Quick replies on Instagram and Facebook
Prices, shipping, opening hours, availability: the same questions arrive by direct message every day. Here's how to answer them in seconds.
For many shops and local businesses, Instagram and Facebook direct messages are the main support channel. And the questions repeat: how much is it, how long does shipping take, is it in stock, what time do you open.
Here's what tools Meta offers so you don't type the same thing every time, how to reply from your computer and some example messages.
The options Meta offers
- Saved replies in Meta Business Suite: in the inbox that brings together Facebook and Instagram messages, you can save frequent replies to reuse them.
- Quick replies on Instagram: professional accounts (business or creator) can save replies to use in direct messages, mainly from the app.
- Chat FAQs: Instagram lets you set up to four questions with automatic answers that appear when someone opens a conversation.
Replying from your computer
If you handle lots of messages, a computer is more comfortable than a phone. Instagram direct messages are available on the web at instagram.com, and Facebook messages can be answered from facebook.com or the Meta Business Suite inbox. The Messenger desktop app for Windows and Mac is no longer available.
The downside is that each tool has its own saved replies, and they're not always available in every version.
Shortcut replies in the browser
With NexoPad you save your replies once and use them on Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp Web or email, from your browser. For example, with the shortcut /shipping NexoPad asks for the customer's name and the shipping time, then writes the full reply.
If you forget the shortcut, type // in the message box and search for the reply by name.
Messages worth having ready
Shipping
Hi [name]! We ship nationwide in [timeframe] and shipping is free on orders over [amount]. You can order here: [link].
Price and stock
Hi [name]! The [product] costs [price] and it's in stock right now. Shall I send you the link to buy it?
Hours and location
Hi! We're at [address] and open [hours]. See you soon!
Out of hours
Thanks for messaging us! We're closed right now, but we'll reply first thing tomorrow 😊
Frequently asked questions
Can I reply to Instagram messages from my computer?
Yes. Direct messages are available at instagram.com, and you can also manage them from Meta Business Suite.
Is the Messenger desktop app still available?
No. Meta retired the Messenger desktop app for Windows and Mac. You can use Messenger in your browser at facebook.com.
Does NexoPad work in the Instagram mobile app?
No. NexoPad is a desktop browser extension, so it works when you use Instagram or Facebook on your computer.
What about WhatsApp?
It works there too, in WhatsApp Web. We explain how in our guide to quick replies in WhatsApp Web.
Published on October 11, 20266 min read
Try NexoPad for free
Text shortcuts, notes, links and AI in any tab. Install it in under a minute.