How to Schedule WhatsApp Messages: Your Go to Guide

No one wants to copy-paste the same message ten times a day. Whether it’s a product launch reminder, a lead follow-up, or a customer nudge you almost forgot to send, this is where WhatsApp scheduling comes in.

Whether you are a small, mid-sized, or enterprise-sized business, scheduling your WhatsApp messages in advance can make sales conversations smoother, scale revenue, and optimize your lead pipelines. But the question is, how do you do that?

This guide will take you through the right WhatsApp schedulers for Android, iOS, and web users. By learning how to schedule messages, you can personalize conversations at scale while staying secure and compliant. Let’s dive in!

What Are The Different Types of WhatsApp Scheduling?

Understanding the right method to reach your audience depends on your end goal. Generally, WhatsApp scheduling falls into three main categories, each serving a different purpose.

Now, let’s understand how to schedule WhatsApp messages on each WhatsApp platform. Ready to get started? 

How To Schedule WhatsApp Messages on Android?

For Android users, who make up over 70% of the global smartphone market, the simplest path to scheduling messages is through a trusted third-party app. One such tool is SKEDit, which is a powerful and user-friendly WhatsApp scheduler.

1. Download and set up: Head over to the Google Play Store, search for “SKEDit,” and install it. You’ll need to create an account to get started.

2. Choose Your Time and Date: On the main menu, tap the + icon and select “WhatsApp”. Once you select “WhatsApp from main menu”, the app will prompt you to enable access. Open the app and pick a WhatsApp contact or group. Then select time and date.

3. Set automation repetition: If you want, you can repeat the message to be sent at different time intervals.

4. Craft and Schedule Your Message: Tap “Add WhatsApp Recipient” and choose the contact or group from your list. Type out the message you want to send. You can even attach images, videos, or documents. Set your desired date and time. You can also choose to repeat the message at regular intervals (perfect for weekly team check-ins!).

5. SKEDit will notify you once the scheduled message is successfully sent.

Note: With SKEDit, you cannot schedule multiple messages simultaneously. Also, before you save, you’ll see a toggle for “Ask me before sending.” If you turn this off, the message will be sent automatically without any user interaction.

Also check out the right consumer engagement techniques through WhatsApp Broadcast vs WhatsApp Group guide and personalize your sales outreach effectively to scale revenue.

How to Schedule WhatsApp Messages on iPhone (The Built-in Method)

iPhone users do not have to rely on an API or third-party tool to schedule responses via WhatsApp for their customers. With the “Shortcut” app, you can automate a fair share of WhatsApp messages and send them at the right time to your prospects. 

However, as Apple claims to care a lot about user privacy, scheduling WhatsApp messages on iPhone and iOS devices is more challenging than on Android. Here is how:

1. Search & install the Shortcuts app: It’s pre-installed on most iPhones. If you can’t find it, a quick search in the App Store will bring it to the top.

2. Create a Personal Automation: Tap the “Automation” tab at the bottom, then the + icon in the top right. Select “Create Personal Automation.”

3. Set Your Trigger: Choose the blue “+” sign to initiate new automation. Click on create personal automation to set up a new WhatsApp schedule for customers.

4.Set Your Trigger: Choose “Time of Day” as your trigger. Set the exact time and date you want your message to go out. Under “Repeat,” you can choose Daily, Weekly, or Monthly.

5. Add Your Message Action: Tap “Next,” then “Add Action.” In the search bar, type “Text” and select the “Text” option from the results. In the text box that appears, type the exact message you want to schedule.

6. Add the WhatsApp Action: Now, tap the blue “+” button below the text box and search for “WhatsApp.” Select “Send Message via WhatsApp” from the list of actions.

7. Choose Your Recipient: After typing the message, tap the ”+” icon—type “WhatsApp” in the search bar on the pop-up. Tap on the faint “Recipient” placeholder and select the contact you want to message.

8. Finalize the message: Select “Send Message Through WhatsApp” as the dropdown appears. Next, select the contact whoever you wish to schedule that WhatsApp message & then toggle to Next.

9.  Finalize the automation: Tap “Next.” Here, you’ll see a crucial toggle: “Ask Before Running.” Make sure to turn this OFF. This ensures the automation runs automatically without needing your approval. Tap “Done,” and your scheduled message is ready to go!

10. Sit back after setting automation: Once you click the notification, it will open your WhatsApp account with the message ready to be sent to the recipient. All you have to do is click send.

With most of us using WhatsApp on our mobile devices, you might wonder if there’s a way to schedule messages through WhatsApp Web. Well, SURPRISE!! There’s a way to do that.

How To Schedule WhatsApp Messages On WhatsApp Web?

With WhatsApp Web generating 2.5 billion unique visits each month and remaining one of the top direct sources of traffic, it has significant sales potential for B2B enterprises. 

If you attribute WhatsApp engagement to a browser, scheduling messages directly from your browser can be incredibly efficient. The best way to do this is with a Chrome extension, such as Blueticks.

1. Install the Extension: Head to the Chrome Web Store, install the Blueticks extension and verify if the released version supports WhatsApp web updates.

2. Log in to WhatsApp Web: Open WhatsApp Web on your browser and link your account as you normally would.

3. Open a Chat: Navigate to the individual or group chat you want to schedule a message for.  Write your message, select the exact date and time, and click “Schedule Send.” Your message is now queued up and will be sent automatically, as long as your computer is on and connected to the internet.

4. Now, you see the message you want to send is scheduled and ready.

Now that we’ve explored options for scheduling messages using WhatsApp. Ready to move on to WhatsApp Business?

Why schedule WhatsApp Messages with WhatsApp Business API?

In 2025, conversational commerce is no longer a buzzword; it’s a reality. A study by The Economic Times found that 91% of customers feel more optimistic about a brand after actively participating, while 40% feel more loyal.

While WhatsApp scheduling is effective and convenient, the real power lies in end-to-end sales automation. The standard WhatsApp Business App allows you to set basic “Away” and “Greeting” messages, but it can’t schedule specific campaigns or reminders.

This is where the WhatsApp Business API comes in.

WhatsApp Business API provides a standard, secure gateway to manage campaign infrastructures and regulate brand responses from your WhatsApp Business accounts. It keeps a steady bridge between customers and the brand, and emphasizes quick service at the right time to personalize customer experience. Powerful discipline builds greater loyalty and results in steadier conversions.

With a WhatsApp Business API like Wati, you can build powerful, scalable messaging solutions, and scheduling is one of its most critical features. Wati enables you to build powerful customer experiences that make people feel more connected, and improve your brand positioning in the market.

Top customer use cases of scheduling WhatsApp messages with Wati

With a platform like Wati, which is built on the API, you can:

1. Schedule Bulk Broadcasts: Send promotional offers, updates, or newsletters to thousands of customers at once, scheduled for the optimal time. With WhatsApp messages having an average open rate of 98%, this is far more effective than email.
   
2. Automate Reminders: Schedule appointment reminders, payment due dates, or abandoned cart notifications to reduce no-shows and increase conversions.
   
3. Run Drip Campaigns: Create a series of scheduled messages to nurture new leads or onboard new customers over several days or weeks.
   
4. Ensure Delivery: Unlike the methods above that require your phone to be on and connected, messages sent via the API are sent from the cloud, guaranteeing delivery at the scheduled time.

Want to learn more? Check out our guide on Leveraging WhatsApp for Conversational Commerce.

How to Schedule WhatsApp Messages on Wati?

To send bulk WhatsApp messages using Wati, follow these simple steps (Also, check out this blog):

1. Create a Contact List

Start by importing your contacts into the Wati platform. For maximum impact, segment your contacts into relevant groups based on factors like their interests, location, or purchase history. This helps you send targeted messages and increase engagement.

2. Craft Your Message or choose a template

Take the time to write a compelling message that resonates with your audience. Keep it concise, clear, and relevant. Alternatively, you can choose from Wati’s pre-designed message templates that align with your campaign’s goals and brand voice.

Special Resource 👉: Improve Your WhatsApp Broadcast Score Instantly

3. Personalize Your Message

Customized messages can better attract audience attention and amplify overall brand experience. With Wati, you can use variables to include the recipient’s name, the current date, or a relevant location, making your message more engaging and tailored to each user.

4. Schedule and Send

 Preset date and time for message triggers beforehand. Pre-planning and scheduling messages ensures maximum impact and makes an everlasting impact on the customer. With a simple click, you’ll reach out to the audience and engage when it matters most.

You can watch the video for step-by-step guidance on using our bulk WhatsApp sender feature.

Best Practices For Scheduling WhatsApp Messages in 2025

If you are requesting a particular action from the customer, you need to send the WhatsApp message carefully. Only timely messages can deliver results and conversions; the rest will be ignored or dumped away.

Here are the best practices you can follow if you are managing a WhatsApp scheduler for your business:

1. Respect time zones and quiet hours

 A well-timed message is helpful, and an untimely message seems pushy. Always schedule messages according to your recipient’s local time zone and be mindful of cultural norms around business hours and weekends. Sending a promotional message at 3 AM is a surefire way to get blocked, which can damage your brand’s reputation.

Real-Life Example: A marketing agency in Mumbai wants to send a campaign update to a client in London. Instead of scheduling it for 11 AM IST (6:30 AM in London), they schedule it for 3 PM IST (10:30 AM in London), ensuring it arrives during the client’s working hours.

2. Prioritize personalization and value

Go beyond just using a name; reference past purchases, appointments, or interests. This turns a generic broadcast into a meaningful one-on-one conversation, dramatically increasing engagement and building customer loyalty.

Real-life example:  An e-commerce store, instead of sending a generic “Sale is on!”, schedules this message: “Hi Priya! We saw you loved the blue running shoes. The new V2 model is now in stock in your size! Would you like to take a look before they’re gone?

3. Secure explicit opt-in

Make it a rule to prompt users for WhatsApp opt-ins, and take their consent. Scheduling broadcasts or chats without consent raises concerns and is detrimental to brand image. It isn’t just a policy to avoid getting your account flagged; it is a foundation of a trust-based relationship and ensures you’re only messaging a receptive audience.

Real-life example: During online checkout, a customer ticks a box that says, “Yes, send my order updates and exclusive offers to me on WhatsApp.” This provides clear, documented consent for future marketing messages.

4. Keep your messaging clear and concise

Your messages should be short, scannable, and get straight to the point. Use formatting like bold text for key details, bullet points for lists, and emojis (sparingly) to add personality. Avoid long paragraphs that require users to scroll extensively.

Real-life example: Instead of sending a long paragraph, a clinic sends this reminder: “Hi Sameer! Just a friendly reminder about your dental appointment with Dr. Sharma on Wednesday, Oct 15th, at 4 PM. Please reply YES to confirm.

5. Include a clear call to action

Every scheduled message should guide the user on what to do next. Whether it’s “Click here to track your order,” “Reply YES to learn more,” or “Visit our website for 20% off,” a clear CTA turns a passive message into an interactive one. This drives the conversation forward and makes your campaign’s success measurable.

Real life example: A travel company schedules a flash sale alert: “Hi Arjun!, Fares to Goa are 30% off for the next 48 hours only. Don’t miss out! Book your dream trip now: [link].”

You can follow these guidelines and transform your scheduled messages from simple notifications into powerful tools for building customer relationships and driving business growth.

Need help figuring out compliance? Check out our guide on how to collect WhatsApp opt-ins from customers in 2025.

Tips & Best Practices for Scheduling WhatsApp Messages

Here are some practical tips and best practices to ensure you’re scheduling messages like the pro you are.

Plan Your Content Calendar: 

Start with a clear plan. What do you want to communicate, and when? Sketch out a content calendar. Highlight special days, promotional periods, or any dates specific to your business that warrant a shout-out. This approach ensures you’re not just sending messages, but sending valuable content that resonates with your customers’ needs and expectations.

Respect the Clock (and Time Zones): 

Are your customers spread across different regions? Factor in those time zones. You want your message to ping when it’s relevant, not when your customer is fast asleep. Check and double-check the timing. Your attention to this detail won’t go unnoticed and shows you respect your customers’ time.

Craft Clear, Concise Messages: 

No one likes reading a text that feels like an endless scroll. Keep your messages short, sweet, and to the point. Before scheduling, ask yourself: Is this clear? Can I make it shorter? Your customers will appreciate your respect for their time, especially when your message is a breeze to read.

Personalization is Key

 Your customers are individuals, not just entries in your contact list. Use their names, reference past purchases, or mention their preferences. It might seem like a small touch, but this personalization makes your customers feel seen and valued. It transforms your message from a generic broadcast into a personal note.

Double-Check Your Links and Information

Are you including a link to a new product or your website? Maybe you’re sharing a phone number for bookings? Whatever it is, click those links and check those digits! A non-working link or incorrect number isn’t just inconvenient; it can erode your customers’ trust and professional image.

Use a Reliable Third-Party App

Since WhatsApp doesn’t directly offer a scheduling feature, you’ll need a dependable third-party app. Do your research, read reviews, and perhaps invest in a trusted service. The smoother the app works, the smoother your communication strategy will be.

Regular Reviews and Updates

 Set aside some time each week or month to review your scheduled messages. Are there any new developments your customers need to know about? Any sudden changes in the market? Stay agile; keep your messages up-to-date and relevant.

Welcome Feedback

Encourage your customers to share their thoughts. Did they find a particular message helpful? Would they like more info on certain topics? This two-way communication makes your customers feel involved and can provide you with invaluable insights.

Avoid Spamming

Last but definitely not least, don’t overdo it. Too many messages can annoy your customers and lead them to mute your notifications or even block you. Maintain a balance between staying present and overstepping.

Also Read: Exploring WhatsApp Features: Tips for Business and Personal Use

Turn Scheduled Messages into Smarter Sales

The power to schedule WhatsApp messages transforms your communication from reactive to proactive. Whether you’re using a third-party app for quick reminders or a robust WhatsApp Business API platform like Wati for large-scale campaigns, the goal is the same: to engage the right prospect at the perfect time.

This isn’t just about saving time. It’s about building a smarter, more consistent sales strategy. When you keep customers informed with timely, personalized messages, you build an image of a reliable and caring brand. This trust is the foundation for stronger relationships and, ultimately, more conversions.

If you’re ready to move beyond basic scheduling and unlock the full potential of conversational commerce, exploring a solution like Wati is your next logical step. Start scheduling today, and turn every conversation into an opportunity.

How To Schedule WhatsApp Messages: Frequently Asked Questions

Got more questions? We’ve tried answering them below!