How To Get a Business Texting Number: A Buyer’s Guide

Texting has become one of the most preferred forms of communication, which makes having a dedicated business texting number not just a luxury but a necessity. Whether you run a small local business or manage a large enterprise, texting can help you connect with your customers more effectively, enhance your marketing efforts, and streamline customer service.

But how do you get a business texting number? In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essentials of setting up a business texting number, help you evaluate your options, and provide tips on how to choose the right service for your needs.

Jump right to: 

• What is a Business Texting Phone Number?
• Types of Numbers Businesses Use to Text
• How to Get a Business Texting Number 
• Key Benefits of Using A Business Texting Number
• Frequently Asked Questions about Business SMS 
  
  

What Is a Business Texting Phone Number? 

A business texting phone number is a dedicated phone number used specifically for business communications via text message. Unlike personal phone numbers, which are typically used for one-on-one communication, a business texting number is designed to manage customer interactions, marketing campaigns, support requests, and other business-related communications at scale. Business texting is typically done via an SMS service platform that enables messaging at scale.

Types of Numbers Businesses Use to Text 

You can choose from several types of numbers, each with its own set of advantages. Whether you're a small business looking for a simple solution or a larger enterprise needing a more robust system, understanding the different options will help you pick the right one for your needs. From local phone numbers to short codes, each type has its unique use case and benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of numbers businesses can use to text.

Short Codes

An SMS short code is a 5 or 6-digit number that can send and receive texts at scale. SMS short codes were built for high-volume texting campaigns as they offer the highest throughput. Additionally, SMS short codes are easy for customers to remember, which helps boost brand recognition. While extensive vetting is required for businesses that want to use an SMS short code, this intensive process can greatly increase customer trust. These are just some ways SMS short codes can benefit your business. 

10DLCs (Local)

A 10DLC (10-Digit Long Code) number is a type of long code local phone number used by businesses to send text messages to customers. These numbers are typically used for non-marketing purposes, such as customer support, appointment reminders, and transactional messages. Unlike short codes, 10DLC numbers are designed to work at scale while offering a standard phone number's familiarity and local presence. Many customers choose 10DLCs to have a local area code and voice-enabled option.

Toll-Free Numbers

A toll-free number is a phone number that allows customers to call or text a business without incurring any charges for the communication. Instead of the customer paying for the call or text, the business absorbs the cost. These numbers typically begin with a specific 800-series area code (like 800, 888, 877, etc.), though there are other toll-free prefixes available, such as 844, 855, and 833. The benefit of a toll-free number for texting is that they are the least expensive and fastest set-up option for businesses.

VoIP Numbers 

A VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) number is a phone number that is not tied to a physical phone line but rather uses the internet to make and receive calls and texts. Unlike traditional landline or mobile numbers, VoIP numbers operate via internet connectivity, which means they can be used from anywhere with an internet connection. Many businesses choose to text-enable a VoIP number like Google Voice or Dialpad.

How to Get a Business Texting Number, Step-by-Step 

Getting a business texting number might seem technical, but it’s quite straightforward once you know the steps involved. Whether you’re just starting or expanding your communication channels, setting up a dedicated business texting number is an easy and important step in improving customer engagement. In this section, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step to ensure you know exactly how to get your business up and running with SMS capabilities.

1. Choose a Business Texting Platform 

The first step in this journey is to select a business texting service provider. These platforms are designed to help you text at scale and properly register your phone number to help you comply with necessary  SMS laws.

There are many platforms out there, so here are some questions to ask yourself to help you narrow your search:

• What is your use case? Understanding your use case is a critical step in selecting the best business texting platform because it directly influences the features and tools you need. Your use case is the primary reason you want to use SMS or text messaging in your business. Whether you want to engage customers with marketing campaigns, provide real-time customer service, send appointment reminders, or handle transactional messages, each scenario requires different features and capabilities.
  
  
• What features do you need? Different platforms offer various functionalities, so understanding which features will best support your goals can make all the difference in streamlining your communication, enhancing customer experiences, and maximizing the impact of your texting campaigns.
  
  
• What is your budget? Understanding your budget helps you focus on the platforms that provide the best value for your needs. It also ensures you don’t overpay for unnecessary features while still getting the required tools and support.
  
  

• How many messages do you need to send? Platforms often structure their pricing and features around message volume, so understanding how many texts you'll be sending per month helps you choose a cost-effective and scalable service for your business needs. This factor helps narrow your options by ensuring you select a platform that can handle your messaging volume without overpaying for extra capacity.
  
  
• What do online reviews say? Customers are vocal about their experiences, and these reviews can offer real-world insights into a platform’s performance, customer service, and overall value. They provide an honest look at how well the platform works in practice, which can help you make a more informed decision.
  
  
• Does the SMS platform offer a free trial? A free trial is a valuable tool when evaluating an SMS platform. It gives you a no-commitment opportunity to test the platform's features, usability, and performance before making a financial investment.
  
  
• What integrations do you need? Integrations allow different software systems to work together, saving you time, increasing efficiency, and reducing the risk of manual errors. The right integrations can make all the difference in streamlining your processes, while the wrong ones or lack of integrations can create bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
  
  

2. Choose Your Phone Number Type

When you're setting up your SMS platform, the next step will be to choose the type of phone number you want to use. This is an important decision because the registration process and functionality vary depending on the type of number you select. Depending on which type of number you select, the registration process may require you to provide documentation, go through approval processes, or simply link to your existing number.

3. Register Your Business Phone Number 

Each type of phone number requires a slightly different process for registration due to varying rules and regulations. Here’s how to register for the main types:

Short Code Registration

Because of its widespread use for marketing and time-sensitive alerts, registration can be more complex and time-consuming for short codes. Here are the general short code registration steps.

• Apply for a dedicated short code: Apply for your chosen short code. You’ll select a vanity number or a random number.  You'll have to specify your use case and opt-in procedures.
  
  
• Carrier approval: Carriers will review your application to ensure compliance with their guidelines and regulations. This can take a few weeks.
  
  
• Use Case Approval: Carriers may also want to verify that your messaging content complies with their standards, such as ensuring it's not abusive or misleading.
  
  

Did you know Mozeo handles the short code registration process for our customers? This makes it a hands-off, stress-free experience.

10DLC Registration (10-Digit Long Code)

 Here are the general 10DLC registration steps.

• Select a 10DLC provider: Choose an SMS provider that supports 10DLC (like Mozeo, Twilio, or Textline).
  
  
• Submit business information: You’ll need to provide information about your business, including the company name, address, and type of messaging you’ll be sending (marketing, customer service, etc.).
  
  
• Campaign registration: You must also register the use case or campaign (e.g., marketing, customer support, etc.). The Campaign Registry will want to understand your messaging purpose to ensure it aligns with their regulations and guidelines
  
  
• Campaign Registry approval: The entity responsible for overseeing 10DLCs will approve your registration based on the information provided. While the process is usually quicker than short codes, some review is still involved.
  
  

Toll-Free Number Registration

 Here are the general registration steps for toll-free numbers.

• Choose a toll-free number provider: You must choose an SMS provider that supports toll-free messaging.
  
  
• Submit business information: Similar to 10DLC, you’ll be asked to provide details about your business and the type of messages you plan to send.
  
  
• Phone number registration: Once you’ve provided your information, the SMS provider and aggregator (Twilio) will process the registration.
  
  
• Compliance checks: Toll-free numbers for SMS are subject to certain compliance checks, and they cannot be used for all types of messaging (e.g., high-volume marketing).
  
  

4. Add Contacts and Start Messaging 

Now that you've selected your SMS provider, chosen the right phone number type, and completed the registration process, you’re ready to start messaging your customers! You’ll want to first add your SMS contacts to your address book. Whether you're sending one-time promotions, ongoing updates, or customer support messages, you'll need to ensure that you received opt-ins from your customers.

Here are a few tips to launch your SMS campaign effectively.

• Keep it short and sweet: SMS is all about brevity. Keep your messages concise and to the point. A traditional SMS message is 160 characters.
  
  
• Use a clear call-to-action (CTA): Be direct about what you want the recipient to do. Whether clicking a link, replying to the message, or purchasing, your CTA should be obvious and easy to follow.
  
  
• Optimize the timing of your messages: Timing matters. Avoid sending messages at odd hours (like late at night or early in the morning). Be considerate of time zones and plan your campaigns accordingly.
  
  
• Segment your contact list. Not all your customers will want the same kind of message. By segmenting your contact list, you can send targeted and more relevant messages that resonate with different groups within your audience. This ensures your messages are tailored to the needs and interests of each group, making them more effective.
  
  

Key Benefits of Using a Business Texting Number 

Using a business texting number via an SMS provider brings a lot of advantages for both small and large enterprises. It’s a powerful tool for engaging with customers, improving communication, and scaling your business.

Keep Your Personal Phone Personal

One of the primary reasons businesses opt for a business texting number is to keep their personal phone number separate from work. This maintains:

• Privacy and work-life balance
• Professionalism as your messages come from a business phone
• Organization as all messages will be in a separate inbox 
  
  

Get Your Messages Read 

Business texting has great engagement rates, ensuring you can get your marketing, customer support, and other important messages read. Here are a few stats that show how SMS helps messages get opened and read.

• Texting offers 98% open rates.
• Texting gets a reply 45% of the time, and most texts are read within five minutes.
• Texts go directly to your customers' home screens.
  
  

Text at Scale

If you're running a successful business, you’ll eventually need to communicate with many customers simultaneously. Using a business texting app offers other advantages, such as:

• High-volume messaging: You can send thousands of texts at once with mass texting. A broadcast text is similar to an email blast but for texts.
• Compliance: SMS providers have key opt-in and opt-out mechanisms to help you comply with key texting laws like the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. 

Automate to Save Time

SMS platforms allow you to automate texting workflows. Automation is a game-changer for businesses, allowing them to stay in regular contact with customers without requiring constant manual effort. For example, you could set up automatic text replies based on keywords or availability. You could also set a series of time-delayed texts or drip campaigns.

Frequently Asked Questions about Business Texting 

Can I Get a Free Business Texting Number?

 Many SMS platforms offer a free trial, which allows you to test a business texting number for free. But post-trial, you will have to sign up for a paid plan. 

Is it Legal for Businesses to Text Customers?

YES! It is legal for businesses to text customers, but you need to follow important legal requirements and regulations to ensure compliance and avoid penalties. For example, you must obtain consent to text customers.

Can I Get a Text-Only Number for Business?

Yes, you can get a text-only number for business, and it’s a very popular option for companies looking to streamline their communication channels. 

What if I want a Business Phone Number for Voice and Text?

Some SMS platforms, like Mozeo, enable you to both call and text from the same phone number. You can often voice-enable a texting number or text-enable a landline.

Ready to Get Your Own Business Texting Number?

If you’re ready to get your own business texting number, look no further than Mozeo. The Mozeo team helps our customers choose the right phone number type for their needs and get that number set up.

But that’s not all. Mozeo’s platform is designed to help businesses like yours communicate effectively and professionally via text. Mozeo is an all-in-one SMS provider that offers a variety of features, making it easy to manage voice and text communication through a single number.

Whether you're just starting to use SMS for business or looking to upgrade your current system, Mozeo has you covered. Ready to get started? Join for free today.