{"id":14958,"date":"2025-04-14T07:02:00","date_gmt":"2025-04-14T07:02:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sinchimportfinal.local\/blog\/us-short-codes-vs-long-codes-vs-toll-free-numbers-whats-the-difference\/"},"modified":"2025-06-19T13:34:10","modified_gmt":"2025-06-19T13:34:10","slug":"us-short-codes-vs-long-codes-vs-toll-free-numbers-whats-the-difference","status":"publish","type":"blog","link":"https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/us-short-codes-vs-long-codes-vs-toll-free-numbers-whats-the-difference\/","title":{"rendered":"10DLC vs toll-free vs short code: Choose the right number type"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Navigating the realm of text messaging in the U.S. and Canada can feel a bit like tackling a maze \u2013 especially when it comes to choosing the right phone number type to text your customer base with. Are you debating between using 10DLC, toll-free, or short codes to text your customers? You\u2019re not alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding the nuances between these options is crucial to running a successful&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/sms-campaigns\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SMS campaign<\/a>. Let\u2019s start with a short overview of 10DLC and toll-free numbers, as well as 10DLC vs short codes, to help you make the best choice for your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10DLC vs toll-free vs short codes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So, you want to text your North American customers \u2013 but you\u2019re not sure how to do it?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a quick run-through of your options: 10DLC (10-digit long code) is a specialized local long code number that allows businesses to send text messages from 10-digit phone numbers. Toll-free numbers can be text-enabled so you can communicate with customers via SMS and MMS. And short codes are five- to six-digit numbers that are best suited for high-volume messaging within short periods of time.<\/p>\n\n\n\r\n\t                    <div class=\"iframe-responsive-container lazy-video \">\r\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=eenkzyVd01k\" class=\"lazy-video-link\" data-lazy-video=\"eenkzyVd01k\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\" role=\"button\" data-source=\"youtube\" data-thumb=\"https:\/\/img.youtube.com\/vi\/eenkzyVd01k\/maxresdefault.jpg\" title=\"Sinch Video\">\r\n                    <div class=\"btn btn-light btn-light-social btn-play btn-play-circle\">\r\n                                                    <svg aria-hidden=\"true\" data-url=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/sinch-core\/assets\/icons\/sinch\/play.svg\"><\/svg>\r\n                                            <\/div>\r\n                    <img decoding=\"async\"  src=\"https:\/\/img.youtube.com\/vi\/eenkzyVd01k\/maxresdefault.jpg\" alt=\"Experts explain 10DLC vs toll-free vs short code\">\r\n                <\/a>\r\n            <\/div>\r\n                        <script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\r\n            {\n    \"@context\": \"http:\/\/schema.org\",\n    \"@type\": \"VideoObject\",\n    \"@id\": \"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=eenkzyVd01k#VideoObject\",\n    \"thumbnailUrl\": \"https:\/\/img.youtube.com\/vi\/eenkzyVd01k\/maxresdefault.jpg\",\n    \"embedUrl\": \"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/eenkzyVd01k\",\n    \"contentUrl\": \"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=eenkzyVd01k\",\n    \"name\": \"Experts explain 10DLC vs toll-free vs short code\",\n    \"description\": \"Confused about which business texting number to choose? Our experts break down the three main options for SMS messaging in North America. Learn the key differences between 10DLC (10-digit long codes), short codes, and toll-free numbers. \\n\\nGet more details on our blog: https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/us-short-codes-vs-long-codes-vs-toll-free-numbers-whats-the-difference\/\\n\\nHighlights\\n\\n\\ud83d\\udcf1 Short codes: 5-6 digit numbers best for high-volume senders who need to send millions of messages quickly. They are the oldest type and the \\u201cgold standard.\\u201d\\n\\ud83c\\udfe2 10DLC (10-digit long code): Allows businesses to use their existing landline phone numbers for texting, enabling peer-to-peer messaging with customers. Perfect for smaller businesses sending appointment reminders or promotions.\\n\\ud83d\\udcde Toll-free numbers: 10-digit long codes starting with 800, 833, or 844, allowing customers to contact businesses via text without paying long distance fees. This provides an additional channel for customer support.\\n\\ud83e\\udd14 Choosing the right option: The best choice depends on the specific needs of the business. Short codes are for high-volume senders, while 10DLC and toll-free are ideal for smaller businesses looking to add texting capabilities to their existing phone numbers.\\n\\ud83e\\udd1d All about business messaging: Ultimately, all three types of numbers serve the same purpose: to facilitate business messaging and offer customers a convenient way to connect with businesses.\\n\\nAbout Sinch\\nSinch is the Customer Communications Cloud. Whether you need to verify users or craft omnichannel campaigns, Sinch makes it simple. With our suite of APIs, ready-to-use applications, and tailored solutions, you can easily reach your customers through mobile messaging, voice, and email. Trusted by over 150,000 businesses worldwide\\u2014including leading names like Google, Uber, Paypal, and Visa\\u2014Sinch stands out for its unmatched reliability, security, and global reach. With our Global Super Network and AI-enriched products, we are pioneering the way the world communicates, ensuring that every customer interaction is seamless and secure. https:\/\/www.sinch.com\/\\n\\n#SMS #10DLC\",\n    \"uploadDate\": \"2024-11-08T14:08:26+00:00\",\n    \"duration\": \"PT2M9S\"\n}        <\/script>\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><sub><em>Watch the video to learn the key differences between 10DLC, short codes, and toll-free numbers.&nbsp;<\/em>&nbsp;<\/sub><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are also long numbers, but these are for P2P messaging only (and are going out of style \u2013 we go into this down below).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a closer look at each type of phone number option, followed by some tips on choosing the best fit for your business. Take a look at the image below \u2013 can you spot what sets them apart, at least from a recipient\u2019s perspective?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"439\" src=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs.-short-codes-and-toll-free-numbers-side-by-side-1024x439.jpg\" alt=\"10DLC, short code, and toll-free enabled SMS messages side-by-side\" class=\"wp-image-109908\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs.-short-codes-and-toll-free-numbers-side-by-side-1024x439.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs.-short-codes-and-toll-free-numbers-side-by-side-300x129.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs.-short-codes-and-toll-free-numbers-side-by-side-768x329.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs.-short-codes-and-toll-free-numbers-side-by-side.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>10DLC, short code, and SMS-enabled toll-free numbers are all options for businesses to send and receive SMS and MMS messages.&nbsp;<\/em>&nbsp;<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What\u2019s a 10-digit long code, or 10DLC?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/what-is-10dlc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10-digit long code (10DLC)<\/a>&nbsp;is a specialized phone number type that U.S. mobile operators have given a green light for application-to-person (A2P) messaging. 10DLCs allow businesses to send text messages directly to their customers using a 10-digit (landline) phone number that mirrors the familiar format of personal phone numbers. They support voice services and MMS, but not delivery receipts, unlike short codes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"878\" src=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs.-short-codes-and-toll-free-numbers-10DLC-number-1024x878.jpg\" alt=\"10DLC message on a mobile phone\" class=\"wp-image-109920\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs.-short-codes-and-toll-free-numbers-10DLC-number-1024x878.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs.-short-codes-and-toll-free-numbers-10DLC-number-300x257.jpg 300w, https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs.-short-codes-and-toll-free-numbers-10DLC-number-768x658.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs.-short-codes-and-toll-free-numbers-10DLC-number.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">10DLC numbers allow you to have a single, centralized number that enables 2-way conversations with customers over SMS, MMS, or voice.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A2P 10DLC is a great choice for businesses that need to send alerts, reminders,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/one-time-password\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">one-time passwords (OTPs)<\/a>, or promotional content. It\u2019s especially beneficial if you depend on notifications to keep your audience in the loop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What\u2019s an SMS-enabled toll-free number?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Toll-free numbers are numbers with distinct three-digit prefixes (800, 833, 844, 855, 866, 877, 888) that can be dialed from landlines with no charge to the caller. These numbers are available in the U.S. and Canada and have been sanctioned as a business messaging channel for several years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can enable any toll-free numbers to send and receive <a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/toll-free-texting\/\">toll-free texts<\/a> and use this number for all types of A2P messaging, including SMS marketing (remember, though, that it\u2019s important that users have&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/sms-opt-in\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">opted-in<\/a>&nbsp;to receive marketing content!). They\u2019re also great for&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/transactional-sms\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">transactional messages<\/a>&nbsp;like appointment reminders and OTPs, and verification messages. They support voice, MMS, and delivery receipts.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"512\" src=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs-toll-free-vs-short-code-Choose-the-right-number-type-02-1024x512.webp\" alt=\"SMS-enabled toll-free number message on mobile phone\" class=\"wp-image-54289\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs-toll-free-vs-short-code-Choose-the-right-number-type-02-1024x512.webp 1024w, https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs-toll-free-vs-short-code-Choose-the-right-number-type-02-300x150.webp 300w, https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs-toll-free-vs-short-code-Choose-the-right-number-type-02-768x384.webp 768w, https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs-toll-free-vs-short-code-Choose-the-right-number-type-02.webp 1366w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Example of a shipping notification that was sent to a customer via an SMS-enabled toll-free number.&nbsp;<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201cA toll-free number is also a 10-digit long code, but it\u2019s a specific type that starts with an 8XX area code. Those prefixes are specifically called \u201ctoll-free.\u201d They came about for voice to enable long-distance voice calling without having to page a long-distance fee.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A business can take that number, add messaging to it, and then their customers can contact them via text as well. It gives customers another avenue to contact a business and get the help and support they need.\u201d&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>-Meredith Wiegman, Commercial Product Manager&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What\u2019s an SMS short code?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/short-code-texting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Short codes<\/a>, which are typically five to six (or eight) digit numbers, can be used for A2P messaging in the U.S. and Canada. The numbers are both carrier- and country-specific. They support SMS, MMS, and delivery receipts, but not voice.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs-toll-free-vs-short-code-Choose-the-right-number-type-03-1024x667.webp\" alt=\"short code SMS message on a mobile phone\" class=\"wp-image-54295\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs-toll-free-vs-short-code-Choose-the-right-number-type-03-1024x667.webp 1024w, https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs-toll-free-vs-short-code-Choose-the-right-number-type-03-300x195.webp 300w, https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs-toll-free-vs-short-code-Choose-the-right-number-type-03-768x500.webp 768w, https:\/\/sinch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/SI-Blog-10DLC-vs-toll-free-vs-short-code-Choose-the-right-number-type-03.webp 1366w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Example of a promotional message sent via a short code.&nbsp;<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Because they\u2019re easy to remember, short codes are primarily used for widespread&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/sms-marketing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SMS marketing<\/a>&nbsp;campaigns and alerts. They handle a high volume of messages per second, making them great for large-scale, one-way communications that you want to be delivered immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201cShort code is the gold standard; it\u2019s been around the longest. If you want to [send] millions of messages in minutes, short code is the way to go.\u201d&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8211; David Schwind, Sr. Commercial Product Manager, Sinch&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What\u2019s a long number?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Long numbers are for P2P messaging only. <strong>You can\u2019t use them for marketing or A2P messaging in the U.S. And they\u2019re going out of style! In fact, U.S.<\/strong> carriers have mandated that all businesses using long numbers switch to a sanctioned business messaging channel (short code, 10DLC, or toll-free) or face fees, fines, and heavy filtering or blocking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Choosing between 10DLC, short codes, and toll-free numbers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to picking the perfect SMS number type for your business, it\u2019s not a one-size-fits-all situation. Your choice depends on what your business needs and how quickly you want to start messaging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s figure out what works best for you! Here are some questions to ask yourself as you get started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Who do you want your messaging to reach?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>First, consider your business goals and what you want to convey to your audience \u2013 is it about building brand recognition, or showcasing a local presence? Based on this, you can choose the right<a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/long-code-vs-short-code\/\"> type of number<\/a> to connect with your audience effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Short and snappy, short codes are easy to remember and generate high levels of engagement with customers nationwide. If you\u2019re hoping to gain brand recognition and are expecting high volumes of customer interactions as a result of your SMS and MMS messages, then short codes are the way to go!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Toll-free numbers can help maximize your reach, since you can use one number for both the U.S. and Canada. Besides, most customers already use toll-free numbers to call companies today, so use these trusted numbers to engage in 2-way conversations with them via SMS, or MMS too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But if a local presence is important to you, consider 10DLC. With these area-code specific numbers, you can start 2-way conversations and send powerful messages, including images or video with MMS, to get campaigns noticed. With 10DLC, you also avoid getting caught up in spam filters with carrier campaign registration. All important things when it comes to trusted messaging!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. What features do you need?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need one number for your business that supports calls and text, then both toll-free and 10DLC numbers are great choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Does your message program require \u201cfree to end user\u201d (FTEU) messages? Short codes are the only channel that support this special use case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need to be absolutely sure that a message reaches the end user, choose short code or toll-free \u2013 both support handset delivery receipts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. How many messages will you be sending?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to sending hundreds of messages per second (mps), short code is the best option. You can reach 500 mps or more with a short code.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The standard throughput on a toll-free number depends on account and supplier configuration, but these numbers can allow for fast message delivery (at speeds comparable to short codes) depending on the use case. 10DLC speeds also vary with the type of business and messaging use case and can reach speeds up to 75 mps \u2013 or more (special carrier approval is required).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. How quickly do you want to start sending?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In a hurry? 10DLC and toll-free numbers take only a few days to set up. If you have a straightforward use case, you can register and activate a 10DLC number in a matter of days, if not the same day. Keep in mind, though, that if you have specific throughput needs, a 10DLC may take 5 to 8 weeks for approval. Likewise, toll-free numbers take only a few days to register and activate. So, if it\u2019s speed-to-market you\u2019re after, then look at 10DLC or toll-free numbers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Short codes go through a rigorous approval process, which means they\u2019re some of the most trusted numbers around. Because of their lengthier review process with U.S. carriers, it can take 5 to 8 weeks before you can begin sending messages from a short code. Once approved, short codes are a reliable and fast messaging channel for your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do 10DLC, short codes, toll-free numbers, and long numbers compare?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a quick chart that compares the different functionality of different types of phone numbers you can use for two-way SMS or MMS messaging for the U.S. or Canada when you send messages through Sinch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td>&nbsp;<\/td><td><strong>10DLC&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Short code&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Toll-free number&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Traditional long number&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Digit length&nbsp;<\/td><td>10 digits&nbsp;<\/td><td>5-6 digits&nbsp;<\/td><td>10 digits \u2013 8XX prefix&nbsp;<\/td><td>10 digits&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Messaging model&nbsp;<\/td><td>A2P&nbsp;<\/td><td>A2P&nbsp;<\/td><td>A2P&nbsp;<\/td><td>P2P&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Voice enabled&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes&nbsp;<\/td><td>No&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Requires brand vetting&nbsp;<\/td><td>Recommended&nbsp;<\/td><td>No&nbsp;<\/td><td>No&nbsp;<\/td><td>No&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Requires campaign approval&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes, via TCR (The Campaign Registry)&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes&nbsp;<\/td><td>No&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Provisioning&nbsp;<\/td><td>Standard: 7-10 business days&nbsp;SBC: 3-4 weeks&nbsp;<\/td><td>5-8 weeks<\/td><td>1-5 business days&nbsp;<\/td><td>1-3 business days&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Throughput&nbsp;<\/td><td>Up to 75 msg\/sec with MNO approval&nbsp;<\/td><td>500 msg\/sec&nbsp;<\/td><td>10 msg\/sec*&nbsp;<\/td><td>1 msg\/sec&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Delivery receipts (DLRs)&nbsp;<\/td><td>T-Mobile only; SMSC DLRs in rest of NANP**&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes, U.S. and Canada (Tier 1 Carriers)&nbsp;<\/td><td>No&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>MMS&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes, U.S. and Canada&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes, U.S. only&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes, U.S. and Canada&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes, U.S. and Canada&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Two-way\/Keywords required&nbsp;<\/td><td>Opt-in\/out and HELP&nbsp;<\/td><td>Opt-in\/out and HELP&nbsp;<\/td><td>STOP, UNSTOP\/START \u2013 Network managed&nbsp;<\/td><td>No&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>FTEU&nbsp;<\/td><td>Not supported&nbsp;<\/td><td>Available&nbsp;<\/td><td>Not supported&nbsp;<\/td><td>Not supported&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Vanity numbers&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes&nbsp;<\/td><td>Yes&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Reach&nbsp;<\/td><td>U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico&nbsp;<\/td><td>Country-specific&nbsp;<\/td><td>NANP**&nbsp;<\/td><td>NANP**&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>* Standard throughput is 10 msg\/sec. Higher throughput is available, depending on the use case, at speeds comparable to short codes. Contact us to get more information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>** NANP: North American Numbering Plan countries: U.S., Canada, U.S. territories, and the Caribbean.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Next steps for using 10DLC, short codes, and toll-free numbers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing a phone number type for sending and receiving texts is a big step towards connecting with your customers. But before you dive into using&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/sms-for-business-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SMS for business communication<\/a>, there are a few things you should know.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First, check out\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/how-to-choose-sms-provider\/\">how to choose the right SMS provider<\/a>\u00a0and evaluate their performance. Next, check out our\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/blog\/sms-compliance-guide\/\">U.S. SMS compliance guide<\/a>\u00a0for tips and rules to help keep your business on track. Then, make sure to learn the business benefits of sending texts via a dedicated text messaging platform like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sinch.com\/engage\">Sinch Engage<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Or, if you\u2019re looking for an even more flexible solution, check out the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/apis\/messaging\/sms\/\">Sinch SMS API<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/sinch.com\/contact-us\/\">contact us<\/a>\u00a0to schedule a time to chat with an expert.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":109902,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"tags":[],"blog_category":[75],"class_list":["post-14958","blog","type-blog","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","blog_category-products"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>SMS Short Codes vs Long Codes &amp; 10DLC vs Toll-Free - Sinch<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Long code or short code? 10DLC or toll-free? 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