In recent years, SMS has become one of the most powerful tools for businesses to engage customers, send notifications, and run marketing campaigns. But with the increase in messaging traffic comes a greater focus on security, spam prevention, and compliance. This is why 10DLC (10-Digit Long Code) registration has become so important.
If your business hasn’t registered its 10DLC number with the carriers, you could soon face a major issue: message blocking.
In this post, we’ll explain what it means when carriers block unregistered numbers and why it’s critical to ensure your number is properly registered.
Why Are Carriers Blocking Unregistered Numbers? #
Carriers such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile have implemented new rules for business messaging to crack down on spam and fraudulent messages. These rules require businesses using 10DLC numbers to register their numbers and messaging campaigns.
By registering, businesses identify themselves and explain the purpose of their messages. This allows carriers to better monitor and regulate the flow of messages, ensuring consumers are not overwhelmed by unsolicited or harmful SMS.
Unregistered numbers are seen as higher risk for sending spam or illegal content. To protect consumers and maintain trust in business messaging, carriers now have the option to block messages from any unregistered numbers.
What Does It Mean When a Carrier Blocks a Number? #
When a carrier blocks an unregistered 10DLC number, the result is simple: your messages won’t be delivered. This can have serious consequences for your business, as critical communication with your customers will be disrupted.
Here’s what happens when your number is blocked:
- Message Non-Delivery: Any SMS you send will fail to reach its destination. Customers won’t receive the alerts, notifications, or marketing messages you intended.
- Loss of Business Opportunities: If you rely on SMS for sales, promotions, or updates, blocking can lead to lost revenue, missed engagements, and dissatisfied customers.
- Service Disruptions: If you use SMS for critical communications—such as appointment reminders, delivery updates, or two-factor authentication—being blocked can harm your customer experience and your reputation.
Why You Need to Register for 10DLC Now #
If your number is not registered , you run the risk of having your outbound messages blocked by carriers. But 10DLC registration is not just about compliance—it’s also about making sure your business can:
- Maintain Message Deliverability: Registered numbers are prioritized by carriers, ensuring your messages reach customers without delays or issues.
- Avoid Penalties: Non-registered numbers might be subject to additional fees or penalties imposed by carriers.
- Protect Your Reputation: Registering shows that your business is legitimate and that you are sending responsible, opt-in messages to your customers.
How to Avoid Message Blocking #
The good news is that avoiding these issues is easy—register your 10DLC number as soon as possible. Registration typically involves:
- Providing basic business details like your name, tax ID, and industry.
- Explaining the purpose of your SMS campaigns (e.g., marketing, notifications, alerts).
- Submitting the information for carrier review and approval.
Your SMS provider can usually help guide you through the process or handle the registration on your behalf.
The Bottom Line #
Message blocking by carriers is a serious issue that can disrupt your business communications. If your 10DLC number is not registered, you risk being blocked from sending messages, which could impact your bottom line, customer relationships, and brand reputation.
To avoid these consequences, ensure that your 10DLC number is registered and compliant with carrier rules. If you need help with the registration process or have any questions, reach out to your SMS provider or contact us today.
