Shared Short Codes for Texting are Going Away: Now What?

You’ve likely seen SMS short codes before—those five or six-digit numbers used for marketing campaigns, reminders, and other mobile marketing messages. Short codes are easy-to-remember, compact, and perfect for high-volume text message marketing campaigns.

Shared short codes, in particular, allowed multiple businesses to use the same digit number for SMS and MMS messages at scale.

Wireless carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile have announced that businesses will no longer be able to use shared short codes for sending text messages. Instead, companies must opt for a dedicated short code or consider other options like toll-free numbers or 10-digit long codes (10DLC). This shift improves customer experience and user experience by giving businesses more control over their keywords, reducing SPAM, and enhancing functionality for SMS campaigns.

With a dedicated short code, you’re not at risk if another brand using the same short code number doesn’t follow compliance. Plus, you gain exclusive use of keywords for your marketing efforts, which can significantly boost brand awareness and message clarity.

With shared short codes going away, it’s important to understand the other options you’ll be able to choose from, including using dedicated short codes, toll-free numbers, or a local number.

Dedicated Short Codes

Businesses can switch to a dedicated short code, leased monthly. These short codes can either be random or customized as a vanity short code, where companies choose specific, memorable numbers. Vanity short codes, though pricier (about $1,000/month), allow for unique branding and higher customer experience value.

Toll-Free Numbers

TFNs, or toll-free numbers, can now send and receive both SMS messages and MMS messages. Beginning with 8XX, they offer a cost-effective option for high throughput messaging. Although they are a 10-digit long code instead of a short code, they still enable mass messaging and deliverability.

Local Number Messaging

If neither dedicated short codes nor TFNs fit your needs, a 10-digit long code linked to your local area is another alternative. This can be beneficial for businesses in the United States and Canada, providing a familiar phone number for localized communication.

You can also take advantage of using Sakari’s hosted messaging services. This allows you to use your existing landline number or VoIP to send text messages using Sakari SMS.

The end of shared short codes doesn’t mean an end to efficient messaging. Sakari helps businesses transition smoothly by selecting the most effective phone number type for their specific needs.

With Sakari, you can set up text message marketing campaigns, automate notifications, and support your mobile marketing initiatives seamlessly.

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Shared Short Code FAQs

Why are shared short codes being phased out?

Wireless carriers are ending shared short codes to improve deliverability, security, and compliance. This shift to dedicated short codes or alternative options reduces SPAM and enhances user experience.

What is the difference between shared and dedicated short codes?

Shared short codes allow multiple businesses to use the same short code number, while dedicated short codes are exclusive to one brand, offering more control over keywords and optimizing marketing campaigns.

Are toll-free numbers effective for SMS marketing?

Toll-free numbers (TFNs) offer a cost-effective alternative for text messages, with an 8XX prefix supporting both SMS and MMS messages, enabling high volume messaging.

Can I use a 10-digit local number for SMS?

A 10-digit long code (10DLC) is a viable option, particularly in the United States and Canada, providing a local touch with high throughput for application-to-person messaging.

How does Sakari support compliance with new SMS policies?

Sakari assists businesses in staying compliant by guiding them to select the appropriate phone number type—whether dedicated short codes, 10DLC, or others. Sakari ensures alignment with mobile carriers’ standards for secure, effective SMS marketing.