SMS Keyword Campaigns

SMS Keyword Campaigns
SMS Sending
Bulk SMS GatewayWeb SMS PlatformEmail to SMSSMS RepliesSMS APIs
SMS Receiving
Dedicated Short CodesKeyword CampaignsAU Long CodesHow to receive SMS

Keyword Campaigns

An SMS Keyword Campaign lets customers text a keyword to a shared short code. SMS4U uses the keyword at the start of the message to route each response to the correct business.

This is a lower-cost alternative to a dedicated short code. It suits campaigns where you need a keyword, inbound responses, and optional automated replies, but do not need exclusive use of the short code itself.

Basic operating rules:

  • Each business registers a unique keyword.
  • The keyword must appear at the beginning of the customer's SMS message.
  • Texts into the shared short code cost the mobile sender 20c including GST.
  • Received messages can be delivered by email, web dashboard, or webhook.
  • Automated replies are outbound SMS messages and are charged separately.
  • There is a one-off setup fee and a monthly keyword fee.

 

How It Works

The campaign structure is simple: advertise a keyword, receive inbound messages, and route each response based on the keyword.

Keyword-Based Routing

Each registered keyword belongs to one customer. Incoming messages are matched to the keyword and routed to the right account, even though the short code is shared.

Cost for Senders

Text messages sent to the shared short code cost the mobile sender 20c including GST. This charge is applied by the mobile operator.

Automated Replies

You can configure an automated reply for received messages. Automated replies are outbound SMS messages and are charged at the applicable SMS rate.

Fees

Shared short code campaigns have a one-time setup fee and a monthly fee for each registered keyword.

 

How We Deliver Received Messages

SMS4U can deliver received campaign messages in the format that best suits your workflow:

Via Email

Received SMS messages can be converted to email and sent to your nominated inbox.

Via Web Dashboard

Use the SMS4U dashboard to view, search, and download campaign responses.

Via Webhooks

Deliver received messages to your own systems by webhook, using JSON or XML where supported.

 

Examples of Keyword Campaigns

  • Text-to-Win:
    Customers text a keyword to enter a prize draw or promotion.
  • Scratch Codes:
    Participants text a keyword and unique code to enter a promotion or validate an entry.
  • Text for Info:
    Customers text a keyword to request a brochure, callback, or service details.
  • Text-to-Register:
    Customers register for an event, service, or offer by sending a keyword-based SMS.

 

Additional Benefits

Shared short code keyword campaigns let you run inbound SMS campaigns without the cost of your own dedicated code. They are useful when you need campaign responses, simple routing, and a clear keyword call-to-action.

Cost-Effective

Sharing a short code reduces the monthly cost compared with a dedicated short code.

Flexible Campaigns

Use keywords for promotions, registrations, requests for information, surveys, and simple inbound marketing campaigns.

Clear Response Handling

Responses are separated by keyword and can be delivered to your team or systems for follow-up.

 

Pricing:

  • Setup Cost: $200 one-off
  • Monthly Cost: $100 for the first month, then $60 per following month
  • Messaging Costs: Automated replies are charged at $0.10 per SMS part. There is no SMS4U account charge for received inbound messages.

 

Service Terms:

  • Month-by-month term, cancellation at any time
  • Texts into the short code cost the mobile sender 20c including GST
  • Automated replies are outbound SMS messages and are charged separately
  • Pricing is in New Zealand Dollars and excludes GST