Validation methods compared

Mark as Used vs QR Code Scanning: Which Should You Use?

Two ways to validate single-use vouchers in store. Both prevent reuse and track every redemption. The difference is how your staff interact with the coupon.

Test a live voucher Learn about in-store promotions
✓ VALID
20% Off Your Order
Valid until Apr 30, 2026
Mark as Used
Tap to redeem this offer
Mark as Used
✓ SCANNED
20% Off Your Order
Scanned · Redeemed
Coupon validated
This code has been marked as used and cannot be redeemed again.
QR Scanning

How it works

What happens when a voucher is validated.

Both methods follow the same three-step process. The only difference is who triggers it.

  1. 1
    Confirmed legitimate
    The system checks the code exists and belongs to a real campaign.
  2. 2
    Checked for prior use
    Has this code been redeemed before? If yes, it’s blocked. No second chances.
  3. 3
    Marked as redeemed
    The code is locked permanently. Any future attempt shows “Already Used.”

Your two options

Pick the workflow that fits your team.

Mark as Used

Staff taps on customer’s phone

  • No hardware needed
  • One tap — status changes instantly
  • Show someone once and they’ve got it
  • Best for: simple campaigns, small teams, single locations

The customer shows their voucher on screen. Staff taps the button. Done. The code is locked and the redemption is logged.

QR Code Scanning

Staff scans from their own device

  • Uses phone camera — no app download
  • Validates and locks in one scan
  • System decides — no staff judgment calls
  • Best for: multiple locations, high volume, events

Staff open the scanner page on their phone and point the camera at the customer’s QR code. The system validates and redeems in one step.

Side by side

Quick reference table.

FeatureMark as UsedQR Scanning
SetupVery easyModerate
HardwareNonePhone with camera
Staff trainingMinimalShort session
SpeedFastFast
Control levelMedium — staff tapsHigh — system-driven
Who triggersStaff on customer’s phoneStaff from own device
Best forSimple campaigns, small teamsScaled operations, multiple locations

Not sure? Start with Mark as Used.

Most teams upgrade to QR scanning later as volume grows. You can switch without changing your codes.

Go deeper

Want the full breakdown?

This page gives you the short version. The full guide covers setup, common mistakes, and when to switch between methods.

Read: Mark as Used vs QR Code Scanning — the full guide

Use cases

Use Mark-as-Used or scanning in real campaigns

The right method depends on where the voucher is redeemed and how much control staff need.

Coupon validation system

Give staff a clear valid, used, expired, or invalid status.

Explore coupon validation

In-store coupon redemption

Validate offers at checkout without changing the POS.

Explore in-store redemption

Restaurant voucher system

Keep free item and bounce-back offers simple for staff.

Explore restaurant vouchers

Event voucher system

Scan perks, drink tickets, and booth offers in busy lines.

Explore event vouchers

Keep exploring

Where to go next

In-store promotion system → QR scanning system → Restaurant use cases →

Try both methods yourself.

Send yourself a test voucher. Redeem it with a tap or a scan. Try again — reuse is blocked. Two minutes, start to finish.

Start free trial Try a live voucher

7-day free trial · 30-day money-back guarantee · See pricing · Guided demo