Types of Sender IDs

Types of SMS Sender IDs and Their Uses

There are 4 types of Sender IDs in SMS: Short Code, Long Codes, Toll Free Numbers and Alphanumerics. Five main considerations are of special importance when selecting which one to use. The availability of a certain Sender ID, their relevance and their cost may vary depending on the country where you’re operating.

1. Purpose of Communication: Determine whether your SMS needs are for marketing, transactional, or customer service purposes.
2. Volume of Messages: Short codes and TFNs are better for high-volume messaging, while long codes are suitable for moderate volumes.
3. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that your choice of sender ID complies with local regulations and carrier guidelines. COntact us in case of any doubt.
4. Customer Trust: Use alphanumeric IDs for brand recognition or local long codes for building local trust.
5. Cost: Consider the cost associated with each type of sender ID, balancing it with the benefits they provide.

1. Short Codes – E.g.: 12345

Description

• Length: Typically 5-6 digits
• Type: Numeric
• Example: 12345

Advantages

• High Throughput: Can send a large volume of messages quickly.
• Memorability: Easier for customers to remember.
• Trustworthy: Often recognized as legitimate by customers.

Use Cases

• Marketing Campaigns: Ideal for sending promotional messages to large audiences.
• Voting and Surveys: Commonly used for customer feedback and interactive campaigns.
• Notifications and Alerts: Suitable for sending urgent updates or alerts (e.g., bank notifications, travel updates).

2. Long Codes – E.g.: 408 329 2255

Description

• Length: Typically 10 digits
• Type: Numeric
• Example: 123-456-7890

Advantages

• Local Presence: Can appear as a local number, which builds trust.
• Cost-Effective: Cheaper than short codes for lower volume messaging.
• Two-Way Communication: Allows for receiving replies from customers.

Use Cases

• Customer Service: Good for ongoing customer support and communication.
• Transactional Messages: Ideal for confirmations, reminders, and alerts.
• Localized Campaigns: Effective for regional or localized marketing efforts.

3. Toll-Free Numbers (TFNs) – E.g.: 800 1329 2255

Description

• Length: Typically 10 digits, starting with a toll-free prefix (e.g., 800, 888)
• Type: Numeric
• Example: 1-800-123-4567

Advantages

• Free for Recipients: Customers are not charged for receiving messages.
• Brand Consistency: Often used for both voice and SMS, maintaining a consistent contact point.
• High Throughput: Supports a higher volume of messages compared to standard long codes.

Use Cases

• Customer Support: Perfect for providing support and ensuring customers can reach you for free.
• Mass Notifications: Suitable for sending important updates and alerts.
• Marketing: Effective for broad marketing campaigns.

4. Alphanumeric Sender IDs – E.g.: “Google”

Description

• Length: Up to 11 characters
• Type: Alphanumeric (letters and numbers)
• Example: BRANDNAME

Advantages

• Brand Recognition: Clearly displays the brand name, enhancing recognition.
• Trust and Legitimacy: Customers can easily identify the sender.
• No Replies: Prevents receiving replies, which is useful for one-way communication.

Use Cases

• Promotional Messages: Ideal for marketing and brand promotions.
• Notifications and Alerts: Good for sending important updates where replies are not needed.
• Transactional Messages: Effective for confirmations and information messages.