Retail ID Hardware and Software Resource Center

Retail ID QR codes deliver instant value to every stakeholder in the cannabis supply chain. Acting as the universal product code (UPC) of cannabis, Retail ID combines the efficiency of modern data management with the transparency that today’s consumers and operators expect.

What is Retail ID?

Retail ID is a dynamic 2D QR code that holds far more data than a traditional barcode, unlocking product insights at every stage of the supply chain. With just a single scan, anyone with a smartphone can instantly access key product details, including:

Verified test results and COA
Product origin and source details
Supplemental information like harvest date, potency, and terpene profile

Benefits across the supply chain

Retailers: Save time and reduce manual entry with faster intake. Scan hundreds of products into inventory within minutes, freeing up hours of labor to focus more on customers.
Brands: Streamline labeling with one code that does it all. Simplify compliance, unify product data, and gain visibility into sell-through performance.
Consumers: Get instant access to product details and test results with one scan to enhance trust and confidence

Recommended tools to get started

Based on feedback from operators already using Retail ID in their workflows and Metrc’s extensive testing, we’ve compiled a list of recommended hardware and software solutions for a smooth implementation.

While there are many providers in the market, these options have proven to be among the fastest, most reliable, and most effective for cannabis operators.

Recommended item	Type	Manufacturer/ Vendor	Comparable alternative	Purchase options
Zebra ZD421	Hardware / Printer	Zebra	Zebra ZD420 / ZD620 / ZD621	Amazon CDW
Zebra ZT421	Hardware / Printer	Zebra	Zebra ZT420 / ZT620	Amazon CDW
Epson ColorWorks CW-C6500A	Hardware / Printer	Epson	Epson ColorWorks C6000 / C7500 / C8000	CDW
DNP V300 Ribbon	Labels	DNP	—
2.25 x 1.25 Thermal Labels	Labels	OnlineLabels	—	Amazon OnlineLabels
Bartender Automation Edition	Software	Seagull Scientific	—	CDW
ZebraDesigner Professional 3	Software	Zebra	—	CDW
NiceLabel Designer Pro	Software	Loftware	—	CDW

Additionally, Metrc has developed step-by-step guides for leveraging these recommended software tools ─ designed to help you integrate Retail ID seamlessly into your labeling workflow and start realizing its full benefits right away.

Third-Party integration labeling partners

Metrc also partners with leading cannabis technology providers that have integrated Retail ID QR codes into their labeling solutions.

Check out these partners for additional tools and workflows designed to make Retail ID implementation even easier:

Integrator	Retail ID resources
Canix	Here
Distru	Here
StashStock	Here

Retailer resources

Recommended scanners for success

As you work with your POS providers, having the right scanner is key to getting the most out of Retail ID QR codes. Here are a few tips to set you up for success:

Use a 2D scanner – 1D-only scanners can’t read QR codes.
Choose reliable hardware – cheaper scanners may misread codes.
Check scanner settings – some require programming tweaks, like enabling carriage return.

Here are the recommended scanners that have performed best with our testing:

Zebra H-6672 (2D, wired only) – Wired is preferred for POS to avoid misplaced or mixed-up scanners. Purchase on Amazon.
Zebra DS2208 – Reliable; personally tested for over 6 years with excellent performance. Purchase on Amazon.
Zebra DS2278 – Very similar to the DS2208; wireless option with proven reliability. Purchase on Amazon.
Zebra CS6080 – High-performance 2D scanner. Purchase on Amazon.
Zebra CR6080 – Durable and versatile 2D scanner.

Third-Party Integrated POS partners

Your POS is where Retail ID delivers instant impact speeding up intake, helping prevent data errors, and building customer trust at checkout.

Set up Retail ID in your existing system with the links below:

POS	Resources
Dutchie	Dutchie retailer Retail ID Guide
Treez	Treez Help Center: Retail ID
Flowhub	Flowhub Enabling Settings
Blaze	Blaze Retail ID Overview
IndicaOnline	IndicaOnline Support
GrowFlow	GrowFlow Retail ID Support

Retail ID QR Code Size Recommendations

We offer two standard Retail ID QR codes sizes:

Small: 0.5″ × 0.5″
Large: 0.75″ × 0.75″

We do not recommend reducing the QR code below 0.35″, as smaller sizes can significantly impact scannability. Keep in mind that lower DPI printing can also affect readability, so always verify that your printed Retail ID QR codes scan properly with your device or scanner.