Understanding how WhatsApp API pricing works can be confusing at first. Different message types, Meta fees, and platform charges often make businesses wonder what they are really paying for. This guide explains everything in plain language so you can see exactly how WhatsApp API costs and Waboom pricing fit together.
1. How WhatsApp API Pricing Works #
WhatsApp (owned by Meta) charges businesses each time they start a new conversation window with a customer.
A conversation lasts 24 hours from the first message sent or received. During that period, you can exchange unlimited messages at no extra charge.
There are two main conversation types:
- Business-initiated conversations – You start the chat with a pre-approved message template.
- User-initiated conversations – The customer messages you first, and you reply within 24 hours.
Each type has a different rate that depends on the customer’s country. Meta publishes these rates publicly on the official WhatsApp Business API pricing page.
2. Other WhatsApp API Costs #
Besides the per-conversation fee, you may see a few additional items:
- Template approval – Creating a new message template is free, but Meta must review and approve it.
- Phone number registration – One-time verification through Facebook Business Manager.
- Cloud hosting or BSP access – If you use a provider (like Waboom), they host your API connection and may charge a small usage or subscription fee.
3. Waboom Pricing Made Simple #
Waboom gives you all the benefits of the WhatsApp Business API without the need for developers or server setup. We combine Meta’s official charges with our platform tools—automation, CRM, analytics, and campaign management—into clear monthly plans.
| Plan | Ideal for | Key Features | Monthly Fee* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starter | Small teams exploring automation | 1 WhatsApp number, 1 user, up to 1 000 conversations / month | $29 + Meta fees |
| Growth | Medium businesses | 3 numbers, up to 10 000 conversations, automation builder, analytics | $79 + Meta fees |
| Pro | High-volume teams | Unlimited users, CRM integration, advanced reporting, priority support | Custom quote |
*Meta’s per-conversation charges apply on top of your Waboom plan.
4. What You Get with Every Waboom Plan #
- Official WhatsApp API Access – Fully verified connection through Meta.
- Automation & Chatbots – Create workflows that reply instantly to common questions.
- Broadcasts & Drip Campaigns – Reach thousands of contacts with targeted messages.
- CRM Integration – Manage chats, leads, and deals from one dashboard.
- Detailed Analytics – Track message delivery, read rates, and campaign performance.
- 24/7 Support – Our team helps you resolve issues quickly so you stay connected.
Each plan is built to grow with your business. You can upgrade or downgrade at any time from your account dashboard.
5. Example: Estimating Your Monthly Cost #
Let’s say you run an online store in Canada and use the Growth Plan.
- You send 4 000 business-initiated conversations in a month.
- The Meta rate for Canada is roughly $0.045 per conversation.
Meta fee: 4 000 × $0.045 = $180
Waboom plan: $79
Estimated total: $259 for the month
If you also receive customer-initiated messages, those may cost slightly less or even be free, depending on Meta’s policy.
6. Tips to Keep Costs Low #
- Use automation wisely. Send relevant, timed messages instead of daily blasts.
- Encourage customers to message you first. Replies within 24 hours count as user-initiated and are often cheaper.
- Reuse templates. Approved templates save time and reduce review delays.
- Track analytics. Stop campaigns that aren’t converting and focus on the ones that do.
7. Frequently Asked Questions #
Is there a free trial?
Yes. Waboom offers a limited trial so you can test automations and the dashboard before paying.
Can I use my existing WhatsApp number?
You can, as long as it isn’t active on another WhatsApp app. We’ll help you migrate it.
Do prices vary by country?
Yes. Meta’s rates differ by destination country. Waboom automatically calculates this for you.
Can I cancel anytime?
Absolutely. You can cancel or switch plans anytime from your billing settings.
