How do long numbers, short codes, 10DLC, and toll-free numbers compare? We made this easy-to-follow table below to break it down further.
What is a Toll-Free Number (TFN)?
A Toll-Free Number (TFN) is a 10-digit number starting with 800, 888, 877, etc. It's designed for business-to-customer messaging and is the primary number type TxtCart uses.
TFNs are available for stores selling in the US and Canada only. If you're based in the UK or Australia, TxtCart provides a mobile number instead.
Note: TFNs can handle most of what 10DLC can. In the vast majority of cases, a TFN is all you need.
What is a 10DLC?
10DLC (10-Digit Long Code) is a standard 10-digit number registered through The Campaign Registry (TCR) for approved business messaging. It requires brand vetting and campaign approval before use.
TxtCart supports 10DLC where required, but most stores will not need it.
A 10DLC is worth considering over a TFN only if you're sending 200,000+ messages per day or need a local area code.
How to Purchase a 10DLC
To purchase a 10DLC, go to your TxtCart Settings by clicking Account Details > Account Settings > Messaging tab. Next to your US and Canada Toll-Free Numbers you will see an Upgrade button.
Clicking this button will walk you through the process of upgrading your number to a 10DLC.
Since only legally registered businesses can acquire a 10DLC, you will be asked to submit your business information during the submission process.
Once your 10DLC is approved, which may take several business days, it will automatically replace your US and Canada Toll-Free Numbers.
Once the submission is complete, you will be charged a $19 USD verification fee. Please note that this fee is non-refundable and is not contingent on your 10DLC being approved.
Submitting the 10DLC form may result in multiple verification charges. If you run into any issues during the submission process, please contact support instead of resubmitting the form.
What is a Short Code?
A Short Code is a 5 to 6-digit number built for very high-volume sending. It requires carrier approval and can take several weeks to provision.
Note: TxtCart does not currently support Short Codes.
Number Comparison
A side-by-side look at how each number type stacks up.
Feature | TFN | 10DLC | Short Code |
Throughput | 10 msg/sec | Up to 75 msg/sec | 10-500 msg/sec |
Provisioning Time | 1-2 business days | 3-5 business days | 3-6 weeks |
Requires Brand Vetting | No | Yes | Yes |
Requires Campaign Approval | Yes | Yes, via TCR | Yes |
MMS Support | Yes | Yes | Yes (US only) |
Available on TxtCart | Yes | On request | No |
Which Number Does TxtCart Give You?
Your number type depends on where your store operates:
US and Canada: You get a Toll-Free Number (TFN)
UK and AUS: You get a mobile number
Note: If your business specifically requires 10DLC, reach out to TxtCart support and we'll help you get set up.
Need Help? We're Here For You!
Our dedicated support team is always ready to assist you with any questions or concerns. Reach us through support@txtcart.ai or via live chat.