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Complete SMS Guidelines for the United States

Sending SMS messages in the United States requires careful attention to compliance, message length, and carrier-specific fees. This guide provides essential information to ensure your messages are compliant, properly formatted, and effectively delivered.

Locale Overview

  • Locale Name: United States
  • ISO Code: US
  • Region: North America
  • Mobile Country Code: 310, 311
  • Dialing Code: +1

Two-Way SMS and Number Portability

In the U.S., two-way SMS is supported, allowing businesses to interact with customers via SMS. Number portability enables users to retain their phone numbers when switching carriers, ensuring seamless communication.

Message Length and Concatenation

SMS messages can be up to 1600 characters long. If exceeded, concatenated messages split the message into segments that are reassembled at the recipient’s end, ensuring seamless delivery.

MMS Support

Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) is supported, allowing for media-rich messages with pictures and videos, enhancing business communication.

Sending SMS to Landline Numbers

When sending SMS to landlines, some carriers may convert the SMS into a text-to-speech message via a voice call, altering the recipient experience.

Compliance and Non-Compliance Fees

Compliance is crucial. Consult legal counsel to adhere to laws and regulations, and comply with Sent’s Acceptable Use Policy and Messaging Policy.

T-Mobile Non-Compliance Fees

Non-compliance fees are imposed for violations of messaging guidelines:

  • Long Code Messaging Program Evasion: $1,000 for unauthorized techniques like snowshoeing.
  • Content Violation: $10,000 per instance for violations involving SHAFT (Sex, Hate, Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco), spam, or phishing.

Best Practices for Compliance

  1. Review Use Cases: Consult legal counsel to ensure compliance with laws.
  2. Adhere to Policies: Follow Sent’s Acceptable Use Policy and Messaging Policy.
  3. Avoid Violations: Ensure content complies with T-Mobile’s Code of Conduct.

Conclusion

Understanding and adhering to SMS guidelines in the U.S. is essential for effective communication. By following these guidelines, you can avoid penalties and ensure a smooth messaging experience.

For more information on compliance, visit the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) website.