Branded SMS or text messages with Sender IDs have a unique name or standard mobile number showing a message’s origin. Instead of having a system-generated long number, businesses can opt to have their company name, campaign name, or a unique set of numbers. Branded SMS and messages with a Sender ID helps customer immediately recognize who the text is from and are more likely to read and take action.
Branded SMS has emerged as a powerful tool for SMS marketing, allowing businesses to enhance their brand identity and engage customers more effectively. However, recipients will not be able to reply to branded text messages. It is only ideal for texts that do not require a response. Businesses must include clear instructions on how recipients can take action or opt out of the campaign. Using branded SMS for your marketing campaign involves registration before sending. This article will help us understand how to send Branded SMS and its advantages for businesses. This article will help us understand how to
Send Branded SMS And Its Advantages For Businesses
1. Sign In to an SMS API
Businesses can begin sending branded SMS by logging in to their chosen SMS marketing platform, which provides access to an SMS API (Application Programming Interface). This API connects the business’s application and the SMS gateway, allowing for the transmission of SMS messages. Signing in to the SMS API grants businesses the required authorizations to use the platform’s functionalities, such as setting up and launching branded SMS campaigns.
2. Brand Must be Registered (Some Countries)
Before using branded SMS in certain countries, businesses may be required to register their brand or company name with regulatory authorities or mobile network operators. This process ensures compliance with local regulations and prevents unauthorized use of branded sender IDs. To ensure legal compliance, businesses must research and understand the specific registration requirements of the countries where they plan to send branded SMS.
3. Change Sender ID in SMS API Settings
Once businesses sign in to the SMS API, they can access their account settings to modify the sender ID. The sender ID is the alphanumeric or numeric name that appears to recipients as the sender of the SMS message. By changing the sender ID in the API settings, businesses can substitute the default phone number with their brand name or a custom alias. It is essential for establishing a branded experience and enhancing recognition among recipients.
4. Send a Branded SMS with the New Sender ID
Now that the sender ID has been set up, businesses can create and send SMS campaigns using their brand name. They can customize the messages to each individual, add specific calls to action, and use their company branding to build trust and increase engagement. Whether sending out promotions, updates on transactions, or essential notices, branded SMS messaging can help businesses improve their customer communication and reinforce their brand identity.
What is a Branded SMS?
Branded SMS is a messaging technique businesses use to send SMS messages using their brand or company name as the sender instead of a standard phone number. This personalized touch is achieved through Sender ID or alphanumeric Sender Name. Recipients see the brand name or alias they recognize as the sender, thus increasing the communication’s credibility and encouraging brand recall. Branded SMS is more engaging for recipients and makes the messages more appealing than traditional text messages, which use generic phone numbers.
Businesses can directly connect with their audience by incorporating their brand identity into the sender’s information. It helps to create a sense of trust and recognition with the recipients of their SMS messages. Branded SMS messages enable recipients to quickly identify the familiar brand name or alias, leaving a distinct and memorable impression.
This recognition factor is especially useful in the competitive SMS marketing landscape. It increases the likelihood of recipients engaging with the message and taking the desired actions. Branded SMS is a powerful tool for businesses for SMS Marketing to enhance their brand presence, improve customer communication, and achieve better response rates. Ultimately, this leads to stronger customer relationships and enhanced marketing outcomes.
Why is Branded SMS Used for SMS Marketing?
SMS marketing is a highly effective way to reach existing and potential customers. With many marketing messages constantly being received, SMS allows businesses to cut through the noise and communicate directly with their intended audience. Branded SMS offers businesses a way to stand out from other messages and establish recognition. It helps them create an immediate connection with customers, increasing the chances of engagement.
Sending SMS messages is a very personal way of communicating. When businesses send SMS messages to customers, they are more likely to be read and given attention than emails or advertisements. Furthermore, it is essential to remember that SMS marketing generates a higher return on investment (ROI) than email marketing, with a conversion rate of roughly 4% compared to email’s 1%. As a result, businesses can anticipate earning $4 for every $1 spent on SMS marketing.
Finally, SMS marketing is a highly adaptable tool that can be utilized for various purposes. You may employ it to boost sales by promoting special offers, reminding clients of appointments, or simply conveying your gratitude. Regardless of the objective, implementing an SMS marketing strategy proves to be an efficient approach to connecting with your customers and marketing your business.
How Does Branded SMS Work?
For businesses to send branded SMS, they need to create an account on a text messaging platform that provides an SMS API. This API helps to connect applications with the SMS gateway and enables sending and receiving of messages. After logging in, businesses can adjust their settings by replacing the phone number with their brand name or custom alias as the sender ID.
After this process, businesses can create and launch their SMS campaigns with the new sender ID. When recipients receive messages from this sender ID, they will see your brand name instead of a generic phone number. It ensures that customers can quickly identify the message as coming from you and increases the likelihood of engagement.
Not all of your customers will receive the branded message, but a good number will, and for them, the user experience will be significantly improved. The best part is, implementing this feature is surprisingly effortless. All you need to do is register your brand as a bot for RCS messaging, and your OpenMarket account manager can help you with the process.
Branded Messaging service sends messages through both SMS and RCS platforms. It means you will get delivery receipts for SMS messages and read receipt data for branded messages.
What are the Advantages of Branded SMS for SMS Marketing?
Using Branded SMS for SMS marketing has multiple benefits. Replacing the sender’s information with your brand name can give customers a more personalized experience. Here are some of its top advantages.
- Instant Recognition – By displaying your company name as the sender, your customers can easily recognize that the text comes from your company, not an unknown number.
- Better Brand Awareness – A sender ID will be displayed instead of the phone number, making it clear to customers who the message is from.
- Compliance – In certain countries, you must register your brand as a bot to send branded SMS. It means businesses can comply with local rules and regulations while promoting their products and services.
- Better Engagement – By providing customers with familiar branding, they will be more likely to read the message and take action on it.
- Higher Open Rates – Customers are more likely to open a message from a trusted brand than an unknown number.
What are the Disadvantages of Branded SMS for SMS Marketing?
Despite its advantages, branded SMS has some drawbacks that businesses should be aware of.
- Cost – Branded SMS costs more than generic messages due to registration fees and other factors.
- Technical Learning Curve – Navigating the technical side of setting up a branded SMS campaign can be challenging and time-consuming.
- Lack of Control – Potential risks include giving your brand’s name to other companies. If they follow protocols, it may reflect well on your business.
- Not for Two-Way Communication – Branded SMS only supports two-way customer communication, essential to customer engagement.
What are the Alternatives to Sender ID?
Two alternatives are available for businesses that cannot or do not want to use a branded sender ID. SMS Sender ID has different appearances and use cases, including two-way messaging. However, this functionality may only be available for numerical or alpha sender IDs.
To use two-way messaging, you must have a registered numerical number. Your partner must register a number before two-way messaging can be enabled. You have two available options to select from.
1. Dedicated Short Codes
The dedicated Shortcode Sender ID option is similar to the longcode but offers more variety in shortcode types. There are two types of SMS shortcodes.
- Dedicated Shortcode – This is a pricier option. A single company exclusively owns the shortcode. Two-way messaging is typically included, and no specific keywords are necessary for communication.
- Shared Shortcode – Several companies use the same Sender ID to notify their customers through shortcodes. It means that multiple entities share these shortcodes. Two-way communication can also be established by sending an SMS with a specific keyword, such as “Reply with JOOK if you wish to know more.”
2. 10DLC
When using a Long Number Sender ID, the recipient will see it as a lengthy number on their device, such as a mobile number. It allows for two-way messaging with that number. The sender can respond directly from their mobile number, and their reply will be sent via API or email.
However, 10DLC (10 Digit Long Code) is a new type of Sender ID that combines the features of shortcodes and long numbers. It gives businesses a memorable number — often in the form of an area code — instead of a generic ten-digit code. It allows for two-way communication while providing customers with a more recognizable sender.
What are the Requirements for Replacing the Sender ID for Branded SMS?
To replace the sender ID for branded SMS, businesses must first register their brand with an SMS provider’s bot service. This process can vary depending on your provider and local regulations.
Generally, you will need to provide documents including the following:
- A copy of your business license
- An authorization letter from the brand owner
- Proof of local incorporation
- The logo, name, and address of the company
- An agreement that shows you have permission to use branding for SMS messages.
The requirements for replacing your Sender ID for branded SMS vary by country/region and provider. Be sure to check with your account manager for more information on sending branded messages.
You may also ask your SMS marketing service provider for the estimated cost of replacing your Sender ID for branded SMS.
How Much Does Branded SMS Cost Per Sending?
The cost of branded SMS varies according to the provider and country/region. It ranges from $0.0050 to $0.0100 per message in most areas, though prices may be higher or lower depending on your provider and location. The cost of sending branded SMS per message varies based on different factors, such as the chosen SMS marketing platform, the destination country, and the number of messages sent.
Branded SMS can be more expensive than regular SMS due to the added branding feature. Nevertheless, the benefits of increased brand recognition and customer engagement often make up for the additional cost. To get a clear idea of the cost, businesses should consult their chosen SMS marketing provider and review their pricing plans to determine the best option that suits their marketing needs and budget.
Can Branded SMS Be Sent to Other Countries?
Yes. Selling branded SMS to other countries is possible, but businesses must consider each country’s regulations and requirements. As previously stated, some countries may require brand registration before using branded SMS, while others may impose restrictions on specific characters or industry-specific limitations. Furthermore, businesses must confirm that their SMS marketing platform supports international messaging and has adequate connectivity with carriers in their target countries. By following country-specific guidelines and collaborating with a trustworthy SMS marketing provider, businesses can effectively send branded SMS to a worldwide audience.
Can Branded SMS Only Be Used by a Registered Brand?
Yes. The rules for using branded SMS differ from country to country. In some countries, it’s mandatory to register a brand before using branded SMS, while in others, it’s not required. However, it’s important to note that legitimate businesses or organizations typically use branded SMS to maintain trust and prevent misuse.
By registering their brand, businesses can use their brand name or alias as the sender ID, which adds credibility and authenticity to their SMS marketing campaigns. Therefore, companies should verify brand registration requirements in their target countries and follow necessary procedures to comply with local regulations and industry standards.