A gateway is a system that acts as a bridge, enabling the sending and receiving of text messages between different networks or applications. Essentially, it allows a computer or software application to communicate with mobile phones over the global telecommunications network.
The choice between gateway types hinges entirely on what kind of communication you’ll need to facilitate and what specific kinds of communication you are planning on doing.
Gateway Types:
10-Digit long code (10DLC)
A 10-Digit long code (10DLC) is a 'regular' phone number that consists of an area code and seven additional numbers. US toll-free numbers are not considered 10-digit long codes.
A 10DLC number uses a local area code, which can foster a sense of familiarity and trust with recipients. This is particularly beneficial for businesses with a local customer base (e.g., local businesses, restaurants, or service providers) as messages appear to come from a familiar, local source.
Example: “555-555-5555”
Registration Timeline
Once all 10DLC registration steps have been followed, it will typically take 2-3 weeks to verify.
For more on registering a 10DLC, check out Carrier Registration Requirements
High-throughput toll-free (HTTF)
High-throughput toll-free (HTTF) numbers offer a messaging speed that bridges the gap between traditional long codes and shortcodes. This makes them well-suited for a variety of mid-scale communication needs, including marketing campaigns, sales outreach, customer support interactions, and important notifications.
Toll-Free numbers project a national or international brand image. They are instantly recognizable as a business number and foster trust on a broader scale, as customers know they won't be charged for calling or texting them.
Example: “1-800-555-5555”
Registration Timeline
Once all HTTF registration steps have been followed, it will typically take 2-3 weeks to verify.
For more on registering a HTTF, check out Carrier Registration Requirements
Short Codes
Short Codes are 5-6 digit phone numbers specifically designed for high-volume, application-to-person (A2P) messaging. They are primarily used for sending large-scale text messages for marketing, alerts, and two-factor authentication.
A 5 or 6-digit number is much easier to recall and type than a 10-digit number. This simplicity is highly beneficial for advertising campaigns (e.g., "Text JOIN to 12345") where consumers need to remember the number quickly. Short codes convey a sense of professionalism and legitimacy. They are often associated with large, established brands, which can enhance customer trust and engagement.
Example: “88888”
Registration Timeline
Once all short code registration steps have been followed, it will typically take 8-12 weeks to verify.
For more on registering a short code, check out Carrier Registration Requirements