Opt-In Consent

All SMS marketing campaigns must begin with explicit opt-in consent from the recipient. This consent should be documented and verifiable to ensure compliance with TCR, TCPA, and CTIA guidelines.

Examples:
Users opt in by texting a specific keyword (e.g., "JOIN" or "SUBSCRIBE") to a short code.
Users provide their phone numbers through an online form or in-person registration with clear acknowledgment of SMS communications.

Promotional Messages

Sending SMS messages that promote products, services, or offers is allowed, provided the recipients have opted in. These messages must:
Clearly identify the sender.
Include a way for recipients to opt-out (e.g., replying "STOP").

Examples:
"Get 20% off your next order with code SAVE20. Reply STOP to opt out."
"Limited-time offer! Free shipping on all orders today. Visit [Website]. Reply STOP to unsubscribe."

Transactional Messages

SMS marketing can include transactional messages related to a user’s engagement with your business. These messages are typically non-promotional but provide necessary updates or confirmations.

Examples:
Order confirmations: "Thank you for your purchase! Your order #12345 will be delivered by [Date]."
Appointment reminders: "Reminder: Your appointment is scheduled for [Date & Time]. Reply YES to confirm, STOP to cancel."
Delivery notifications: "Your package is out for delivery. Track your order here: [Link]."

Customer Loyalty Programs

Businesses can use SMS marketing to engage customers through loyalty programs, offering rewards or personalized offers based on past purchases or engagement. Consent and opt-out mechanisms must still be respected.

Examples:
"Thanks for being a loyal customer! Enjoy $10 off your next purchase with code LOYAL10. Reply STOP to unsubscribe."
"You’ve earned 50 points! Redeem your rewards here: [Link]. Reply STOP to opt out."

Event Notifications & Invitations

SMS can be used to notify recipients about upcoming events, webinars, or other business-related gatherings. All event notifications must comply with opt-in rules and provide an opt-out option.

Examples:
"Join us for an exclusive webinar on digital marketing strategies. Click here to register: [Link]. Reply STOP to opt out."
"You're invited to our grand opening on [Date]. Enjoy a free gift with your visit. Reply STOP to unsubscribe."

Surveys and Feedback Requests

Post-service surveys or feedback requests are acceptable if the recipient has previously engaged with your business. These messages should be short and to the point, offering a way for users to provide feedback while maintaining their ability to opt out.

Examples:
"We’d love to hear your feedback! Click here to rate your recent experience: [Link]. Reply STOP to opt out."
"Help us improve! Take our short survey for a chance to win $50: [Link]. Reply STOP to unsubscribe."

Service and Account Notifications

Service updates or account notifications can be sent through SMS, such as password resets, security alerts, or system maintenance notices.

Examples:
"Your password was successfully updated. If this wasn’t you, contact support immediately."
"Alert: Unusual login detected on your account. If this wasn’t you, click here to secure your account: [Link]."

Compliance with Opt-Out Requirements

Every marketing message must include an opt-out mechanism (e.g., “Reply STOP to opt out”). Once a user opts out, the business must cease all further marketing communications immediately. Failure to do so is a violation of TCR and U.S. regulations.

Opt-out Example:
"Don’t want to receive messages? Reply STOP to unsubscribe."

Use of Long Codes, Short Codes, and Toll-Free Numbers

All campaigns should use approved short codes, long codes, or toll-free numbers for sending SMS messages. These numbers must be registered with The Campaign Registry to ensure they comply with U.S. carrier rules.

Example:
"Messages sent from 12345 (short code) are fully compliant with TCR registration."

Prohibited Use Cases

Certain use cases are not acceptable under TCR, including but not limited to:
Unsolicited messages (without opt-in consent).
Deceptive or misleading content.
Fraudulent or scam-related messages.
Adult content or messages promoting illegal activities.
Conclusion
SMS marketing under TCR requires transparency, user consent, and strict adherence to privacy guidelines. By following these acceptable use cases, businesses can ensure compliance and build trust with their audience while engaging in effective SMS marketing.