If your business is ready to start sending SMS messages using 10-digit long codes (10DLC), it’s important to follow the correct registration process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you’re set up correctly and compliant.
Glossary of Key Terms
- Brand: The company or organization sending the SMS messages (e.g., your business).
- CSP (Campaign Service Provider): A service provider that enables businesses to manage and send SMS campaigns. Examples include platforms like Hatch.
- MNO (Mobile Network Operator): Wireless carriers like Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile that deliver SMS messages to end users.
- DCA (Direct Connect Aggregator): The intermediary responsible for transmitting SMS messages from the CSP to MNOs. They handle the connection between your CSP and wireless carriers.
- TCR (The Campaign Registry): The organization that manages the registration process for 10DLC campaigns, ensuring compliance and providing campaign IDs.
- Campaign ID: A unique identifier assigned by TCR for each registered SMS campaign.
Step #1: Provide Information to Your CSP
The first step in 10DLC registration is to provide your business information to your Campaign Service Provider (CSP). The CSP handles the registration process on your behalf. You don’t apply directly with the TCR (The Campaign Registry); your CSP will submit the information for you.
Here’s what you’ll need to provide:
- Tax Details: Include your business’s tax identification number (EIN or TID).
- DBA/Brand Name: The name under which your business operates.
- Business Type: Identify whether your business is an LLC, corporation, or sole proprietorship.
- Industry Details: Indicate whether you are a public, private, non-profit, or government organization.
- Contact Information: Your business’s physical address and the primary contact’s information.
- Campaign Details: The types of SMS messages you’ll be sending (e.g., marketing, alerts, customer support).
- Sample Messages: Examples of the messages you plan to send.
- Consent Proof: Evidence of how recipients opted in to receive your messages.
Once your CSP has all the necessary details, they will submit your registration application to TCR, which will assign a unique Campaign ID for your business.
Step #2: DCA Publishes Your Number
After your CSP registers your campaign, they submit the number and campaign ID to the Direct Connect Aggregator (DCA). The DCA enters your number into an industry-wide database, allowing Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) like Verizon and AT&T to route your messages to and from customers.
Step #3: Start Your Text Campaign
Once your number is published, you’re all set to begin messaging! As an approved sender, your business benefits from higher message deliverability, faster throughput, lower fees, and an overall increase in ROI from your SMS campaigns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why do I need to register for 10DLC?
A: 10DLC registration is mandatory for businesses that use SMS for communication. It helps ensure compliance with carrier rules and increases message deliverability, protecting both your business and customers from spam.
Q: What happens if I don’t register my business for 10DLC?
A: If you send SMS messages without registering for 10DLC, carriers can block your messages or impose fines. You’ll also miss out on the benefits of approved sender status, like faster message throughput and lower costs.
Q: How long does the 10DLC registration process take?
A: Registration can vary depending on your CSP, but it usually takes a few days to a couple of weeks. It’s best to work closely with your CSP to ensure you provide all required details upfront to avoid delays.
Q: Do I need to re-register for every SMS campaign?
A: You don’t need to re-register each time you send messages, but any new campaigns with different types of content may require updates to your registration. Check with your CSP to confirm.
Q: Can I send messages before my registration is complete?
A: It’s recommended to wait until your registration is fully approved before sending messages. Unregistered numbers can be blocked by MNOs, reducing the effectiveness of your campaigns.
Q: What type of language do I need to put on my website or contact form(s)?
A: Each Campaign Service Provider can determine their own requirements for language that they want to see on your website(s). Be sure to check with your provider for any specific required language. Below you will see three very different examples of language provided by three different providers.
- “I agree to receive communications by text message about my inquiry. You may opt-out by replying STOP or ask for more information by replying HELP. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. You may review our Privacy Policy to learn how your data is used.“
- “I consent to receive SMS text messages from [YOUR BUSINES NAME HERE]. Msg&data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out.—“
- “By providing a telephone number and submitting this form you are consenting to be contacted by SMS text message. Message & data rates may apply. You can reply STOP to opt-out of further messaging.”
Are there additional 10DLC resources?
Sure are!
And if you need help identifying which type of brand you are or campaigns you’re running:
Conclusion
Registering for 10DLC may seem like a technical process, but following these steps ensures compliance and maximizes the success of your SMS campaigns. At TiniTech Consulting, we’re here to help guide you through the registration process and manage your SMS messaging to ensure your business stays compliant while reaching your audience effectively.
