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What is 10DLC? A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

In the evolving landscape of business communication, text messaging stands out as a powerful tool for engaging customers directly. With the introduction of 10DLC, or 10-Digit Long Code, businesses now have an efficient, compliant, and cost-effective way to send messages at scale. This guide will explore what 10DLC is, its benefits, and how it can enhance your messaging strategies.


10DLC compliance

Understanding 10DLC

10DLC refers to local 10-digit phone numbers approved by mobile carriers for Application-to-Person (A2P) messaging. This system allows businesses to send SMS and MMS messages to customers using familiar local numbers while benefiting from higher message throughput and improved compliance.

The Evolution of Business Messaging

Historically, businesses had limited options for sending bulk messages:

  1. Toll-Free Numbers: Affordable and capable of handling moderate message volumes, but sometimes perceived as less personal.
  2. Short Codes: 5- to 6-digit numbers ideal for extremely high-volume campaigns but expensive and lacking voice capabilities.
  3. Standard Long Codes: Regular local numbers intended for person-to-person (P2P) communication with strict volume limitations.

The need for a solution that combines high throughput, compliance, and cost-effectiveness led to the introduction of 10DLC.

10DLC registration

Why 10DLC Was Introduced

With the surge in A2P messaging, carriers faced challenges like spam and unauthorized use of long codes for mass messaging. 10DLC addresses these issues by providing a sanctioned channel for businesses, ensuring:

  • Enhanced Compliance: Businesses must register their messaging campaigns, reducing spam and protecting consumers.
  • Improved Deliverability: Pre-approved messages are less likely to be filtered or blocked by carriers.
  • Higher Throughput: Allows businesses to send messages more efficiently than traditional long codes.

Benefits of 10DLC for Your Business

1. Increased Message Volumes and Throughput

10DLC bridges the gap between short codes and toll-free numbers, supporting higher message volumes with faster delivery speeds. This means your messages reach customers promptly, which is crucial for time-sensitive communications.

2. Cost-Effective Solution

Compared to short codes, 10DLC offers a more affordable alternative without compromising on performance. It eliminates the high setup and maintenance costs associated with short codes, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.

3. Enhanced Compliance and Deliverability

Since 10DLC numbers are registered and vetted by carriers, they comply with industry regulations. This leads to:

  • Higher Delivery Rates: Messages are less likely to be blocked or marked as spam.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Meets carrier and industry standards, reducing the risk of penalties.

4. Local Presence with Flexibility

Using local numbers fosters trust and familiarity with customers. Additionally, businesses can:

  • Convert Existing Numbers: Upgrade current landlines or numbers to 10DLC without changing contact information.
  • Scale Messaging Efforts: Adjust message volumes according to business needs without significant cost implications.

5. Supports Two-Way Communication

10DLC numbers facilitate two-way messaging, allowing customers to engage in conversations, enhancing customer service and satisfaction.


Comparing Messaging Options

Feature Short Codes 10DLC Toll-Free Numbers
Number Format 5-6 digits Local 10-digit numbers 10-digit toll-free numbers
Ideal For Ultra-high volume campaigns Moderate to high-volume messaging with local presence Customer service and branding
Cost High setup and monthly fees Affordable monthly fees Low monthly fees
Throughput Very high High (based on registration) Moderate
Voice Capability No Yes Yes
Two-Way Messaging Yes Yes Yes

Who Should Use 10DLC?

Businesses Seeking Balance Between Volume and Cost

If your messaging needs exceed the capacity of toll-free numbers but don’t justify the expense of short codes, 10DLC offers an ideal middle ground.

Enterprises Prioritizing Compliance

Organizations looking to ensure compliance with carrier regulations will benefit from 10DLC’s mandatory registration and vetting process.

Brands Aiming for Better Delivery Rates

Businesses experiencing deliverability issues can leverage 10DLC’s improved reputation with carriers to enhance message success rates.

Companies Desiring Flexibility

Whether scaling up or down, 10DLC allows adjustments in messaging volumes without significant cost changes, providing flexibility for fluctuating business needs.


How to Get Started with 10DLC

1. Registration Process

To utilize 10DLC, businesses must register their brand and messaging campaigns with carriers through a process that includes:

  • Brand Registration: Submit business details like legal name, tax ID, and contact information.
  • Campaign Registration: Provide information about your messaging use cases, sample messages, and opt-in methods.

2. Obtain Approval and Trust Score

Carriers assess your registration to assign a trust score, which influences your messaging throughput and daily limits.

3. Number Provisioning

You can either:

  • Register Existing Numbers: Upgrade your current numbers to 10DLC.
  • Acquire New 10DLC Numbers: Obtain new local numbers designated for your messaging campaigns.

Best Practices for 10DLC Messaging

  • Ensure Compliance: Adhere strictly to messaging regulations and carrier guidelines.
  • Maintain Updated Records: Keep your registration information current to avoid disruptions.
  • Monitor Performance: Regularly check message deliverability and engagement metrics.
  • Optimize Content: Craft messages that are clear, concise, and valuable to recipients.

Why Choose Kixie for Your 10DLC Needs

Kixie simplifies the transition to 10DLC and enhances your business messaging through:

1. Streamlined Registration and Approval

Our efficient registration process gets your 10DLC numbers approved swiftly, minimizing wait times and allowing you to start messaging sooner.

2. Expert Guidance on Compliance

We provide:

  • Compliance Support: Assistance in understanding and meeting all regulatory requirements.
  • Industry Knowledge: Up-to-date information on carrier policies and best practices.

3. Advanced Messaging Platform

Kixie’s platform offers:

  • User-Friendly Interface: Easily manage your messaging campaigns and monitor performance.
  • Integrated Communication Tools: Combine voice and text communications for a seamless customer experience.

4. Dedicated Customer Support

Our team is ready to help you navigate any challenges, ensuring your messaging strategy is effective and compliant.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How does 10DLC improve message deliverability?

A: Since 10DLC numbers are registered and vetted, carriers recognize them as legitimate, reducing the likelihood of messages being blocked or marked as spam.

Q2: Can I upgrade my existing business number to a 10DLC number?

A: Yes, Kixie can help you convert your current number to a 10DLC number, maintaining continuity for your customers.

Q3: What factors affect my messaging throughput with 10DLC?

A: Your throughput is determined by your trust score, which is based on the information provided during registration and your compliance with messaging guidelines.


Getting Started with Kixie and 10DLC

Enhance Your Business Messaging Today

Embracing 10DLC is a strategic move for businesses looking to improve communication efficiency and compliance. Kixie makes this transition seamless:

  • Swift Approval Process: Get your 10DLC numbers approved in as little as 72 hours.
  • Competitive Pricing: Benefit from cost-effective solutions tailored to your needs.
  • Expert Support: Rely on our team’s expertise to optimize your messaging strategies.

Schedule a Free Demo to discover how Kixie can empower your business with 10DLC messaging.


Empower Your Business Messaging with 10DLC

In a world where direct and efficient communication is key, 10DLC offers a powerful solution for businesses. By understanding and leveraging 10DLC, you can significantly enhance your messaging campaigns’ reach and effectiveness. With Kixie’s support, adopting 10DLC becomes a straightforward process, enabling you to focus on engaging your customers and growing your business.

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