Short codes are alphanumeric strings that are used to create unique and new mobile numbers. They’re also known as short identifiers, shortcodes, or vanity numbers. These short code numbers can be used by businesses – like small businesses and startups – to set up a company-specific phone number that is easy to remember and marketable. These unique phone numbers are commonly used in different industries and services such as ticketing systems, customer support, event management, and more. In this blog post, we will give you everything you need to know about Short Codes Canada and how it can help your business grow!
What is a Short Code?
A shortcode is a 5- to 8-digit alphanumeric string that is used to create unique and new mobile numbers. These short code numbers can be used by businesses – like small businesses and startups – to set up a company-specific phone number that is easy to remember and marketable. These unique phone numbers are commonly used in different industries and services such as ticketing systems, customer support, event management, and more. A short code operates very similarly to a phone number in that it is called, customers can leave a message, and it is associated with a cellular network.
However, a short code differs in that it is centrally managed by your business and can be reprogrammed at any time. For example, a short code associated with a text message marketing campaign could be repurposed as a customer support phone number after the promotion ends. It’s also important to know that shortcodes are different than long codes, which are 10-digit numbers that share the same prefix as standard telephone numbers.
How to Get a Short Code
Before you start using shortcodes, you need to get a short code and have it activated. This can be done through your telecom service provider or a third-party aggregator. Once you have an active short code, you can use it to send and receive text messages in a few different ways. For example, you can use a message management platform like Twilio or a program like Short Code Canada to send and receive text messages. In most cases, you also need to be sure that your business is on the National Do Not Call List in order to avoid violating the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). There are a few different ways to get a short code depending on what services you want to use.
Advantages of Using a Short Code
Easy to remember: A shortcode allows you to create a memorable phone number that customers can use for their transactions. This makes it easy for users to interact with your website or app, especially if they are using your service for the first time. Easy to use:
Customers don’t have to type in your long phone number or remember it, making it easier for them to engage with your business. Easy to track: If you’re using a short code, you can track the performance of your marketing campaigns and gain valuable insights into how customers are interacting with your brand. Easy to brand: Shortcodes allow you to brand your messaging and use a vanity number that is more memorable and recognizable. For example, Red Bull’s short code is “83”, and Uber’s short code is “5-5-5”.
Frequently Asked Questions about Short Codes
What happens if someone texts my short code number? If someone texts your short code, it will display a message that you have set up. They’ll also have the option to reply “HELP” to receive instructions on how to contact you. What happens if someone texts my long number?
If someone texts your long, non-short code number, it will display a message that you have set up. What happens if I change the message on my short code? It will update the message on your short code number, but it won’t change the message for the long number. What happens if I change the message on my long number? It will update the message on your long number and on your short code number.
Bottom Line
A shortcode is a centralized digital phone number that businesses can use to engage with customers on a one-on-one basis. Shortcodes are often used for marketing campaigns, such as when businesses host a contest or offer a deal and want to be able to track who participates. Shortcodes can be branded, making them easier to associate with a specific brand. With the rise of mobile and SMS marketing, short codes have become an essential and convenient tool for businesses to reach customers on their phones.
