.

"Couldn't load PDF" / blank page

What it means: the customer's browser or the phone's PDF viewer isn't loading the file. Almost always on their end — bad signal, their phone is offline, an aggressive content blocker.

What you can do: scan it yourself from a different network / device. If you can scan and load fine, the code is healthy. If you can't, contact us with the code's friendly name.

Customer scanned and got the wrong (old) menu

Not really an error — usually a caching issue on the customer's phone (see Update didn't go through, point 6). Most phone PDF viewers cache pretty aggressively. A new scan, or a different phone, will usually show the current PDF.

Customer's camera doesn't recognize the QR code

If the customer says "my camera doesn't read it":

  • The QR code is probably too small. See the sizing guide.
  • Or it's printed on a glossy surface with bad reflections — try a matte finish.
  • Or the customer's phone has an older camera app that needs a QR code reader app installed (very uncommon now, but happens).