Skip to main content

Integration Guide: n8n

This guide will walk you through the setup process and common use cases.

Updated over 3 weeks ago

n8n helps technical and non-technical users streamline and automate workflows. With the ClickSend integration, you can easily automate sending SMS, MMS, voice, fax, and direct mail, and even trigger actions based on inbound SMS.


Prerequisites

Before you begin:

  • Create an n8n account

  • Create a ClickSend account

    • New accounts come with free test credits

  • Locate your ClickSend API credentials


Authentication

To authenticate your ClickSend account in n8n:

  1. In your n8n workflow, add a ClickSend node.

  2. Select Create new credentials.

  3. Enter your ClickSend username and API key (not your password).

  4. Click Test Credentials — you should see a "Connection tested successfully" message.


Sending SMS with n8n

To send SMS messages from n8n:

  1. Add a ClickSend SMS node to your workflow.

  2. Provide the following fields:

    • To – Recipient’s number in international format (e.g., +61411111111)

    • Message – Your message content (max 1,224 characters)

    • Sender Number – Use a TFN, 10DLC, alpha tag, or a validated own number

    • (Optional) Custom String – Add a reference for reporting

    • (Optional) Schedule – Set a specific time to send your message


Sending MMS with n8n

To send MMS messages:

  1. Add a ClickSend MMS node to your workflow.

  2. Fill out these required fields:

    • To – Recipient’s international number

    • Message – Up to 1,500 characters

    • Image URL – A public .jpeg URL (one image only)

    • Subject – Required; up to 20 characters

    • Sender Name – Must be TFN, 10DLC, or shared number (alpha tags are not supported)


Troubleshooting

If things aren't working as expected:

  • Check credentials: Use your ClickSend username and API key.

  • Check account credit: [Top up here]

  • Phone number format: Use international format (e.g., +1, +44)

  • Required fields:

    • SMS: Recipient number + message

    • MMS: Recipient number + message + image URL + subject

  • Alpha tag issues?

    • Max 11 characters, no spaces

    • Check alpha tag support by country

    • Some countries may require global sending to be enabled (contact support)


FAQs

Can I send from an alpha tag?

Yes — make sure it's 11 characters max, no spaces. Not supported in all countries.

Can I receive inbound SMS using alpha tags?

No. Inbound is only supported on shared numbers, dedicated numbers, TFNs, and 10DLCs.

How do I set an alpha tag as sender?

Enter your business name (11 characters or fewer) in the Sender Number field.


Other ClickSend Features in n8n

In addition to SMS and MMS, ClickSend's n8n integration supports:

  • Send Fax

  • Send Voice

  • Send Postcard

  • Send Letter / Direct Mail

  • Inbound SMS Trigger

Trigger actions in n8n when an inbound SMS is received on your TFN or 10DLC.

Did this answer your question?