WhatsApp QR Code for Business: Let Customers Message You in One Scan
Create a WhatsApp QR code that opens a chat with your number and a pre-filled message. Static vs dynamic, message templates by industry, placements, and troubleshooting.
A WhatsApp QR code opens a chat with your business number the moment it is scanned, with the first message already typed. For shops, clinics, agents, trades and restaurants it converts better than a phone number (nobody wants to call) or a contact form (nobody wants to wait). Here is how to create one, what to pre-fill, and where it earns its space.
How it works
The code points to a wa.me link containing your number in international format (for example +91 for India, +1 for the US) and an optional message. The phone opens WhatsApp, finds or creates the chat, and the customer only has to tap Send. You do not need WhatsApp Business for this, though it helps with auto-replies and a catalogue.
Create a WhatsApp QR code
- Open the generator (no account for a static code) or sign in and choose WhatsApp under Create QR for a dynamic one.
- Enter the number with country code, digits only:
+14155550123. - Add a pre-filled message such as "Hi! I'd like to book a table" or "I saw your sign and want a quote".
- Brand it with your logo, download, print with "Chat on WhatsApp" next to it.
Static or dynamic?
| Static | Dynamic | |
|---|---|---|
| Change the number or message later | Reprint | Edit in dashboard |
| Know how many chats each sign starts | No | Yes, per code |
| Route different signs to different staff numbers | One code per number | Redirect any code to any number at any time |
| Cost | Free, no account | Free plan: 3 codes |
If the number might change (a staff phone, a seasonal line) or you want to compare placements, use dynamic. Guide: WhatsApp chat QR.
Pre-filled messages that work
- Restaurants: "Hi, I'd like to reserve a table for ___ on ___."
- Salons and clinics: "Hi, I'd like to book an appointment."
- Trades: "Hi, I saw your van and would like a quote for ___."
- Retail: "Hi, is this item in stock: ___?"
- Real estate: "Hi, I'm interested in the property at ___."
- Support: "Order number: ___. My question: ___."
Include the context (which sign, which product) in the message so you know where the lead came from even before you look at analytics.
Where to place it
- Shop window, so people can ask when you are closed.
- Vehicles and site boards for trades.
- Product packaging for support and reorders.
- Flyers, business cards, and receipts.
- Your website and Instagram bio, for desktop visitors who want to chat on their phone.
Troubleshooting
- Opens a blank chat: the number is missing the country code or has spaces/dashes.
- "Phone number shared via URL is invalid": the number is not registered on WhatsApp.
- Message not pre-filled: some older WhatsApp versions ignore it; keep the message short and avoid emoji.
Create your WhatsApp QR code and let customers start the conversation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need WhatsApp Business for a WhatsApp QR code?
No. Any WhatsApp number works. WhatsApp Business adds away messages and a catalogue, which help once chats start arriving.
Can I pre-fill the message?
Yes. Add a message such as "Hi, I'd like a quote for…" when creating the code; the customer only taps Send.
Is a WhatsApp QR code free?
A static one is free with no account on the QR Walrus homepage. Dynamic codes, which you can edit and track, are included in the Free plan.