SMS Marketing Blog

What’s the Difference Between Tier 1 and 2 SMS Aggregators?

18th April 2012 - Posted by Derek Johnson in category Text Message Marketing Advice

Are you looking for an SMS aggregator? The first thing you want to figure out is the difference between a tier 1 SMS aggregator and a tier 2 SMS aggregator. There are three main differences between the two different types of SMS aggregators, which you can find below.

1) Direct connection (SMPP) to the following mobile operators: AT&T, Sprint/NEXTEL, T-Mobile USA, U.S. Cellular, and Verizon Wireless.

• Tier 1 – At least 4 of the 5 mobile operators.
• Tier 2 - At least 3 of the 5 mobile operators.

2) Premium settlement agreement with the following mobile operators: AT&T, Sprint/NEXTEL, T-Mobile USA, U.S. Cellular, and Verizon Wireless.

• Tier 1 – At least 4 of the 5 mobile operators.
• Tier 2 - At least 2 of the 5 mobile operators.

3) Carrier grade capability.

• Tier 1 – SMS & MMS
• Tier 2 - Just SMS.

Below is a chart of the different tier 1 and tier 2 SMS aggregators. If you have a questions about SMS aggregators or how to get your own SMS short code, contact us, we can help with this process.