Table of Contents
Business communication has evolved dramatically in recent years, and text messaging is at the center of this transformation. As consumers increasingly prefer quick, direct interactions, companies have embraced SMS as a primary channel for engagement. However, with the rise of spam and regulatory concerns, carriers have introduced new standards to ensure trust and deliverability. One of the most significant changes is a system that is reshaping how businesses connect with their audiences.
What Makes 10DLC Different?
10DLC, short for “10-Digit Long Code,” allows businesses to send Application-to-Person (A2P) messages using standard local phone numbers. Unlike short codes or toll-free numbers, 10DLC offers a unique blend of familiarity and compliance. Customers recognize local numbers, which builds trust, while carriers enforce strict registration requirements to reduce spam and fraud.
This shift means businesses can no longer rely on unregistered long codes for bulk messaging. Instead, they must adopt 10DLC to maintain message deliverability and avoid penalties. For companies that depend on SMS for marketing, notifications, or customer service, this change is critical.
Why Carriers Introduced 10DLC
The introduction of 10DLC was driven by two main factors: security and scalability. Carriers needed a way to distinguish legitimate business messaging from spam without sacrificing performance. Traditional long codes were never designed for high-volume A2P traffic, leading to filtering issues and inconsistent delivery.
10DLC solves these problems by requiring businesses to register their brand and campaigns through The Campaign Registry (TCR). This process ensures transparency and accountability, giving carriers confidence that messages originate from verified sources. As a result, customers receive fewer unwanted texts, and businesses enjoy higher throughput and reliability.
How 10DLC Improves Customer Engagement
For companies, 10DLC is more than a compliance requirement—it’s an opportunity to enhance customer relationships. Here’s how:
- Local presence builds trust: Messages sent from familiar local numbers feel more personal and credible.
- Better deliverability: Registered campaigns reduce the risk of messages being blocked or filtered.
- Higher throughput: Businesses can send messages faster than with traditional long codes, improving responsiveness.
- Cost efficiency: Compared to short codes, 10DLC offers a more affordable solution for small and medium-sized businesses.
These benefits make 10DLC a powerful tool for companies looking to strengthen their communication strategies.
Challenges Businesses Face With 10DLC
Despite its advantages, implementing 10DLC comes with challenges. Registration can be complex, requiring detailed information about your brand and messaging use cases. Carriers also impose fees for registration and monthly maintenance, which businesses must factor into their budgets. Additionally, strict content guidelines mean certain industries—such as those involving alcohol or firearms—must take extra care to remain compliant.
To overcome these hurdles, many companies partner with experienced messaging providers who handle registration and compliance on their behalf. This approach saves time and ensures campaigns meet carrier standards.
Conclusion
10DLC is transforming how businesses interact with people by making SMS messaging more secure, reliable, and customer-friendly. While the transition requires effort, the benefits—better deliverability, stronger trust, and improved engagement—are well worth it. Companies that adapt now will position themselves for success in a world where direct, compliant communication is key.