What is Long Code?

A long code is a standard 10-digit phone number used for sending and receiving SMS messages. For business messaging, long codes must be registered as 10DLC (10-Digit Long Codes) to ensure deliverability.

Long Code History

Before 10DLC registration requirements (pre-2021):

Businesses could send from any long code

No registration required

Low throughput (~1 msg/second)

High filtering risk

After 10DLC mandate:

Registration required for A2P messaging

Improved throughput based on trust score

Better deliverability

Carrier accountability

Long Code Benefits

Local presence: Numbers with local area codes

Two-way messaging: Full conversational capability

Lower cost: Cheaper than short codes

Faster setup: 36 hours with DMText (vs 8-12 weeks for short codes)

Personal feel: Recipients more likely to engage with local numbers

Registration Requirement

Unregistered long codes used for A2P messaging face:

Severe rate limiting

Message filtering/blocking

Potential number deactivation

Carrier penalties

Always register your long codes for business SMS use.