Where scan-to-call helps
Printed phone numbers are easy to misread and tedious to type. A tel: code avoids both problems and is especially handy when the number is long or includes an extension.
- Vehicle signage for trades and delivery services.
- Real estate yard signs: call the agent about this property.
- Emergency or maintenance contact stickers on equipment.
- Posters and flyers where a website would be overkill.
Formatting the number
Use international format starting with + and the country code. A number like (020) 7946 0000 in London becomes +44 20 7946 0000. We strip spaces, brackets and dashes before encoding. International format means the code also works for tourists and visitors using foreign SIM cards.
Because the dialer opens rather than calling immediately, people can check the number before connecting. Phones don't allow QR codes to place calls without confirmation.
Static is the right choice here
Business phone numbers rarely change, and when they do, most signage is reprinted anyway. A static code has no dependency on any service: it simply contains tel:+442079460000. If you're printing a number that might change, such as a seasonal campaign line, consider a dynamic code pointing at a contact page instead.