---
title: "Short Code vs. Long Code: SMS 411"
description: Short code and long code are two variations of SMS marketing that work for business. Read on for the most beneficial for your campaigns.
---

[Tools & Techniques to Increase Call Answer Rates and Sales for Contact Centers ](https://www.ytel.com/blog)

# [Short Code vs. Long Code: SMS 411](https://www.ytel.com/blog/short-code-long-code-sms-marketing)

 Written by [Brian Keep, Ytel](https://www.ytel.com/blog/author/brian-keep-ytel) | Jan 29, 2018 5:45:44 PM

There are ample amounts of opportunities for marketing through SMS, and one of these ways is through short or long code numbers.

There are ample amounts of opportunities for [marketing through SMS](http://ytel.com/blog/sms-marketing-branding-buzz), and one of these is through short or long code numbers. Short code and long code refer to the phone numbers used for SMS (text messages). 

**Check out the infographic for a high-level comparison between the two, and keep scrolling for a feature breakdown! **

**SHORT CODE**

- 5 or 6-digit numbers are primarily used for businesses sending and receiving marketing text messages
- Campaigns are pre-approved and monitored by carriers and regulated by the TCPA
  
  *Two variations:*

**LONG CODE**

- 10-digit number tied to area code
- Can be used for two-way SMS or voice
- No pre-approvals from carriers required 

**SHORT CODE MARKETING**

Short code is the powerhouse for [mass marketing SMS](http://ytel.com/blog/sms-marketing-best-practices). Because campaigns are specifically pre-approved for use after people opt-in, you can send a variety of marketing communications to your distribution lists.

- Mass messaging 
- Notifications like appointment or sale reminders
- Special offers and promotions

**LONG CODE MARKETING**

Long code is perfect for two-way communications using both SMS and voice. Instead of mass marketing messages, long code’s wheelhouse is person-to-person business communications that support marketing efforts

- Customer service chats
- Personalized communications and information gathering
- Scheduling ability and appointment reminders
- SMS-based surveys

**COST AND SETUP**

The cost of leasing or buying a dedicated short code is much more costly than getting a long code number for the same purpose. As mentioned previously, there are carrier approvals to get for short code, and that process just takes a bit of time. 

**Which one is right for you? **

That all depends on your [SMS campaign](http://ytel.com/blog/sms-marketing-branding-buzz) needs. Are you wanting to send your message to a [huge distribution list?](http://ytel.com/blog/sms-marketing-best-practices) **Short code is your answer.** Do you want to follow up an inbound call with a customer survey or find out more information from someone interacting with your brand? **Long code is the perfect route to take.**

[View full post](https://www.ytel.com/blog/short-code-long-code-sms-marketing)

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