SMS Sender ID: Definition, Purpose, Benefits, and How to Change Sender ID

An SMS Sender ID is a number or name that identifies the sender of a text message. It is also known as a sender address, call-back number, or reply path and appears as an alphanumeric code (e.g., ABC123). These IDs can be used for incoming and outgoing messages, allowing organizations to brand their messages with a unique identity that customers recognize. The format of the address on a mobile phone message can vary and may appear in one of these formats to indicate the sender. It can be a local, international, short code, or alphanumeric originator.

There are three types of SMS Sender IDs: custom alphanumeric words, dedicated and long-code numbers. Different businesses may prefer one type over another. Various ways exist to set up an SMS sender ID, depending on the country and service provider. It is essential to comply with local regulations and register for the correct type of Sender ID to ensure that SMS messages are sent and received correctly. Having a text ID helps build trust and ensure that customers become more engaged in marketing messages from a company. Let us learn more about SMS sender ID, its definition, purpose, benefits, and how to change it.

What is SMS Sender ID?

The Sender ID, or the SMS Customer ID or sender name, is the name or number displayed on your mobile device that identifies who sent the text message with a registered mobile number. For instance, when your friend sends you a text message, their Sender ID will be their phone number or name. It may include a shortened number, such as a shortcode like 12302, or contain characters like “BubbleTeaShop.”

There are three types of Sender IDs (or from addresses):

• Alphanumeric
• Long numbers
• Shortcodes

Alphanumeric Sender IDs are usually 11 characters long and can contain both numbers and letters, so they are often referred to as alpha-numeric. These addresses allow you to brand your messages with a company or product name. For example, “BubbleTeaShop” is an alphanumeric address that a bubble tea shop could use.

Long number (long codes) Sender IDs are long numbers with the same number of characters as national mobile numbers. They can be up to 15 digits long, excluding the + symbol. An example of a long number is 3725953854.

Long numbers can be used to send messages and are often used for two-way communication. They also use the same SMS infrastructure as all mobile phone numbers, meaning messages sent with long numbers will appear in the recipient’s inbox as if it was sent from a phone number.

Shortcode Sender IDs, on the other hand, are much shorter than long numbers and often have fewer than five digits. Shortcodes are used for one-way communication, meaning that customers cannot reply to messages sent with a shortcode. They are also more expensive than long numbers as they require special approval from the telecom operator before they can be used. An example of a shortcode is 12302.

How Does SMS Sender ID Work?

SMS Sender ID, also known as the “From” field or Sender Name, is the alphanumeric or numeric identifier that appears as the sender of an SMS message on recipients’ mobile devices. 

It can be customized to display a brand name or alias instead of a standard phone number.

Businesses must set their branded Sender ID using an SMS marketing platform or gateway before sending SMS messages. In the case of branded SMS, companies can replace the default phone number with their brand name or a custom alias. Branded Sender ID enhances brand credibility and recall, increasing the chances of recipients engaging with the message.

After the Sender ID is created, the SMS marketing platform or SMS API gateway adds it to the header of the SMS message. It ensures that the branded Sender ID is displayed as the sender of the SMS when the message is delivered to the recipient’s mobile carrier and device.

Using branded Sender ID is essential to comply with country-specific regulations and carrier guidelines. Some countries may require brand registration, and carriers may restrict certain characters to prevent misuse and spam.

What is the Purpose of SMS Sender ID?

SMS Sender ID aims to help businesses build brand recognition, trust, credibility, and differentiation in the inbox and enhance customer engagement. With an SMS sender ID, the sender’s identity is clear to the recipient.

Businesses use Branded SMS Sender IDs to display their brand name or a custom alias as the sender of an SMS message. It helps recipients recognize the sender, which can improve brand recognition and recall. By associating a familiar brand name with the message, customers develop a positive perception of the brand, and it becomes more present in their minds.

A branded Sender ID can increase the trustworthiness and credibility of an SMS. It lets recipients know that the message is from a legitimate and known source, which helps to decrease the chances of it being mistaken for spam or phishing. A branded Sender ID also adds to the message’s authenticity, which may encourage recipients to read and interact with it.

Using a branded Sender ID can make messages more distinct and distinguish them from generic messages. With a recognizable brand name, SMS messages become more visible and straightforward for recipients to recognize. It allows them to prioritize messages from businesses they trust and are familiar with.

What is the Importance of SMS Sender ID for SMS Marketing?

SMS Sender ID is just as crucial for SMS marketing as other types of communications. It helps businesses build brand recognition, trust, credibility, and differentiation in the inbox and enhances customer engagement. A branded sender name or custom alias can increase open, click-through, and response rates.

Branded SMS Sender IDs improve the visibility of messages by making them easier to recognize in a crowded inbox. With a recognizable brand name or custom alias, customers are likelier to open and interact with the message rather than dismissing it as spam or phishing.

Additionally, branded Sender IDs can help businesses stand out in the inbox and differentiate themselves from other companies. It is vital for small businesses with limited resources and budgets. Having a recognizable brand name or custom alias associated with their messages helps to create an impression of professionalism and trustworthiness.

Using a branded Sender ID also helps to protect customers’ accounts from being flagged for spam. Messages that appear to be coming from an unknown or suspicious source may trigger anti-spam filters, causing them to be blocked or marked as spam. But messages with a legitimate and recognizable brand name are less likely to be filtered out.

How to Change SMS Sender ID to Send Branded SMS?

The process of setting up an SMS sender ID can differ depending on your country and service provider. However, there are some general steps that you can follow:

• Select a Sender ID – When choosing a sender ID, consider whether you want it to be alphanumeric or numeric. It’s advisable to pick a sender ID that represents your brand or organization.
• Check Local Regulations -Knowing the local regulations and guidelines for sender IDs is essential, as some countries have specific requirements or restrictions.
• Verify Ownership – It is essential to verify that you are the rightful owner of the selected sender ID. It ensures accountability and prevents any potential misuse.
• Register with Service Provider – Register your sender ID with your service provider to send SMS messages. They will guide the registration process and help with any other requirements.
• Test and Launch – After registering your sender ID, it’s crucial to test it by sending a few SMS messages to ensure everything works correctly. Once you’ve confirmed successful functionality through testing, you can use your sender ID to send messages.

What are the Benefits of Changing SMS Sender IDs?

There are numerous benefits for businesses and organizations when they use a unique SMS sender ID. Let’s take a closer look at some of the main advantages.

• Brand Recall and Recognition – Businesses can strengthen their brand image using a specific sender ID. Customers can quickly identify and connect the sender with the corresponding brand or organization.
• Trust and Credibility – A consistent sender ID can establish trust among recipients. Customers who receive messages from senders they recognize and trust are more likely to engage and respond positively and actively.
• Increased Open Rates – Using personalized and recognizable sender IDs can increase open rates. When recipients see a sender ID that they recognize, they are more likely to open the message, which can improve engagement.
• Improved Message Delivery – Authorized and registered sender IDs increase the likelihood of bypassing spam filters, guaranteeing that crucial messages are delivered to their intended recipients without getting blocked or labeled as spam.

What are the Limitations of SMS Sender IDs?

Although there are many advantages to using a branded sender ID, it’s essential to be aware of the potential limitations. Here are some of the main drawbacks:

• Restrictions – Depending on the country and service provider, you may be restricted in terms of what type of sender IDs you can use. Some countries have regulations restricting certain symbols or characters from being used in sender IDs.
• Time – Setting up a branded sender ID often involves completing multiple steps and verifying ownership, which can take time and require additional resources.
• Cost – Depending on the service provider, businesses may incur extra costs when registering a customized sender ID. Some providers may charge extra to make changes or update an existing sender ID.
• Confusion – Brands should consider adding a short description or prefix to the sender ID so customers can quickly identify it. Otherwise, some recipients may not recognize the sender and mistakenly dismiss the message as spam or phishing.
• Reply Issues – Customers may have difficulty replying to messages sent with a branded sender ID, as they need to add an extra character before responding. Depending on the service provider, businesses may need to whitelist replies or provide a different address for customers to reply without issues.
• Spoofing – Businesses should be aware of potential spoofing threats when using branded sender IDs. Although illegal in most countries, criminals can still find ways to misrepresent their identities and take advantage of unsuspecting users.

What are the Types of SMS Sender IDs?

The type of SMS sender ID can vary depending on your service provider. The most common types are alphanumeric and numeric sender IDs. Some standard SMS Sender IDs businesses use for their text marketing campaigns are here.

• Toll-free sender ID – Toll-free sender IDs are usually the numbers used for automated SMS notifications, customer support, or events. They typically start with 800 or 888 and are associated with auto-response services to interact with customers.
• Shortcodes – Short codes are 5 to 6-digit numbers that allow businesses to send and receive messages at high speeds. These are often used in promotional campaigns where customers can interact with brands by texting keywords to the assigned short code.
• Alphanumeric sender ID – Alphanumeric sender IDs are made up of alphabets and numbers, usually between 2-11 characters long. These are often used for branded messages as they look more professional and recognizable than a regular number.
• Dynamic sender ID – Dynamic sender IDs use a combination of numbers and alphabets to generate random sender IDs, usually between 8-11 characters long.

Who Benefits from the Changing of SMS Sender IDs?

Businesses and organizations of all sizes can benefit from changing their sender IDs, as it is an effective way to boost brand recognition and customer trust. Sending messages with a recognizable brand name or alias helps establish credibility and encourages recipients to interact with the message. Some sectors that benefit the most from using SMS sender IDs include finance, health care, e-commerce, and customer service.

Customers and recipients are more likely to trust messages from a recognizable sender ID, making it easier for businesses to communicate with them and send essential updates or notifications.

What is the List of Markets with Restrictions?

The use of SMS Sender IDs is regulated in many countries. Before using them for promotional campaigns, it’s essential to check the local laws and regulations to ensure compliance. The restrictions for using SMS sender IDs by country are shown in the table below.

Can a Customer Reply to the SMS with Sender ID?

Yes and No. It depends on the type of sender ID and service provider. Depending on these factors, customers may or may not be charged for replying to the sender. If the sender ID is a short code, customers can respond free of charge. However, customers may be charged for replying if the sender ID is a toll-free number or an alphanumeric ID. In such cases, additional characters may need to be added to ensure the message is delivered correctly.

Can SMS Sender ID be Used for SMS Spoofing?

Yes. SMS Sender ID can be exploited for SMS spoofing, which involves manipulating the Sender ID to display fake or deceptive information to the recipient. It means that the Sender ID can be altered to show a different brand, phone number, or alias that may not be the actual source of the message.

Is Changing SMS Sender ID Illegal?

No. Changing your SMS Sender ID is possible, but businesses must always follow the laws and regulations in their local market. It’s essential to be aware of potential spoofing threats and ensure that actions do not mislead or deceive customers. If you need more clarification on the legality of a change, seek professional advice.

If you are uncertain about the legal implications of changing your Sender ID, it’s best to consult a legal expert before proceeding.