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Why use a short code instead of a long code?

Short code numbers are a popular choice for high-volume A2P messaging. Short codes can send SMS at 100 MPS (message segments per second) by default, and this high throughput is perfect for applications needing to send time-sensitive messages to many users at once. Short codes can also be enabled to send MMS messages if desired.

Since carriers vet and approve all short codes for their intended use, they are subject to minimal carrier filtering. This is especially important when your messages may include language that may appear high-risk to carrier filtering systems when sent via long code or Toll-Free, such as references to money.

Examples of applications that are well-suited to a short code include: marketing communications, large one-to-many notification bursts, and high volumes of one-to-one transactional notifications.

If you have questions about which number type is right for your application, please contact Sales.

See also: Comparison of SMS messaging in the US and Canada for long codes, short codes, and toll-free phone numbers

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