These Virtual Mobile Numbers(long codes) and toll-free numbers completely bypass the headache of getting your own dedicated short code number. Long codes and toll-free numbers cut through the numerous restrictions associated with purchasing your own short code and very lengthy approval process. Setting up a long code/toll-free campaign is fast and easy. They can deliver SMS messages where short codes can’t. For example, international mobile numbers, VOIP phone and Google voice are all within your reach.
Second, with shared short codes, in most cases you can only use 1 keyword and if you want to use additional keywords, other SMS marketing services will charge you extra for those on a monthly basis. Also, if the keyword you want is already used by someone else, you have to use another keyword since you are sharing your number. For example, if you want to use the keyword “PIZZA” but it is already in use, then you might have to try “PIZZA1” or “PIZZA4U” or whatever else might be available.
With long codes and toll-free numbers, they’re only associated with you and your account, so you can use as many keywords as you want and whatever keywords you want. Using many different keywords is beneficial because this allows you to test the effectiveness of each keyword and what has the better response rate without paying the extra fees for each additional keyword.
Your customers can also save your number in their phone and immediately recognize the text came from you. With shared short codes, they could be receiving text messages from other businesses (your competitors) using the same number that you are using.
We also have a detailed blog post on 5 Reasons Why Long Code Numbers are Better for Notifications and Reminders.
Posted in: Numbers
