WhatsApp Templates · Shipping Agencies
WhatsApp message templates for shipping agencies
Shipping agencies need six templates, five utility and one marketing. The utility set covers vessel ETAs, berth and schedule changes, cargo release, port charges due and crew or husbandry updates, while the marketing message offers a service the shipowner or agent has not used yet.
Port calls change by the hour and a berth slot lost to a late notification is expensive. WhatsApp delivers schedule and release notices to owners, charterers and crew without email lag.
Vessel ETA and schedule notice
UtilitySend it when: A vessel is approaching port for a scheduled call
Hi {{1}}, vessel {{2}} is now expected at {{3}} on {{4}} at {{5}}. Berthing prospects and the pilot arrangement follow once the agent confirms the slot.Berth change notification
UtilitySend it when: The assigned berth or window has shifted
Hi {{1}}, the berth for vessel {{2}} has moved from {{3}} to {{4}}, with a revised working window of {{5}}. Please advise the terminal and haulage team accordingly.Cargo release notice
UtilitySend it when: Discharge is complete and cargo is released
Hi {{1}}, cargo from vessel {{2}} under bill {{3}} is released as of {{4}}. Collection can proceed against the delivery order during {{5}}.Port charges reminder
UtilitySend it when: Disbursements or port charges for a call are due
Hi {{1}}, the port disbursement account for {{2}} totals {{3}} and is due by {{4}}. Kindly arrange settlement so we can close the call and release final documents.Crew and husbandry update
UtilitySend it when: A crew change, spares or provisions movement is in progress
Hi {{1}}, arrangements for {{2}} are confirmed for {{3}} at {{4}}. The launch is booked and we will confirm once the formalities at the port are complete.Agency service offer
MarketingSend it when: Promoting an additional agency service to an owner
Hi {{1}}, we have expanded our {{2}} desk for vessels calling {{3}}. If it is useful, reply and we will share our tariff and coverage for port calls in the region.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.
Shipping Agencies on WhatsApp: common questions
Templates for other industries
Send these from your own number, with a team behind it
BNex runs the official Meta WhatsApp Cloud API with a shared inbox, campaign broadcasts and a visual flow builder. Connect a number, submit these templates, and start on the free plan — no credit card.