Paytronix to migrate clients off of shared short codes beginning this November

Beginning this fall, Paytronix will be using a new SMS provider and eliminating the shared 73757 short code. Paytronix clients can expect to be migrated off the shared short code and onto the new SMS messaging method of their choosing beginning in November. Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about this shift.

Why is Paytronix eliminating the shared short code?

Paytronix is eliminating its shared short code in compliance with new telecom carrier rules that prohibit shared short codes. This change, which is affecting the entire messaging industry, has already begun at the carrier level. This means that soon, delivery rates for messages sent via shared short code will begin to fall as various carriers block messages sent via this channel. Already, all carriers have blocked the approval of new shared short codes.

This change will affect the number used for the following features: text to check-in, text to join, and campaign messaging.

What is the benefit of moving away from shared short codes?

A shared short code is a five- or six- digit number shared between businesses to save on costs and time-to-market. In order for this to work, businesses need unique keywords to separate traffic; but in some cases, multiple businesses would send end users messages from the same code for different purchases, often creating confusion and difficulties in managing opt-ins and opt-outs.

Plus, code violations by one business affect all businesses using the same short code. If one user violates content or messaging practices, the entire short code is shut down, negatively affecting the other compliant brands on the same short code.

 What alternatives are there to a shared short code? 

Moving forward, Paytronix clients will have three options to send SMS messages:

• A unique, randomly generated short code
• A unique, vanity short code
• A 10-digit-long code (or 10DLC for short)

For brands who would like to stick with a short code, there will be a choice between a random short code and a vanity short code. Both short code options incur a monthly fee, but the vanity code is slightly more expensive. Paytronix recommends short codes for brands with a campaign messaging list of 30,000 or more.

There is also a third option: the 10-digit-long code message. This is a new means of A2P (or business) messaging that uses local phone numbers to send and receive SMS messages. This option incurs no monthly fee and provides a local touch. Paytronix recommends this option for brands with a campaign messaging list of under 30,000.

How will my brand be affected by Paytronix changing vendors?

Paytronix’s change in SMS vendors should have little to no impact on Paytronix clients, with the exception of the elimination of the 73757 short code. The benefits of changing providers include faster sending, better support, and, in the future, MMS capabilities.

When can I expect these changes to impact my brand?

Clients who go live on the Paytronix platform after Oct. 4 will be assigned a unique short code or 10DLC.

Existing Paytronix clients can expect migration to a new short code or a 10DLC to begin in November. Clients will be contacted by a Solutions Consultant to begin the migration. The Solutions Consultants will suggest the next step – whether it’s a random short code, vanity short code, or 10DLC – based on the individual brand.

More questions?

 If your question was not answered above, reach out to your Solutions Consultant or contact Paytronix via your brand’s dedicated support email.