SMS Capabilities by Country on ClickSend
ClickSend offers flexible SMS messaging solutions worldwide, including one-way and two-way messaging options. However, the availability and requirements for each type of messaging depend on the country. Below is an overview of how these capabilities vary and the considerations involved.
One-Way vs. Two-Way SMS Messaging
One-way SMS: Messages sent to recipients without the ability for them to reply. This is the default option in several countries where two-way messaging is unavailable.
Two-way SMS: Allows recipients to reply to messages. Typically requires a dedicated (virtual) number from the recipient's country.
Role of Dedicated and Shared Numbers
Dedicated Numbers: Essential for two-way messaging in most countries. The dedicated number must belong to the recipient’s country to send and receive messages. For example, a UK dedicated number allows two-way communication exclusively with UK-based recipients.
Shared Numbers: Often utilized for one-way messaging or limited two-way interactions, depending on country-specific regulations. Guernsey, for instance, supports shared numbers but does not allow dedicated numbers for two-way messaging.
Country-Specific SMS Capabilities
Countries Supporting Two-Way SMS
For many European countries, ClickSend supports two-way SMS messaging. To enable this functionality:
Purchase a dedicated number for the target country (e.g., Germany, Netherlands, Belgium).
Use that number as the sender to receive replies.
Countries Only Supporting One-Way SMS
In some countries, like Serbia, ClickSend does not support two-way SMS messaging due to the unavailability of dedicated numbers for that region. Only one-way SMS communications are possible to Serbian recipients.
Special Cases: Guernsey
Guernsey allows for the use of alphanumeric sender IDs (alpha tags) or shared numbers but does not support dedicated numbers. Consequently, two-way SMS linked to a Guernsey number is not possible.
Summary
ClickSend supports SMS messaging across various countries with differing configurations for one-way and two-way messaging. The use of dedicated numbers is pivotal for two-way interactions, but their availability depends on the destination country. While many European nations enable two-way SMS, certain countries such as Serbia and Guernsey impose restrictions. Understanding these limitations is essential for setting up effective SMS communication strategies. Related Topics:
Setting Up Dedicated Numbers
Using Alphanumeric Sender IDs
Best Practices for International SMS Messaging