On December 1st, 2024, US carriers officially cut off all unregistered 10DLC traffic, marking the end of unregistered messaging on US 10DLC routes. Businesses that had relied on unregistered numbers for messaging were required to take immediate action to ensure compliance and avoid service interruptions. As mobile communication changes, it is more important than ever for businesses to follow the latest rules.
This blog will provide an updated overview of 10DLC, explain why it’s essential, and outline the benefits of being compliant. Although the December deadline has passed, staying informed and proactive remains key to ensuring your business stays connected with its audience.
What is 10DLC?
10DLC stands for “10-Digit Long Code.” These numbers can be used for business-to-consumer (B2C) messaging. Unlike short codes (5-6 digit sending numbers) or toll-free numbers, 10DLC gives businesses a more familiar number format for texting. It supports higher messaging volumes and ensures strong delivery capabilities.
Mobile carriers created 10DLC to meet the growing need for business texting. It offers a way to send bulk messages and updates while staying compliant. Businesses must register their 10DLC numbers and messaging campaigns with The Campaign Registry (TCR). This helps make sure their messages are real and not confused with spam.
Key Features of 10DLC:
- More Reliable Messaging – Messages coming from the same numbers consistently with higher delivery rates.
- Higher Throughput: Supports higher message volumes than traditional P2P texting, making it ideal for businesses.
- Carrier Compliance: Aligns with industry standards to improve deliverability and protect consumers from unwanted spam.
Why is 10DLC Registration Important?
The move to require 10DLC registration comes from the need to protect consumers. It also helps businesses use text message marketing effectively.
1. Combatting Spam and Fraud
With the rise of spam and fraudulent messaging, carriers have implemented stricter measures to ensure that messages reaching consumers are credible. By requiring 10DLC registration, mobile carriers can filter out unregistered, potentially harmful messages and prioritize legitimate business communications.
2. Ensuring Message Deliverability
If you do not register your 10DLC numbers, mobile carriers will likely restrict your messages due to the new industry standards. Registration is the gateway to uninterrupted text message communication, allowing your campaigns to reach your audience without interference.
3. Legal and Industry Compliance
Non-compliance with 10DLC regulations not only risks message blocks but can also expose businesses to legal repercussions. By registering your 10DLC numbers, you demonstrate adherence to the regulatory framework, safeguarding your reputation and operations.
4. Enhanced Customer Trust
When consumers receive messages from a trusted source, their confidence in your brand increases. Registering through TCR makes sure your messages are verified. This lowers the chance of being marked as spam or ignored by recipients.
What Does 10DLC Mean for Your Business?
The December 1, 2024, deadline marked a pivotal moment for businesses using 10DLC to communicate via text messaging. Any unregistered 10DLC numbers are now subject to carrier blocks, effectively cutting off a vital channel of communication.
Key Points to Remember:
- Mandatory Registration: All businesses must register their 10DLC numbers with TCR. This is needed to keep sending text messages using 10-digit long codes.
- Carrier Enforcement: Mobile carriers are now blocking unregistered messages to protect consumers from spam and ensure compliance.
- Avoid Disruptions: If you haven’t registered yet, do so immediately to restore or maintain your text messaging capabilities without additional fees.
How to Register if You Haven’t Yet:
Note: If you’re a Springbig customer we will handle this for you. Simply reach out to your point of contact at Springbig.
- Submit Business Information: Provide details about your business, including its legal name, address, and tax identification number.
- Register Campaigns: Explain the purpose of your messaging campaigns, like communications or customer updates. Also, describe the type of content you will send.
- Partner with Your Provider: Many messaging platforms, like Springbig, offer streamlined 10DLC registration services to simplify the process.
The Benefits of Being 10DLC Compliant
Following 10DLC rules helps keep your service running smoothly. It also offers many benefits that improve your messaging strategy.
1. Improved Message Deliverability
Registered 10DLC numbers benefit from higher delivery rates since carriers prioritize verified messages. This means your audience is more likely to receive and engage with your content.
2. Increased Credibility and Trust
Compliance adds a layer of authenticity to your messaging, reassuring customers that your business is legitimate. With spam messages on the rise, standing out as a trustworthy communicator can set you apart from competitors.
3. Access to Higher Throughput Rates
10DLC registration unlocks higher message throughput rates, enabling businesses to send messages faster and at scale. This is particularly advantageous during time-sensitive campaigns or high-demand periods.
4. Legal and Financial Protection
Compliance protects your business from fines, legal disputes, or reputation damage associated with unregistered messaging. It ensures you’re operating within the boundaries of industry regulations.
Steps to Ensure Compliance:
Here are actionable steps to prepare your business for 10DLC compliance:
Step 1: Audit Your Messaging Practices
Review all 10-digit long codes used for text messaging and determine which numbers need registration.
Step 2: Partner with a Reliable Provider
Work with a messaging provider like Springbig that offers seamless 10DLC registration support and can guide you through the process.
Step 3: Gather Necessary Information
Compile the required business and campaign details, such as your business EIN, campaign use cases, and sample messages.
Step 4: Complete Registration
Don’t wait! Registering ensures your campaigns remain uninterrupted.
Step 5: Stay Updated on Industry Changes
Regulations surrounding 10DLC are continuously evolving. Keep abreast of updates to maintain compliance and optimize your messaging strategies.
Why Registration Matters
Unregistered messages will not reach their intended recipients, disrupting your communication flow and potentially impacting your revenue. By registering, you avoid:
- Delays caused by high demand near the deadline.
- Missed opportunities to engage with your audience.
- Reputational damage due to service interruptions.
Conclusion
As the December 1, 2024 deadline has now passed, ensuring your compliance with 10DLC rules is essential for your business. By understanding the importance of 10DLC and registering your numbers with TCR, your business can restore or maintain strong, compliant connections with your audience and thrive in the world of text message marketing.
Take proactive steps today to secure your messaging future. Partner with trusted platforms like Springbig to simplify the registration process and unlock the full potential of 10DLC. With compliance in place, you can keep your campaigns running smoothly and continue building meaningful connections with your audience.
Don’t wait—register your 10DLC numbers now and keep your campaigns running smoothly!
