Are you looking for a more efficient way to communicate with your clientele? Then it’s time to unlock the power of seamless communication and get sms shortcode! SMS Astral’s shortcode services are a great solution for businesses and affiliates looking to send and receive SMS messages.
The easy-to-remember sms shortcodes allow you to brand your messages and generate a higher response rate. They are easy to use, with automated replies and higher throughput.
What is an SMS shortcode?
An SMS shortcode is a shortened telephone number, typically 5 or 6 digits, used for sending and receiving SMS messages. Shortcode SMS are typically easier to remember than regular phone numbers and can be employed for various purposes, such as sending alerts, coupons, and promotional messages. Whether you run a company or work as an affiliate, if you buy an SMS shortcode, you will be able to communicate more effectively with customers or members via text message.
Although obtaining a shortcode can take several weeks to a few months, the process is worth it for the added benefits. However, it is essential to note that currently, only registered companies can apply, and there is a sign-up fee and a monthly contribution of between $500 and $1,500.
Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that your data is GDPR compliant (General Data Protection Regulation) as per EU regulations to avoid any issues with network providers or fines. Before obtaining an SMS shortcode, we recommend conducting a data audit within your company and identifying what personal data your organization collects, stores, uses, or processes and where it is located. You also have to prove that you have obtained explicit consent from your customers for collecting, storing, and processing their data.
What are the benefits of an SMS shortcode?
Shortcodes have many advantages over regular phone numbers, including
Easy to remember: Shortcodes are typically shorter and more accessible than regular phone numbers, making it more likely that customers will find it easier to text your shortcode instead of a phone number.
Branding: Shortcodes can be branded and associated with a specific company or organization, making it easy for customers to identify the sender of a text message.
Higher response rate: Statistics show that shortcodes generate a higher response rate than regular phone numbers, as they are typically used for specific campaigns or promotions.
Automated replies: Shortcodes can be configured to send automatic responses to text messages, making it easy to respond to customer inquiries or requests.
Higher throughput: Shortcodes can handle more text messages than regular phone numbers.
Cost-effective: The overall SMS Shortcode cost is lower compared to using regular phone numbers for your sms messaging service, particularly if you plan to send a high volume of text messages.
Two-way communication: Shortcodes allow for two-way communication, so businesses can send and receive customer texts.
Customizable: Shortcodes can be customized to fit the needs of a business and can be used for many purposes, such as sending alerts, coupons, and promotional messages.
Expand your customer base: Using shortcode SMS enables you to reach out to customers around the globe. SMS Astral has agreements with local telecom operators, allowing us to provide shortcode numbers to companies and affiliates operating in various countries, including the USA and Canada. However, the process, regulations, and cost may vary depending on the country, so it’s best to check with us to learn more about the availability and specifics of shortcodes in your area.
How to enable shortcode SMS?
Acquiring a unique shortcode from SMS Astral is easy. Let our dedicated team guide you through the setup and maintenance process, making sure you’re always connected to your customers.
Configure your messaging platform: Once you have obtained a shortcode, you will need to configure your messaging platform to send and receive messages using that shortcode. This typically involves setting up an SMS gateway and connecting it to your shortcode.
SMS shortcode lookup: To send and receive shortcode SMS, we will need to register with the wireless carriers in your area. This registration process will vary depending on the guidelines of the specific telecommunication service and the regulations in each country. Our SMS Astral lookup service allows you to verify that the shortcode is legitimate and that the messages associated with the shortcode are appropriate for their needs.
Test your shortcode: After completing the setup and registration process, it is crucial to test your shortcode to ensure it works correctly before applying it to your SMS communications.
You can now start using your unique shortcode to send and receive SMS messages.
How to get your own shortcode SMS text number?
At SMS Astral, you will find a seamless process for obtaining your unique shortcode, with a reputable carrier, a wide range of available shortcodes for you to choose from, and clear contracts outlining the terms and conditions.
And with the registration process with wireless carriers and message content approval handled by us, you can focus on reaching your customers effectively.
Plus, our shortcode service ensures that the message content is not offensive or spammy and follows the carrier’s guidelines, and we offer to test your shortcode to ensure it’s working correctly before you start using it.
With our 24/7 customer and technical support, you will receive help and support with any questions related to your shortcode SMS at any time of the day. This may include assistance with setting up and configuring your shortcode, troubleshooting technical issues, and any other queries you may have.
