Short Codes vs. Long Codes: Understanding Your Texting Options
When utilizing Voizee’s texting software, you have the option to send messages using either a short code, long code, or a combination of both. Deciding which texting number is best suited for your business or organization depends on your specific needs and budget.
What is a Short Code?
A short code is a 5-digit number that provides a highly effective solution for high-volume messaging. It offers reliable, non-carrier-filtered two-way communication and supports emojis and multiple languages. Short codes are the quickest way for your audience to engage, making it easy for them to text in.
In the United States, short codes are leased through the Short Code Registry. You can lease these numbers for varying durations, such as quarterly or annually, but keep in mind that you don’t own them.
Voizee partners with the Short Code Registry to offer dedicated short codes, which are exclusively used by your organization. These short codes boast a remarkable average throughput, allowing you to send 300 messages per second. Typically, we complete the carrier approval process in just 2-4 weeks, which is faster than the industry standard of 6-8 weeks, and we strive to keep costs low by absorbing the setup and pass-through carrier fees.
What is a Long Code?
A long code is a standard 10-digit phone number that usually includes a local area code. This option is generally more affordable for mass texting, especially for organizations with budget constraints.
Using a long code has its benefits: messages appear more personal, recipients can save the number in their contacts, and it fosters two-way conversations seamlessly. Voizee registers all long codes as A2P 10DLC numbers, making them a viable choice for non-carrier-filtered communication.
Understanding A2P Registration
A2P 10DLC is a necessary registration process for carriers when using 10-digit local numbers for mass texting. This is important because carriers may block messages from unregistered numbers. By using a registered long code, you can expect faster message delivery and reduced spam. At Voizee, we cover any registration costs, ensuring that there are no additional fees for you.
Short Code vs. Long Code: Which Should You Use?
The decision between using a short code or a long code ultimately hinges on your texting strategy.
- Cost: While dedicated short codes are incredibly effective, they come with a higher price tag (typically $500/month for a random number and $1,000/month for a custom one). In contrast, long codes generally only require the cost of your Voizee plan, making them a budget-friendly option for many organizations.
- Volume: Short codes are designed for high-volume messaging. With Voizee’s short codes, you can send a message to 10,000 recipients in about 30 seconds. Long codes may have lower throughput but are perfectly suitable for smaller-scale campaigns.
- Ease of Use: Short codes are easier for your audience to remember and text. For example, a short code like “Text Join to 91800” is simpler than a long code format, such as “Text Join to (630) 850-9521.”
- Use Case: If your communication needs are more about low-volume interactions, such as following up with customers or gathering feedback, long codes may suffice. For larger organizations looking to send mass texts multiple times a week, a dedicated short code is recommended.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the right choice for your business or organization will depend on your specific communication goals. By leveraging the strengths of both short codes and long codes, you can enhance your outreach and engagement effectively. With Voizee, you can find the perfect texting solution to fit your needs.
