Shared Short Codes
Shared SMS short codes with keyword routing- Bulk SMS Gateway
- Web SMS Platform
- Email to SMS
- SMS Replies
- SMS APIs
- Dedicated Short Codes
- Keyword Campaigns
- AU Long Codes
- How to receive SMS
What is a Shared Short Code?
A Shared Short Code is a short SMS number used by more than one SMS4U customer. Each customer registers a unique keyword, and SMS4U uses that keyword to route inbound messages to the correct campaign.
This is different from a Dedicated Short Code, where your organisation has exclusive use of the code. Shared short codes are usually better for smaller campaigns, short-term promotions, or lower-volume inbound SMS use cases.
How shared short codes work
Keyword Routing
Customers text a keyword to the shared short code. SMS4U matches the keyword and routes the message to the correct campaign or account.
Sender Cost
Texts into the shared short code cost the mobile sender 20c including GST. Campaign material should make this clear to customers.
Received Message Delivery
Inbound messages can be delivered by email, viewed in the SMS4U web dashboard, or sent to your own systems using webhooks.
Optional Replies
You can configure automated replies. Automated replies are outbound SMS messages and are charged at the applicable SMS rate.
When to use a shared short code
- Keyword campaigns: customers text a keyword to request information, enter a promotion, or register interest.
- Short-term campaigns: use a keyword for a limited promotion without setting up a dedicated short code.
- Lower-volume inbound SMS: receive and manage responses without exclusive use of a number.
- Simple routing: separate campaign responses by keyword and deliver them to the right inbox or system.
Shared short code or keyword campaign?
The shared short code is the SMS number. The keyword campaign is the way your campaign is routed on that number. In most cases, customers buy and manage this as an SMS Keyword Campaign.
Use the keyword campaign page for current setup, pricing, and service terms.