FAQ's

What Is A Text Message?

Text messaging, TXT or texting is a common term for sending short text messages containing 160 characters (including letters, spaces and numbers) or less from mobile phones using the Short Message Service (SMS).

What Is A Short Code?

Taking cues from Asia and Europe, U.S. wireless carriers created the Common Short Code Administration as an entity to regulate access to the SMS channel and protect our mobile devices from SPAM and unsolicited marketing.

A ‘Short Code’ is a 5 or 6 digit abbreviated phone number that appears on the mobile device as the "From:". Short Codes identify content providers and each Short Code has to be independently provisioned by each wireless carrier to gain access to that network. Carriers conduct regular audits to ensure ongoing compliance.

Short Codes ensure that consumers remain in control of their experiences by providing a trusted method to ‘Opt-In’ and ‘Opt-Out’ of mobile programs - a requirement for both premium and standard rated programs. 

What Does It Mean To Opt-In?

Your customers Opt-In to your list by either filling out a web-based form or by sending a text message with  your Keyword to our Shortcode thereby giving you permission to send them text messages.

What Does It Mean To Opt-Out?

Your customers can Opt-Out of your list by replying to any text message you send them with the word STOP. From time to time you must include the following notice within your marketing messages: Opt-out:txt Keyword STOP to 90210. Help:txt HELP to 90210. Max 7msgs/wk.

Who Regulates Text Messaging?

In The United States, The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates text messaging.

ROAD RULES

  Consumers must ‘Opt-in’ to a Short Code program from their mobile device before they can be sent anything. Even an initial message that asks for permission is considered SPAM. 

  All programs must support the universal commands STOP, QUIT, END, CANCEL, UNSUBSCRIBE, STOP ALL, and HELP.

How Do Customers Opt-In To My List?

When you open a Mutual SMS Texting account you are assigned a Keyword of your choice as available. This Keyword is usually the name of your business and your customers can Opt-In by texting your Keyword to the Short Code 90210. For example, if your keyword were ABCD, all your customer needs to do is send ABCD to 90210. To Opt-out your customer can reply to any message you send with the word STOP or send a text to your Keyword STOP to 90210.

How Can I Promote My SMS Text Messaging Service To My Customers?

Your campaign message to consumers should be simple and can be added to the promotions you are already running! Simply add the text, 'Join ABCD's VIP Club To Find Out About Upcoming Events. Send the Word ABCD to 90210 Now!' Some popular examples of ways you can promote and build your Opt-in list can be found here.

What Cellular Carriers Do You Support?

Supported carriers: AT&T, Verizon Wireless, Sprint, Nextel, T-Mobile, Alltel, Virgin Mobile, Cellular One, US Cellular, Cellular South, Boost and others. Our access reaches 98% of all cell phones in the US.

How Do I Access My SMS Account?

SMS text messaging software is web-based.

Do I Need Any Special Software/Hardware? 
 
No, all you need is a computer with an internet connection.

How Quickly are Messages Received?

Is There A Limit To How Many Messages I Can Send?

There is no limit to how many messages you can send using our service but you'll experience much higher Opt-Out's from your list if you send more than one message per day to each of your subscribers.

How Much Does Your Service Cost?

Mutual SMS Texting is affordable and specific pricing for our services can be found here.

How Do I Sign-up for Your Service?

The proper explanation and implementation of our service requires a visit from one of our professional representatives at your business location. Please contact us here and we'll be happy to schedule an appointmment that will initially take approximately thirty minutes of your time. The ability to contact your customers at any time, anywhere is no longer a dream. By adding Short Message Service (SMS) to your marketing mix, the effectiveness of your message with new and existing customers will skyrocket.