International text message can be extremely effective for your business goals. However, you must consider a few things before starting.
By gathering the correct information, you’ll be well on your way to sending SMS messages abroad. So, let’s discuss how it works, along with some optimization tips!
What Is an International Text Message?
An international text message is sent from one mobile phone to another in different countries. It’s similar to sending a regular text message but involves crossing international borders.
To text message international numbers (individual or bulk messages), you usually have to include the country code. This has a + symbol before the recipient’s phone number.
Due to this cross-border communication, your message has to go through multiple carriers before it reaches the recipient. Therefore, it might incur greater costs than a regular text you send to your friend in the same country.
International texting works best when networks are compatible and carriers have agreements in place, ensuring smooth communication with active users.
Sometimes, delays or issues can happen due to routing. But for the most part, it’s a reliable way to communicate across borders.
Can You Text Message Internationally?
Yes, you can send text messages internationally. As mentioned, you just have to add the country code before the recipient’s phone number.
However, the answer to “Can you send text message internationally?”‘ also depends on your mobile carrier. Most companies offer international texting, though there might be additional fees depending on your plan.
Some carriers allow you to add regular international messages to your plan, while others let you pay per message.
For example, Verizon charges $0.25 for each international message you send. But remember, this is just one carrier. The exact amount you’ll need to pay might vary according to your needs.
Alternatively, you can use a popular messaging app like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger to send complimentary International messages. Instead of using a mobile carrier, you’ll need an Internet connection.
However, this won’t be a good idea if you’re sending international business texts. Your customers might not have Internet access when you send them the message. If they see it later, they might not be as willing to engage with it.
So, investing in an SMS marketing service or a customer relationship management (CRM) system would work better here.
You can also send free international texts from one iPhone to another through iMessage. Again, you’ll need an Internet connection, so it won’t cost anything.
How To Send an International Text Message as a Business
To send an international text message as a business, start by choosing a text message marketing service. After all, you need to keep your customers engaged. This won’t be possible without matching your SMS content to the customer journey stage.
International texting services provide you with features like automation, scheduling, and personalization to help you achieve this.
Next, create a contact list and add international contacts to it. Keep a list of country codes handy to help you add the correct number.
Lastly, you must determine country-specific requirements before sending the text message.
Requirements for Sending International Text Messages
By now, you must know that international texting has specific compliance requirements and rules. You could face legal issues if you don’t follow these rules, especially for business texts. Or your message never reaches its destination after getting blocked.
Complying with SMS guidelines is the best way to avoid this. For example, in the U.S., you need to follow the CAN-SPAM Act. It requires you to avoid objectionable or misleading content, give customers a way to opt out, and be recognizable.
On the other hand, you need to comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe. Under this, you must ensure your messages are secure and don’t harm your customer’s privacy.
Additionally, many countries, including Canada and Australia, require you to consider time zones and gain customer consent before texting them.
4 Tips To Keep in Mind Before Sending International Messages
Now that you understand international texting and its requirements, let’s discuss four tips for optimizing your messages:
- Keep things simple: When sending an SMS, you only have 160 characters to convey your point. Keeping things simple is the best way to stay within this limit. Besides, a text is meant to be short and simple.
- Consider cultural differences: It doesn’t make sense to use American English when sending a text to someone in the UK. So, write your message in a way that resonates with your recipient.
- Be patient: International messages might take longer to reach your recipient. Therefore, be patient.
- Be recognizable: Your recipients might ignore your message if they don’t recognize you right away. So, choose a unique international text message number to appear trustworthy and recognizable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Global Text Messaging
By now, you must have a good idea of how international texting works. Let’s add a bit more value by answering some frequently asked questions.
How can I send an international text message?
You can send an international text message using your mobile carrier, SMS marketing service, or the iMessage app. You can also use a customer relationship management system to send business texts.
All these methods usually require you to enter the recipient’s country code and phone number. Remember to add the + symbol at the beginning.
What is international text messaging?
International text messaging simply sends a regular text message to someone in another country.
Different mobile networks route the message, sometimes resulting in extra fees depending on your carrier. Overall, it’s the same as texting locally but crosses borders.
Does it cost money to receive international texts?
No, it does not cost money to receive international texts. Most mobile carriers do not charge for receiving SMS, whether it’s from a local or international number.
However, additional charges for receiving messages may apply if you’re roaming abroad.
Use Global Texting To Reach a Wider Audience
Since billions of people prefer SMS, sending an international text message will work in your favor.
However, you need to consider some things, including costs, time zones, and cultural differences. So, use the information in this article as a guide and start texting international customers.
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