WhatsApp Commerce Readiness Checklist
20 practical criteria across 4 operational dimensions — assess where your WhatsApp store stands today and eliminate the leaks costing you repeat sales.
What's inside the checklist
Catalog & Inventory Operations (5 points)
- High-resolution real product photography with clear size/fabric attributes
- Visible INR pricing on every catalog item (eliminating "DM for price" friction)
- Synchronized stock availability so out-of-stock items are removed immediately
- Logical collections configured (e.g. New Arrivals, Best Sellers, Festive)
- Direct WhatsApp chat links embedded across Instagram bio and website headers
Response & Conversion Protocols (5 points)
- Saved quick-reply keyboard shortcuts for UPI details, payment links, and FAQs
- Sub-5-minute first response protocol during active retail business hours
- Automated off-hours greeting stating exact store hours and expected reply time
- Standardized 3-step closing sequence (Selection → Payment Link → Address/GSTIN)
- Color-coded chat labels organizing leads from "New Enquiry" to "Paid & Dispatched"
Post-Purchase & Fulfillment (5 points)
- Immediate payment confirmation message with itemized order summary
- Automated dispatch notification with courier AWB tracking link
- Delivery check-in message sent 24 hours post-delivery with 1-tap feedback
- Repeat purchase re-engagement trigger scheduled based on product lifecycle
- Documented return/exchange response template resolving queries in under 24 hours
Compliance & Account Protection (5 points)
- Explicit customer opt-in collected at in-store billing or online checkout
- Strict zero-cold-broadcast policy to prevent spam reports and account bans
- Verified Meta Business Manager backed by GSTIN and business registration
- Mandatory two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled across all business admins
- Documented transition threshold: clear criteria for when to upgrade to the Cloud API
Pairs with our comprehensive comparison of the WhatsApp Business App vs. WhatsApp Business API and the foundational WhatsApp Commerce Guide for Indian Retail .
Retail & D2C Conversational Sales
WhatsApp Commerce Readiness Checklist
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