Improving SMS Delivery Rates

Improving SMS delivery rates requires a multi-faceted approach: validating numbers, optimizing content, managing sender reputation, and choosing the right routing. This guide covers actionable strategies.

Key Takeaways

  • Pre-send validation removes invalid numbers before they hurt your reputation
  • 10DLC registration is essential for good deliverability
  • Content optimization avoids spam filter triggers
  • Sender reputation builds over time with good practices
  • Monitor metrics and iterate continuously

1. Validate Numbers Before Sending

Invalid numbers hurt your sender reputation. Before any campaign:

  • Format validation — Correct format for destination
  • Line type check — Wireless numbers receive SMS; many landlines don't
  • Activity check — Detect disconnected numbers
  • Carrier lookup — Identify current carrier for routing

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2. Complete 10DLC Registration

Unregistered senders face severe filtering. 10DLC registration:

  • Increases trust with carriers
  • Improves throughput (messages per second)
  • Reduces filtering rates

3. Optimize Message Content

  • Be concise — Stay under 160 characters when possible
  • Avoid spam words — "Free", "Winner", "Act now"
  • Use full URLs — Or branded short links, not bit.ly
  • Include opt-out — "Reply STOP to unsubscribe"
  • Natural tone — Avoid ALL CAPS and excessive punctuation

4. Build Sender Reputation

Reputation improves with consistent good behavior:

  • Start slowly — Gradually increase volume
  • Maintain consent — Only message opted-in recipients
  • Honor opt-outs — Remove immediately when requested
  • Low complaints — Keep spam reports under 0.1%

5. Monitor and Iterate

Track these metrics and adjust:

  • Delivery rate — Target 95%+ for validated lists
  • Opt-out rate — High rates signal content issues
  • Complaint rate — Keep under 0.1%
  • Time to deliver — Delays indicate routing issues

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