WhatsApp Business QR Code: Setup Guide
Create a WhatsApp QR code for your business, add a pre-filled message and place it on counters, packaging and posters.
Generate WhatsApp Chat QR
Create WhatsApp chat codes with pre-filled customer draft messages.
For many Indian businesses, WhatsApp is the front desk. A WhatsApp QR code lets a customer start a chat with you in one scan, with no number to save and no message to type. This guide shows you how to set up your number, create the code, write a good pre-filled message and place the code where it works.
Pre-Filled Contexts & Channel Placement
Encode specific context depending on placement. For shop counter: "Hi, I would like to place an order." For delivery box: "Hi, I need assistance with order delivery." This allows your team to know immediately where the customer originated.
Always encode with full E.164 country code format (e.g., +919876543210 for India, +1... for US). Omitting the country code breaks redirection when scanned by travelers or roaming phones.
WhatsApp, WhatsApp Business and the API
WhatsApp is the personal app. It works with a QR code, but it is not built for a shop.
WhatsApp Business is a free app with a business profile, opening hours, an address, a catalogue, quick replies and an away message. It is the right choice for most small businesses.
The WhatsApp Business Platform (API) is for larger companies that send automated messages through a provider. You do not need it for a QR code.
The code works the same in all of them, because it opens a standard chat link for your number.
Step 1: Choose a business number
Use a number dedicated to your business, not your personal number. Put it on a phone or SIM that someone checks regularly. A number printed on a hoarding will be there for years.
Step 2: Set up your business profile
In WhatsApp Business, add your business name, category, opening hours, address and website. Add a catalogue if you sell products. Set an away message and a greeting, so people get a reply even when you are busy. The app also has its own short link and QR option, which you can use as well.
Step 3: Create the QR code
Enter your number with the country code, such as +91 for India, with no spaces or leading zeros. Add a short pre-filled message. Choose dark colours on a light background and a frame such as Chat with Us. Download an SVG or PDF for print.
Step 4: Write a good pre-filled message
Keep it short and specific, and match it to where the code is placed.
Counter: Hi, I'd like to place an order.
Packaging: Hi, I need help with my order.
Hoarding: Hi, I saw your board and would like details.
Clinic: Hi, I'd like to book an appointment.
A message that says where the person scanned helps you reply with the right context.
Step 5: Place the code
On the counter and the bill.
On packaging and thank-you cards.
On shop windows, hoardings and vehicle backs.
On visiting cards and brochures.
Next to your Google Business Profile details.
Make it large enough for the distance and print a line such as Chat with us on WhatsApp beside it.
Step 6: Test and track
Scan it with an Android and an iPhone. If you want to compare placements, make a separate dynamic code for each one and compare scan counts. WhatsApp itself will not tell you which poster a chat came from.
Replying well
Reply quickly, and set expectations with opening hours.
Use quick replies for common questions.
Keep a catalogue current, so you are not typing prices all day.
Do not add people to broadcast lists without permission, and check WhatsApp's business messaging policy before sending promotions.
Privacy and safety
A public QR code means anyone can message you. Use a business number, keep personal details out of the chat, and block and report spam. If you store customer numbers, handle them carefully and only for the purpose the customer expects.
Common mistakes
Leaving out the country code.
Using a personal number on a public poster.
A very long pre-filled message.
No reply for hours, because nobody checks the phone.
Not testing on both Android and iPhone.
Key Takeaways
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