Should you use shortcodes? How about long codes? And what is all the talk about 10DLC? Here’s what you should know.
What Is SMS?
In the past, most SMS marketing was done technically by sending bulk text messages to a company’s SMS list using shared 5 to 6-digit phone numbers. These numbers were referred to as “shared short codes.”
In the U.S. and Canada, application-to-person (A2P) communications often occur via 5 to 6-digit “shortcodes.” Short codes are the ideal corporate messaging channel for high-volume messaging or other cases where timely message delivery is crucial.
Since sending an SMS message does not include installing new software or learning new technology, shortcodes are simple to use. So many people may be reached using shortcodes at a relatively minimal cost. After all, billions of texts are sent and received every day.
What Is SMS Short Code Best For?
Dedicated short codes are ideal for businesses and organizations that want to deliver time-sensitive communications to big audiences and those who like to incorporate multimedia material in their messages.
The Evolution of SMS Marketing
Innovations in SMS changed marketing from focusing on shortcodes to adopting long codes for increased customer engagement. What was once a person-to-person medium is now a business-to-consumer channel that brands can leverage. The latest innovation for SMS marketing – 10DLC provides a better platform for marketers to advertise.
What Is 10DLC?
U.S. Carriers have devised a formal system called 10DLC (10-digit long code) to safeguard and enhance A2P text messaging.
The objective of 10DLC is to eliminate the need for both universally shared short codes and unverified long codes. With local, easily identifiable phone numbers, long codes are an effective medium to build the confidence and popularity of a business in a particular area. With 10DLC, you’ll have a single, consolidated number for your SMS, MMS, and voice communications with consumers.
Here are some of the other valuable features of commercial long codes:
- Higher volume business messaging
- Higher security
- Meets requirements for mass text messaging
- Allows receiving of phone calls
- Increases customer engagement
- Less expensive than shortcodes
- Better brand control
What is 10DLC Best For?
Through 10DLC, you can send bulk marketing and transactional texts without the high costs often associated with using shortcodes. The current transmission rate for 10DLC is between 5-15 messages per second.
However, a short code is preferred if you can send thousands of SMS simultaneously. Two-factor authentication notifications, payment and appointment reminders, and purchase confirmations are just some of the functions of a 10DLC number. Due to the approval procedure with carriers required to get a 10DLC number, deliverability is often higher with 10DLC numbers.
Wrapping Up
Selecting a number for outgoing and incoming text messages is a significant move in establishing a vital new line of contact with your clients. Contact us to discuss further if you need more information about SMS and 10DLC. We’re excited to hear from you.