Long Code vs. Short Code Numbers: What’s the Difference

Short codes and long codes are two types of numbers that can send and receive SMS messages. SMS messages have a 98% open rate, making texting a great strategy for driving business growth. 

Short codes and long codes serve different purposes and include unique standout features. Read on to learn the main differences between short code vs. long code and how to determine which phone number type is right for your business. 

Jump right to:

• What is a Short Code?
• What is a Long Code?
• Short Code vs. Long Code: What’s the Difference?
• How to Choose a Phone Number Type for My Business
  
  

What is a Short Code?

An SMS short code is a 5 or 6-digit number that can send and receive texts at scale. SMS short codes are used for high-volume texting campaigns and are easy for customers to remember, which helps boost brand recognition. Short codes also increase customer trust as extensive vetting is required before businesses can obtain SMS short codes.

Short codes leased specifically for one unique business are called dedicated short codes. The two types of dedicated short codes include vanity and random.  

• Vanity short codes. Also called memorable short codes, these are  specific and easy-to-remember numbers that your brand chooses. Because your brand gets to hand-pick the numbers in the short code, vanity codes are more expensive. An example of a memorable shortcode would be: 787878.
  
  

• Random short codes. These short codes are randomly generated for you. Random short codes are less expensive, but you aren’t able to choose or customize the codes. An example of a random short code would be: 836472. 
  
  

What is a Long Code?

An SMS long code is a 10-digit phone number used for text conversations with customers. Long codes are built for small-scale communications between friends and family, as well as larger-scale brand campaigns when registered. There are different types of long-codes, including toll-free and 10DLC. With recognizable long codes, businesses can use the same number for texting and calling.

The core types of long codes include:

• 10DLC. A 10-digit long code is similar to a standard cell phone number. They contain local area codes that are recognized by customers. 10DLCs support mass texting, conversational messaging, voice capabilities, and international texting. Landline phone numbers and VoIP numbers fall into the 10DLC category. 

• Toll-free number. This code is a 10-digit number that begins with an 800-number prefix. Customers can call toll-free numbers from landlines for free. Toll-free numbers have more flexible registration requirements, and they are the most cost-effective type of phone number. 
  
  

Short Code vs. Long Code: What’s the Difference?

Here are the key differences between a short code vs. long code, laid out. 

• Appearance: SMS short codes are 5 or 6-digit codes while long codes are 10 digits like traditional phone numbers. 
  
  
• Cost: SMS short codes cost between $500 and $1,000 a month just to lease. That cost is before additional fees for registration and SMS services. The cost of a long code varies by SMS provider but typically costs much less than short codes. At Mozeo, for example, plans start at $30 a month and include one 10DLC number. 
  
  
• Best for: SMS short codes are best for large mass messages like marketing campaigns, two-factor authentication (2FA), and polling. SMS long codes are best for local businesses or companies who want to engage in one-on-one messaging with customers. 
  
  
• Medium: Both short and long codes include SMS (Short Message Service) and MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service). Long codes support voice calls, while short codes do not. 
  
  
• Throughput: SMS short codes can send up to 400 MPS (Messages Per Second), while long codes can only send up to 225 MPS (if your business passes an extensive vetting process). Short codes have the highest text message throughput of all phone number types, meaning they send messages the fastest.
  
  
• Set up time: Shortcodes will take the longest to get up and running. That’s because there’s a longer registration process. 10DLC and toll-free numbers won’t take as long.

How to Choose a Phone Number Type for Your Business

When deciding between a long code vs. short code for your business, there are many factors to consider. To help you choose the right number, determine your use case for texting,  budget, message volume, and preferred phone number appearance. 

Use Case

One of the most significant factors in deciding on a phone number is to determine what you are using SMS for. This will help you identify the features you need from your phone number. For example:

• If you need to send large-scale mass text messages, pick a short code. 
• If you need voice calls in addition to texts, choose a long code. 
• If you only need one-way communication, look into a short code. 
• If you need two-way communication, choose a long code. 
• If you need to set up a text line quickly, a long code is likely the better choice.

Budget

Cost is another significant factor when choosing a phone number type. Short codes cost between $500 and $1,000 a month to lease from the U.S. Short Code Registry. This lease price excludes additional fees for registration, SMS platforms, and messaging costs. Short codes are a pricier option for businesses but are worth it for brands who have the budget and are looking to send mass messages. 

On the other hand, 10DLC and toll-free numbers are more cost-effective options. Businesses using a 10DLC must pay set-up and registration fees, but these typically remain under $50. Toll-free numbers are even more cost-effective. 

Message Volume

If you want to run large-scale mass texting campaigns, a short code will be your best option. Short codes can send up to 400 messages per second, while registered long codes can reach up to 225 messages per second if your business has a high-rated approval after the vetting process. SMS short codes have the highest throughput rate and can reach the most contacts the quickest. 

Visual Considerations

The last factor to consider is how you want your phone number to appear when you message customers. Do you want a short five or six-digit number that builds strong branding and is easy for customers to remember? Do you want a professional-looking 800 number that reflects legitimacy? Or do you want a local-looking phone number?

Set Your Business Up for Success with Mozeo

Now that you understand the features of a long code vs short code, it’s time to choose the right SMS platform to send and receive messages with. Mozeo supports both long and short codes and makes your number registration experience hassle-free. 

If you’re looking to set up an SMS code with ease, request your demo with Mozeo today!