To use the WhatsApp Business API you either build on Meta’s Cloud API yourself or use a provider (often called a BSP or Tech Provider) that gives you an inbox, campaigns and automation on top. Here are the questions worth asking before you commit.
The checklist
- Are you a Meta partner? Meta Business Partners and Tech Providers get direct access to new API features and support escalation. Hello24 is a Meta Tech Partner.
- What do you charge per message? Ask whether you pay Meta’s rate as-is or with a markup, and get it in writing. Compare with Meta’s list rates in our India pricing guide.
- How many people can log in? And what does each extra seat cost?
- What is included and what is an add-on? Chatbots, AI, Instagram, Shopify/WooCommerce integration, payment links and flows.
- Can I bring my existing number, and take it with me later? A WhatsApp API number can be moved between providers. Make sure your provider won’t hold it hostage. See do you need a website for WhatsApp API registration?
- Who gets my templates approved? Ask whether someone reviews templates before submission. Our template approval guide covers the common rejection reasons.
- Does it integrate with my store and CRM? Native apps for Shopify, WooCommerce, Zoho or Google Sheets save months of custom work.
- How is my data protected? Look for security certification (Hello24 is ISO 27001 certified), data export, and clear data deletion terms.
- What does onboarding look like? A self-serve trial or guided setup sessions? Who builds your first flows?
- How do I reach support? Response times, a named contact on higher plans, and support in your time zone.
Red flags
- No published pricing and no written per-message rate.
- Annual-only contracts with no way to test the tool on your business first.
- Promises of a “guaranteed green tick”. Meta decides verified badges; no provider can guarantee them. See can I get a green tick without PR?
- Unofficial “WhatsApp bulk sender” tools that don’t use the API. They get numbers banned.
Next step
Compare tools side by side in Best WhatsApp marketing software in India, or book a 1:1 demo of Hello24.
