Seven Critical Things to Know Before Registering for A2P 10DLC

If you're a business looking to engage with customers through SMS in the US, you've probably come across the term "A2P 10DLC." This seemingly complex acronym actually refers to a crucial registration process that ensures the legitimacy and reliability of Application-to-Person (A2P) messaging. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the most important things to know when registering for A2P 10DLC, so you can make the most of your SMS communications while staying compliant with industry regulations.

1. Understanding A2P 10DLC

A2P 10DLC stands for Application-to-Person 10-Digit Long Code. It is a process that authenticates your business identity and enables you to send SMS messages to customers in a secure and trusted manner. By registering for A2P 10DLC, you gain access to dedicated long codes, ensuring higher deliverability and better customer engagement.

2. P2P vs. A2P Messaging:

It's important to understand the difference between Person-to-Person (P2P) and A2P messaging. P2P messages are sent individually between individuals, while A2P messages are sent from a business to individuals. Mixing the two can lead to compliance issues and negatively impact deliverability. Make sure your business traffic is being sent on A2P approved lanes to avoid compliance issues. 

3. Benefits of A2P 10DLC:

One of the significant advantages of A2P 10DLC is improved message deliverability. With dedicated long codes, your messages are less likely to be flagged as spam, reaching your customers' inboxes reliably. Additionally, A2P 10DLC enhances your brand reputation by clearly identifying your business as the sender, fostering trust and credibility among your audience.

4. Preparing for A2P 10DLC Registration:

Before diving into the registration process, there are a few essential steps you need to take. Ensure your business information is up-to-date and consistent across all platforms. This includes your company name, EIN, address, website, and contact details. Having accurate information that matches IRS records is crucial for smooth registration and a positive customer experience.

5. Partnering with a Messaging Provider:

To register for A2P 10DLC, you'll need the support of a trusted messaging service. Your provider will guide you through the entire registration process, acting as a liaison between you and the carriers. Choose an provider with experience and a solid track record to ensure seamless registration and ongoing compliance. Avochato is one of the only messaging providers that has automated the registration process. Click here to learn more about how Avochato helps streamline the A2P registration steps.

6. Campaign Use Cases and Registration:

During the registration process, you'll be required to specify the use cases for your SMS campaigns. These use cases define the type of content you'll be sending to your customers. Common examples include transactional messages, appointment reminders, and customer service updates. Accurately categorizing your use cases is vital for compliance and transparency with carriers. It's also important to accurately register the volume of messages your send with your use case, and to describe the opt-in methods used to collect your list of contacts to ensure you are following CTIA messaging best practices. 

7. Registration Costs and Timelines:

The A2P 10DLC registration process involves fees, which can vary based on the number of campaigns and messages you plan to send. Familiarize yourself with the pricing structure and anticipate these costs in your messaging budget. Additionally, be aware that the registration process might take some time, so plan ahead to avoid disruptions to your messaging operations.

A2P 10DLC registration is a critical step for any business looking to engage customers through SMS messaging. By understanding the process, benefits, and compliance requirements, you can make informed decisions to enhance your SMS communications and build stronger relationships with your audience. Partnering with a reliable messaging provider like Avochato will streamline the registration process and ensure ongoing compliance, allowing you to focus on what matters most – connecting with your customers effectively and efficiently. Take the plunge into A2P 10DLC and experience the power of trusted SMS communication for your business!

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