The business of text messaging has faced considerable regulatory shifts, especially with 10DLC registration becoming a requirement in 2023. By 2024, the process for 10DLC registration has been overhauled, creating a smoother and more accessible path for businesses entering the A2P (application-to-person) messaging space. This evolution makes it easier for companies to harness the potential of 10DLC as a robust communication channel.
What is 10DLC Registration?
10DLC refers to a 10-digit long code that provides businesses a cost-effective option for sending high-volume A2P text messages. Unlike short codes, 10DLC bridges affordability with functionality, making it ideal for marketing, customer service, and notifications. The introduction of 10DLC has standardized how businesses reach audiences, ensuring a balance between cost-effectiveness and compliance.
The Impact of 10DLC on Your Business
The primary objective of the 10DLC system is to minimize spam and enhance consumer protection. Adopting this system means businesses not only align with compliance but also benefit from improved message delivery and higher engagement rates. However, the registration process can be complex due to carrier-specific guidelines, requiring careful strategy and adherence to regulations.
The 10DLC Registration Process
For businesses new to SMS marketing, the mandatory registration process represents a significant change from the past when sending messages was simpler. Today, a complete registration is necessary for verified message delivery. Unregistered messages are likely to face delivery issues or additional costs imposed by carriers, such as AT&T's pay-per-message fees.
Typically, businesses must provide:
- Business Number or EIN: Proof of legitimate business status.
- Country of Operation
- Website: Validates online presence.
- Business Type: Such as sole proprietorship or nonprofit.
- Industry Information
Registering campaigns through the 10DLC “Campaign Registry” is also necessary, allowing carriers to better understand and secure the content of bulk messages. Although this adds to the initial workload, the long-term benefits include better deliverability and stronger audience trust.
Ensuring 10DLC Compliance for Your Campaigns
The introduction of 10DLC brought with it stringent compliance measures, where violations can lead to fines and damage to brand reputation. Staying compliant requires understanding the following areas:
10DLC Vetting
Vetting ensures that your campaigns meet carrier standards and regulatory expectations. This process is often mandatory, especially for industries that deal with sensitive information or have higher compliance risks, such as finance or healthcare. Proper vetting leads to enhanced deliverability and minimized message filtering.
In 2024, carriers have implemented improved Caller ID verification measures as part of this vetting. Businesses must remain compliant with regulations like the TCPA (Telephone Consumer Protection Act) and CAN-SPAM Act to avoid legal repercussions.
Volume Limitations
Carriers impose caps on the number of messages sent from a single long code to maintain the quality and reliability of SMS networks. These limits help prevent spam and ensure messages are delivered efficiently. The updated 2024 10DLC program supports higher message volumes, addressing growing business demands for widespread communication. Still, businesses must monitor message volumes to prevent penalties or suspensions.
Message Types
Understanding the categories of 10DLC messages—promotional, transactional, and informational—is essential. Promotional messages require clear recipient consent and strict adherence to rules, while transactional and informational messages must be managed to avoid being flagged as spam. Correctly identifying and managing message types ensures they reach their targets successfully and maintain customer trust.
Elevate Your SMS Marketing with AZOR
Mobile marketing continues to evolve, driven by consumer preferences for direct interactions with brands. Transitioning from short codes to 10DLC may feel challenging, but the advantages for businesses and consumers are substantial. Enhanced transparency, improved compliance, and cost-effectiveness are just some of the benefits that come with embracing 10DLC.
At AZOR, we empower businesses to take their SMS campaigns to the next level. Our comprehensive solutions simplify 10DLC registration and compliance, offering intuitive tools and exceptional support to address any questions or challenges that arise.
Experience a new level of SMS marketing with AZOR. Start your free trial today and discover how we can amplify your business communication.