In today's mobile-driven world, businesses are increasingly relying on SMS messaging to communicate with their customers. One of the most significant developments in this area is the introduction of 10DLC (10-Digit Long Code), which has transformed how companies use text messaging for their marketing and communication strategies. This article delves into what 10DLC is, how to register a 10DLC number, the benefits it offers, and the restrictions you need to be aware of.
What is 10DLC?
10DLC, or 10-Digit Long Code, is a type of phone number specifically designed for Application-to-Person (A2P) messaging. Unlike the short codes that many companies used for bulk messaging, 10DLC allows businesses to send text messages using standard, 10-digit phone numbers. This development bridges the gap between Person-to-Person (P2P) communication and A2P messaging, providing a more personalized and recognizable way for companies to engage with their customers.
10DLC has gained popularity because it enables businesses to use local numbers to send high volumes of messages while complying with carrier regulations and ensuring message deliverability.
Key Features of 10DLC
Local Number Format: Uses a standard 10-digit number that looks like a regular phone number, making it more familiar and trustworthy for recipients.
Higher Messaging Volumes: Unlike regular P2P numbers, 10DLC supports A2P messaging at a higher volume, which is ideal for business use.
Carrier-Approved: 10DLC routes are sanctioned by mobile carriers, ensuring compliance with regulations and improving delivery rates.
Cost-Effective: It’s more affordable than dedicated short codes, making it accessible for small to medium-sized businesses.
How to Register a 10DLC Number
To use 10DLC, businesses must register their number with mobile carriers. The registration process ensures that companies comply with regulations and that carriers can monitor messaging behavior to protect consumers from spam and fraud.
Steps to Register a 10DLC Number
Choose a Messaging Provider: First, you’ll need to work with a messaging provider that supports 10DLC. These providers help you register your number and manage your messaging campaigns.
Provide Business Information: As part of the registration process, you’ll need to submit details about your business, including its legal name, industry, and the types of messages you plan to send (e.g., promotional, transactional).
Submit Campaign Information: You’ll also need to provide details about the messaging campaign itself. This includes the purpose of the campaign, the expected message volume, and the message flow (how recipients can opt-in or opt-out).
Compliance Review: After submitting your registration, the carrier will review your application to ensure it complies with the guidelines for A2P messaging. This is a crucial step in preventing spam and ensuring that the number will not be blocked.
Approval and Setup: Once approved, you can start using your registered 10DLC number to send messages. Your messaging provider will handle the technical setup to ensure that messages are properly routed through carrier-approved channels.
Benefits of 10DLC
The introduction of 10DLC offers several advantages for businesses looking to enhance their communication strategies through SMS.
1. Increased Deliverability
Since 10DLC is a carrier-sanctioned messaging route, businesses using it are less likely to have their messages flagged as spam. Carriers prioritize 10DLC messages, improving deliverability rates and ensuring that messages reach their intended recipients.
2. Improved Brand Trust
Messages sent through a recognizable 10-digit number are more likely to be trusted by customers than those sent via short codes or Benefits of 10DLC unfamiliar numbers. Local 10DLC numbers allow businesses to appear more personal and approachable, which can increase engagement.
3. Cost-Effective Messaging
For businesses that cannot afford the high costs associated with short codes, 10DLC offers an affordable alternative. The registration and maintenance fees for 10DLC are lower, making it accessible to smaller companies with tighter budgets.
4. Higher Message Volume Capacity
Unlike traditional long codes that are limited to low-volume, P2P messaging, 10DLC supports high-volume messaging. This makes it suitable for sending bulk notifications, appointment reminders, promotional messages, and other business-related communications.
5. Compliance with Regulations
Registering a 10DLC number ensures that businesses comply with carrier regulations, reducing the risk of fines, message blocking, or other penalties. It also helps protect customers from unwanted spam and fraud.
10DLC Restrictions
While 10DLC provides numerous benefits, it also comes with certain restrictions that businesses need to be aware of to stay compliant and avoid penalties.
1. Mandatory Registration
All businesses using 10DLC must register their numbers with carriers. Failure to do so can result in message blocking or fines. This requirement helps carriers monitor messaging behavior and prevent misuse of the system.
2. Content Restrictions
Carriers have strict rules about the types of content that can be sent through 10DLC. For example, messages related to illegal activities, harmful substances, and adult content are strictly prohibited. Additionally, unsolicited promotional messages may be flagged as spam.
3. Opt-In Requirement
Recipients must explicitly opt in to receive messages from a business using 10DLC. This ensures that customers are not bombarded with unwanted texts. Companies must provide clear opt-in and opt-out instructions in their messages to remain compliant.
4. Message Volume Caps
While 10DLC supports high-volume messaging, there are limits based on the type of campaign and the number of recipients. Businesses that exceed these limits may face additional fees or have their messages throttled to ensure that carriers' networks are not overwhelmed.
5. Carrier-Specific Guidelines
Different mobile carriers may have specific guidelines for 10DLC messaging, including restrictions on certain industries or messaging practices. Businesses must familiarize themselves with these rules to avoid disruptions to their campaigns.
Conclusion
10DLC has revolutionized SMS communication by providing businesses with a cost-effective, scalable, and carrier-approved method for reaching their customers through text messaging. By registering a 10DLC number, businesses can increase their message deliverability, build brand trust, and comply with industry regulations. However, it's crucial to be aware of the content restrictions, mandatory registration requirements, and opt-in protocols to maintain compliance and avoid penalties. When used effectively, 10DLC can be a powerful tool in a company's marketing and communication strategy.