What is 10DLC?
10DLC refers to a 10-digit long code and is a type of A2P (Application-to-Person) messaging system in the US that allows businesses to send messages to their customers.
In the past, short codes and long codes dominated the A2P SMS landscape. Before 10DLC, long codes were intended only for P2P (Person-to-Person) messaging. They had serious regulatory concerns and were more susceptible to spam. Short codes, on the other hand, were expensive.
A2P 10DLC offers businesses a dedicated, cost-effective, and high-throughput solution for sending SMS and MMS messages to their customers in the US and Canada.
10DLC Benefits
Here are the key benefits of 10-digit long codes
Lower Costs: 10-digit codes are more cost-effective compared to shortcodes. This allows small and large businesses to leverage A2P messaging.
Faster Launch: Unlike short codes, which can take weeks to set up, 10DLC setup can be completed in days.
Increased Security: A2P10DLC registration process and compliance requirements ensure a stronger security system.
Higher Delivery Rates: 10DLC compliance measures ensure fewer dropped messages or bottleneck issues. This means better deliverability and a higher ROI for your marketing campaigns.
Better Brand Visibility: 10-digit numbers allow brand recognition as they are more recognizable. Studies show that 9 out of 10 consumers prefer to interact with brands through business text messaging. A dedicated number attached to your messages helps brand consistency and enhances customer engagement.
What is A2P 10DLC Compliance?
Following regulatory requirements is mandatory for successful A2P SMS. Here’s how you can maintain compliance with 10DLC –
Avoid Spam: Ensure all your messages have the appropriate opt-in authority from the customer.
Honor Opt-Out Requests: Manage and honor unsubscribe requests properly.
Adhere to Messaging Content Guidelines: Follow the guidelines related to the type of messages you can send and the use cases you have registered.
10DLC SMS Registration Best Practices
1. Gather Precise Business Information:
Before starting the 10DLC registration process, collect accurate information about your business, including its name, location, website, and industry category. Consistency across platforms and alignment with official records are vital.
2. Choose Suitable Use Cases:
Opt for use cases that follow registration guidelines. Examples include appointment reminders, customer support, notifications, and marketing messages.
3. Comply with Carrier Requirements:
Understand and adhere to the specific requirements of each carrier for 10DLC registration. Compliance with these guidelines prevents message filtering, delays, or potential delisting.
4. Obtain Clear User Consent:
Respect user privacy by collecting explicit consent before sending messages. Implementing an opt-in system ensures subscribers willingly agree to receive your messages, reducing the risk of complaints or opt-outs.
5. Monitor Message Volume:
Avoid spamming customers and maintain a balanced messaging volume. Regularly review business text messaging content to ensure compliance with industry regulations and relevance to your audience.
A2P 10DLC Registration: How to Get Started
To get started, businesses must register their 10DLC campaigns with The Campaign Registry (TCR). TCR is the reputation authority for registering A2P 10DLC messaging campaigns.
Here are the steps to follow for registration:
Brand Registration
This process involves visiting the TCR portal and supplying brand information such as the company’s name, website, contact details, address, etc.
Campaign Registration
To streamline the A2P 10DLC compliance process, registering 10DLC campaigns with carriers is mandatory. This process typically involves providing essential information such as the purpose of the campaign, campaign name, etc.
Assign Number
To send messages over 10DLC, you need to purchase a dedicated number, or you can port an existing number and associate it with your campaign. Once the association of the number is approved, you can start sending registered A2P 10DLC campaigns.
10DLC is revolutionizing the A2P messaging game, providing businesses with excellent opportunities to reach their customers. With high delivery rates, lower costs, and increased security, it is a versatile tool for customer engagement. Want to start 10-digit-code campaigns? Kaleyra’s exceptional support and robust infrastructure can help you get started in no time. Contact us today to learn how.
Kalaivani Narayanan
Content Specialist