WhatsApp Drip Campaign Limitations

While WhatsApp Drip Campaigns are powerful tools for customer engagement, they come with specific limitations and restrictions that you should be aware of when planning your campaigns.

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1. Message Template Requirements

• All initial messages must use pre-approved templates
• Templates require approval from WhatsApp (24-48 hours)
• Limited formatting options in message templates
• Strict character limits for different message components

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2. Messaging Windows

• 24-hour window for free-form messaging after user reply
• No messaging outside business hours (unless user initiates)
• Limited message frequency to prevent spam

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3. User Opt-in Requirements

• Explicit opt-in required before sending messages
• Must clearly state message frequency and content
• Easy opt-out mechanism must be provided
• Must honor opt-out requests immediately

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4. Content Restrictions

• No promotional content in non-promotional messages
• Prohibited content includes:
  • Alcohol (in certain regions)
  • Tobacco products
  • Weapons and ammunition
  • Adult content
  • Illegal products/services

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5. Technical Limitations

• Maximum message size: 64KB
• Media file size limits (16MB for documents, 16MB for images, etc.)
• Limited number of buttons and interactive elements
• Template message expiration (24 hours from sending)

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6. Business Verification Requirements

• WhatsApp Business API requires business verification
• Need to register with Facebook Business Manager
• Business profile information must be complete and accurate
• May require additional documentation for certain business categories

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7. Sending Limits

• Tiered messaging limits based on quality rating
• New numbers start with lower limits
• Limits can increase with good quality ratings
• Sending to non-opted-in users can result in restrictions

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8. Geographic Restrictions

• Some features may not be available in all countries
• Local regulations may impose additional restrictions
• Phone number verification requirements vary by country

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Best Practices to Work Within Limitations

1. Plan Your Templates: Create and submit templates well in advance
2. Segment Your Audience: Target messages to specific user groups
3. Monitor Quality Rating: Maintain high quality to increase sending limits
4. Test Thoroughly: Verify all message templates and sequences
5. Stay Updated: Keep track of WhatsApp policy changes