Barcode Scanning Tips

2 min readUpdated 2026-02-21

Get reliable scans every time with these camera and positioning tips

Overview

PackageTrack Pro uses your phone camera to scan 1D barcodes and QR codes on packages. Here are some tips for reliable scanning.

Positioning

Hold your phone 6 to 8 inches from the barcode. Make sure the entire barcode is visible in the camera frame. Keep your hand steady for a moment while it focuses.

Lighting

Barcodes scan best in well-lit areas. Avoid direct glare on shiny labels — tilt the package slightly if you see a reflection. In dim areas, your phone flashlight can help.

Damaged barcodes

If a barcode is torn, smudged, or partially covered, try scanning a different barcode on the same package. Most packages have multiple barcodes. If none work, tap "Enter Manually" to type the tracking number.

No barcode at all

Some items — inter-office mail, hand-delivered packages, or items without shipping labels — have no barcode. That is fine. Carrier and tracking number are optional. You can receive a package by entering just the recipient and tapping Receive. In Scan & Receive mode, you can use a manual text input to type any identifier.

Tips

  • Most packages have 2-3 barcodes — try scanning a different one if the first does not work
  • QR codes and standard 1D barcodes are both supported
  • The "Enter Manually" option is always available as a fallback
  • Carrier and tracking number are optional — you can receive packages without them

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