You can send Two-Way SMS in South Africa.
However, you can't send MMS messages.
Available Sender IDs
You can choose from a few Sender ID options when sending to South Africa.
Registration and fees may apply.
Not sure which one to choose?
See our Sender ID guide or contact support — we're happy to help.
Shared numbers
Shared numbers are free, ready to use, and don’t need registration. Messages will be sent from our pool of local Sender IDs, so the number might be different each time.
Shared numbers should only be used for one-way transactional messaging
Dedicated numbers
Send from a trusted, local number.
To purchase a dedicated number, please contact support.
Dedicated number registration usually takes 2-3 weeks.
The carrier overwrites the sender number with a local longcode before delivering the message.
If the recipient replies, the reply is routed back to your original dedicated longcode.
Your longcode cannot be contacted directly. You must first send a message to your recipient in for them to send a message to you.
Dedicated Short code
Send from a trusted, local short code.
To purchase a dedicated number, please contact support.
Short code registration usually takes 2-3 weeks.
The carrier overwrites the sender number with a local longcode before delivering the message.
If the recipient replies, the reply is routed back to your original dedicated longcode.
If you have a shortcode, people can send a message directly to your shortcode without having to reply to a message that you sent to them originally.
Rules and best practices
Time Restrictions
South Africa has a Do Not Disturb (DND) registry for marketing traffic.
Permitted sending times for marketing messages:
Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (GMT+2)
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Promotional/marketing messages are not allowed on Sundays or public holidays.
Opt-Out Requirements
All outbound marketing messages must include a clear opt-out or unsubscribe option.
Content guidelines
Before you start sending, carefully review our sending guidelines to understand the types of messages you can't send. Additionally, you must adhere to the specific local regulations outlined below:
No cryptocurrency
Gambling must adhere to local laws