What is a short code?
A short code is a 4-6 digit number designed for high-volume messaging. Short codes offer:- Highest throughput (up to 100 MPS in US)
- Carrier-approved for A2P and promotional messaging
- Bypass carrier content filtering
- Easy to remember for customers
Which countries support short codes?
| Country | Digits | Types | SMS | MMS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 5-6 | Random, Vanity | Yes | Yes |
| Canada | 5-6 | Random | Yes | No |
| Brazil | 5 | Random | Yes | No |
| New Zealand | 4 | FTEU, Standard | Yes | No |
What is the throughput for short codes?
| Country | SMS Throughput |
|---|---|
| United States | 100 MPS |
| Canada | 10 MPS |
| Brazil | Varies |
| New Zealand | Varies |
How much do short codes cost?
| Country | Setup Fee | Monthly Rental | Procurement Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States (Random) | $1,500 | $500 | 6-8 weeks |
| United States (Vanity) | $1,500 | $1,000 | 6-8 weeks |
| Canada | $4,000 | $700 | 6-8 weeks |
| Brazil | $0 | $500 | 4 weeks |
| New Zealand | $156 | $156 | 3-4 weeks |
What is the difference between random and vanity short codes?
| Type | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Random | Assigned by CSCA | Lower monthly rental |
| Vanity | Custom number (e.g., 75486 = PLIVO) | Higher monthly rental |
What are the requirements for US short codes?
- Update Terms and Conditions page with carrier-required language
- Ensure web opt-in forms contain mandated verbiage
- Configure keyword responses (opt-in, opt-out, HELP)
- Submit application with usage details
Required Keywords
| Keyword | Purpose | Required Response |
|---|---|---|
| STOP | Opt-out | Confirmation of opt-out |
| HELP | Help | Program description and contact info |
| YES/JOIN | Opt-in | Confirmation of subscription |
What are the requirements for Canada short codes?
- Carriers must review use case and campaign details
- Shared short codes not supported
- Specific language requirements for Terms and Conditions
- Same application steps as US
What are the requirements for Brazil short codes?
- 5 digits, random only
- Messages are Free To End User (FTEU)
- Express consent required before sending
- 35 days notice required to give up a short code
- Unused short codes may be disconnected by regulators
Content Restrictions (Brazil)
| Allowed | Prohibited |
|---|---|
| Alerts, Marketing, Notifications | Adult content |
| OTP, Promotions, Special offers | Gambling/casinos |
| Political, Religious | Illegal products, Malware, Spam |
What are the requirements for New Zealand short codes?
Types
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Free To End User (FTEU) | All charges to short code owner |
| Standard | Recipient may be charged |
Messaging Requirements
For Standard short codes:- If expecting a reply: include “standard charges apply”
- If message contains URL: include “data charges apply”
- If no response needed: add “No Text Reply”
What triggers a short code audit?
Carriers in US and Canada conduct audits for:- Deviation from registered use cases
- Non-compliant traffic (prohibited content, missing opt-in)
- Using same short code for multiple brands (shared short code)
What qualifies as a shared short code?
When a short code registered for one purpose (e.g., account notifications) is used to send messages for another brand. This is prohibited by carriers.What are the US Short Code Registry updates?
Effective October 2024, the registry requires:| Entity | Required Information |
|---|---|
| CSC Registrants | Legal name, entity type, physical address, URL, FEIN |
| Content Providers | Point of contact (name, email, phone) |
| Brand Clients | Organization details and verification |
How do short codes renew?
- Short codes auto-renew by default
- To discontinue: contact Plivo support
- Decommissioned short codes cannot be reactivated
- Failure to notify results in continued rental charges
Can ISVs use short codes?
No. Plivo does not offer short codes for A2P messaging in US or Canada to ISV/Reseller customers. Alternatives:- Long codes or toll-free numbers for messaging
- Plivo Verify for short code-based OTP delivery