Shared Shortcodes for USA Are No Longer Supported in the US

TXTImpact no longer supports shared shortcodes for messaging to U.S. wireless carriers. Shared shortcodes were previously a cost-effective way for businesses to launch SMS campaigns using a pre-provisioned shortcode shared among multiple customers. However, shared shortcode service is no longer available for messaging to U.S. carriers.

Why Were Shared Short Codes Sunset in the USA?

Shared short codes were once a cost-effective way for businesses to send SMS campaigns using a number shared with other organizations. However, the shared model created challenges for sender accountability, compliance enforcement, and the customer messaging experience.

As U.S. carriers tightened messaging requirements, shared short codes were phased out of the U.S. messaging ecosystem. Key concerns included:

1. Limited Sender Accountability:

Sharing shortcodes made it harder to identify businesses responsible for spam and policy violations.

2. Shared Compliance and Delivery Risks:

One sender’s violations could put the shared shortcode at risk, disrupting delivery for other businesses.

3. Opt-Out and Subscription Conflicts:

Depending on the setup, opting out of one program could affect messages from other businesses sharing the shortcode.

4. Spam, Fraud, and Consumer Trust:

Spam and phishing abuse made it harder for recipients to distinguish legitimate businesses from fraudulent senders.

Try TXTImpact Dedicated Short Code:
Better Alternative to Shared Short Code

A dedicated short code gives your business its own 5- or 6-digit messaging number, helping establish a distinct sender identity and keeping your messaging program separate from other businesses using shared numbers.

Explore Dedicated Shortcodes

Why Choose a Dedicated Short Code?

A dedicated shortcode is designed for businesses that need a recognizable, scalable, and high-volume SMS messaging solution.

Dedicated number

Your shortcode is exclusively associated with your business and campaigns.

High throughput

Designed for businesses sending large volumes of messages.

Brand recognition

Use a memorable vanity shortcode or a randomly assigned shortcode.

Flexible keywords

Use keywords for text-to-join campaigns and other customer interactions.

SMS and MMS support

Shortcodes can support SMS and MMS messaging, subject to carrier approval.

Carrier-approved messaging

Your messaging program goes through the required carrier review and certification process.

Dedicated Short Code Options

TXTImpact offers both Random and Vanity dedicated shortcodes.

Random Short Code

A randomly assigned 5- or 6-digit shortcode is typically the most economical dedicated shortcode option.

Vanity Short Code

A vanity shortcode allows you to select an available number that is easier for customers to remember and can reinforce your brand.

How Dedicated Shortcodes Work?

Getting a dedicated shortcode involves several steps:

Select and lease a shortcode

Choose a random or vanity shortcode.

Submit your application

Provide your business information, messaging use case, expected volume, and other required details.

Carrier review and approval

TXTImpact works with the wireless carriers through the shortcode provisioning and certification process.

Provision and testing

Once approved, your shortcode is provisioned and tested for required messaging functionality.

Launch your campaigns

After certification, you can begin promoting your shortcode and run your SMS campaigns.

*Note: The application and carrier approval process typically

takes several weeks.

Need a Lower-Cost Shared Shortcode Alternative?

If you do not specifically need a 5- or 6-digit shortcode, TXTImpact also offers other business texting options, including 10DLC local numbers and toll-free texting.

These options may be a better fit for businesses that need business texting or A2P messaging without the cost and provisioning process associated with a dedicated shortcode.

10DLC Local Numbers Toll-Free Texting

Ready to Get Started?

If you need a dedicated shortcode for high-volume SMS messaging, our team can

help you through the application and carrier approval process.

Explore Dedicated Shortcodes

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