WhatsApp Templates · Customs Clearance Agents
WhatsApp message templates for customs brokers
Customs brokers need six templates, five utility and one marketing. The utility set follows a declaration through document requests, duty payment, examination and release status, while the marketing message promotes a compliance or filing service the importer has not engaged yet.
A declaration can be held up for a single missing paper or an unpaid duty line, and a delay of hours turns into port charges. WhatsApp puts each request in front of the importer while the file is still open.
Document request
UtilitySend it when: The declaration is stalled on missing paperwork
Hi {{1}}, declaration {{2}} is on hold pending {{3}}. Please share it today so we can file before the {{4}} cut-off and avoid a second examination.Duty and tax payment reminder
UtilitySend it when: Assessed duty is due for a live entry
Hi {{1}}, the assessed duty for entry {{2}} is {{3}}, payable by {{4}}. Once the payment is confirmed we will proceed to release the consignment.Examination notice
UtilitySend it when: Customs has flagged a container for inspection
Hi {{1}}, container {{2}} has been selected for examination at {{3}} on {{4}}. We will attend and will update you with the outcome the same day.Clearance status update
UtilitySend it when: The entry moves to a new clearance stage
Hi {{1}}, entry {{2}} has cleared {{3}} and is moving to {{4}}. Provisionally, we expect release on {{5}} if no further queries arise.Out-of-charge and release notice
UtilitySend it when: Duties are settled and goods are released
Hi {{1}}, entry {{2}} is out of charge and released as of {{3}}. You can arrange collection against the delivery order, and we will send the final duty statement.Trade compliance offer
MarketingSend it when: Promoting a compliance, audit or filing service
Hi {{1}}, we now run classification and audit reviews for importers handling {{2}}. If your volumes are growing, reply and we will explain how a review can reduce queries.How the category changes what you pay
- Every template is submitted under one category, and Meta assigns the final one in review. A utility template that reads like a promotion can be reclassified as marketing, which changes both the rate and the opt-in requirement.
- Since 1 October 2026, service messages are charged per delivered message after the first 1,000 free service messages per business phone number per month. The allowance does not roll over and there are no volume tiers.
- Inbound messages are free, and a customer-initiated message opens the 24-hour customer service window. Anything you start outside that window needs an approved template.
Customs Clearance Agents on WhatsApp: common questions
Templates for other industries
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