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In the video above, Tatango CEO Derek Johnson answers the question, “How much is a dedicated short code?” Prefer to read instead? No problem, please see the post below. You can also find answers to all of your SMS marketing questions in our Q&A video library; click here to browse.
What is a Dedicated Short Code?
A dedicated short code is a five to six-digit phone number that is owned and exclusively used by a single brand or organization to communicate with its subscribers.
On the other hand, a shared short code is owned by an SMS software provider and shared between many different brands and organizations using the SMS software.
There are two types of dedicated short codes: a dedicated vanity short code and a dedicated non-vanity short code.
How Much are Vanity vs. Non-Vanity Dedicated Short Codes?
Vanity short codes are 5-6 digit short codes that are specifically selected by a brand. Vanity short codes are sometimes chosen over non-vanity short codes because the brand or organization has more control over the selection of digits.
A greater amount of flexibility can help brands choose simple and easy-to-recall short codes, which can be beneficial when consumers see or hear the short code on the radio, on billboards, or in commercials. It’s much easier for consumers to recall the shortcode is when they want to text in later, than it is to remember a random set of numbers.
For example, vanity short codes would be numbers like 23123, 313131, 711711, etc. The base price of any vanity short code costs $1,000 per month. Below is an example of a dedicated vanity short code, 91099.
Compared to vanity short codes that are selected by the brand, non-vanity short codes are 5-6 digit short codes generated at random, then approved for use. Non-vanity short codes provide less flexibility for digit selection.
Digit selection is important for visual and audio clarity, as well as recall. The simpler the combination of digits, the easier for consumers to remember.
For example, non-vanity short codes would be numbers like 39712, 958372, 34930, etc. The base price for non-vanity short code costs $500 per month.
Below is an example of a dedicated non-vanity short code, 81058.
Vanity short codes provide a solution for brands who want more flexibility in selecting the short code that represents its brand, but at a higher cost. Non-vanity short codes offer an option for brands that don’t need specific short codes, at half the price.
If you have any questions regarding the purchase of a short code for your text message marketing program, don’t hesitate to contact our sales and support team.
