WhatsApp recovery messages are sent through the WhatsApp Business API, which requires approval from Meta before you can start sending. This is a one-time process, but it takes time and has some common pitfalls. Here's what to expect and how to get through it without delays.
Why approval is required
Meta requires businesses to go through a verification process to unlock full messaging capabilities and ensure compliance with WhatsApp's policies. You can't send business-initiated messages on WhatsApp without completing this process.
What you need before you start
Before connecting WhatsApp in Markopolo, make sure you have:
A Meta Business Manager account Your business must have a Facebook Business Manager account and complete business verification — this means providing documents to prove your business is legitimate.
A dedicated phone number The number must be new or at least unused on WhatsApp, able to receive SMS or voice calls, and clearly tied to your business. You cannot use a number that's already registered on a personal or WhatsApp Business app account.
A business website Meta checks your website as part of the verification process. Your display name must match your business's public-facing brand.
The approval steps
Step 1 — Verify your Meta Business Manager This is the most important step and the most common source of delays. Business verification drives approval — template approvals and messaging limits depend on completing Facebook Business Manager verification accurately. Submit your business documents and make sure your business name is spelled consistently across all Meta platforms, your website, and your legal documents.
Step 2 — Get your display name approved Display name rules are strict — Meta checks your branding against your website and legal documents. Your display name must include your actual business name. Generic names like "Support" or "Sales Assistant" will be rejected. Use something like "Support by [Your Brand]" or simply your brand name.
Step 3 — Register your phone number Your dedicated number is registered to your WhatsApp Business Account (WABA). Once your display name is approved, your number status moves to Connected.
Step 4 — Get your message templates approved Any message Markopolo sends on your behalf — recovery messages, follow-ups — must use a pre-approved template. Template approval typically takes 24–48 hours. Templates that are vague, overly promotional without context, or contain placeholder text that isn't explained are commonly rejected.
How long does it take?
It typically takes 1–7 business days to get approval, depending on whether your Facebook Business Manager is already verified. If your documents are clean and your business name is consistent everywhere, you'll be at the faster end of that range.
The most common reason for delays: spelling differences or missing details across platforms. Make sure your business name is identical on your website, your Meta Business Manager, and your WhatsApp display name application.
Messaging limits
After approval, you start with a basic messaging limit which scales with usage and customer feedback. New accounts begin at 1,000 conversations per month. This limit increases automatically as you send high-quality messages and maintain a good sender rating — you don't need to apply for increases manually.
What to avoid
Don't use your existing WhatsApp number. Migrating a personal or WhatsApp Business app number to the API causes downtime and complications. Start with a fresh number.
Don't submit generic display names. Names without your brand will be rejected every time.
Don't send messages without opt-in. Meta is strict about this — only send messages to users who've opted in. Sending to users without consent can get your account flagged or suspended.
Don't use promotional language in utility templates. Keep recovery message templates focused on the shopper's specific cart or checkout — avoid generic promotional claims.
Once you're approved
Connect your WhatsApp Business Account in Markopolo → Integrations → WhatsApp and Markopolo handles the rest — template submission, sending, and delivery tracking are all managed from within the platform.
Starting the approval process early is strongly recommended. WhatsApp approval can take up to a week even when everything is in order. If you're planning to include WhatsApp in your recovery campaigns, begin the Meta verification process before you finish setting up your other channels.