Business app or API?
| WhatsApp Business app | WhatsApp Business Platform (API) | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Per-message fees plus provider fees |
| Automation | Greeting, away messages, quick replies | Full chatbot flows, integrations, broadcasts |
| Users | One phone, a few devices | Multi-agent inbox and systems |
| Best for | Very small businesses | Growing teams and automation |
Set-up steps
- Define the top 5 conversations: pricing, booking, order status, support, quote.
- Pick a provider or direct API access; verify your business with Meta.
- Register a dedicated number (not already on personal WhatsApp unless migrated).
- Create and submit message templates for business-initiated messages.
- Build flows with clear menus and a ‘talk to a human’ option.
- Connect your calendar, CRM or ERP via n8n or the provider’s integrations.
- Add opt-in capture and an opt-out keyword.
- Test with real scenarios and track response times and costs.
Design tips
- Answer in the first two lines; keep messages short.
- Offer buttons and lists instead of free text where possible.
- Hand off to a person for complaints, payments or anything unclear.
- Never collect sensitive data such as card numbers in chat.
Budget
Meta bills per delivered template message by category and country; see our pricing explainer. Add provider fees and build time.
Automate your first process Free process review
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Frequently asked questions
Can I use my existing WhatsApp number?
Often yes, but it moves to the Business Platform and stops working in the normal app; plan the migration.
Do customers need to opt in?
Yes. WhatsApp requires opt-in for business-initiated messages.
How long does setup take?
A simple flow can be live in days once the business is verified and templates are approved.
Get a free quote in 24 hours
Tell us what you need. We reply with scope, timeline and a fixed price.