Text messaging is a powerful tool for engaging your audience, but sending bulk messages incorrectly can result in carrier filtering, message failures, or account penalties. This guide will help you stay compliant with carrier regulations and maximize your deliverability.


Why Carriers May Filter Messages

Mobile carriers actively monitor and filter SMS traffic that violates their messaging policies. Here are a few of the most common reasons messages get blocked:

  • 1. No Business Identification
    The recipient doesn’t know who the message is from. Every message must clearly identify your business.

  • 2. No Prior Opt-In
    The recipient did not explicitly consent to receive your messages. Sending unsolicited messages violates A2P 10DLC rules.

  • 3. Use of Untrusted Short Links
    URLs like bit.ly or other public URL shorteners are often flagged as suspicious.
    Chatavise’s branded short links are trusted by carriers.

SMS Campaign Best Practices

To reduce the chance of your messages being filtered—and to improve engagement—follow these best practices when sending campaigns through Chatavise:


1. Warm Up Your Campaigns

Avoid sending large message volumes all at once, especially with new phone numbers.
Start with smaller batches and gradually increase volume to build trust with carriers.


2. Identify Your Business in Every Message

Let recipients know who’s contacting them right away.
Example: “Hi, this is Amanda from Jones Plumbing…”


3. Get Explicit Opt-In

Only message people who have clearly agreed to receive messages from your business. Use lead forms, keywords, or double opt-in when appropriate.


4. Avoid Spammy Language

Avoid excessive use of caps, unnecessary punctuation, or misleading phrases like “FREE,” “ACT NOW,” or “100% guaranteed.”


5. Use Trusted URLs

If linking to content, use Chatavise’s built-in link shortener or your own domain. Avoid public URL shorteners like tinyurl, bit.ly, or goo.gl.


6. Segment and Target Wisely

Send messages only to contacts relevant to your offer or communication. Sending broadly may result in high opt-out rates and carrier filtering.


7. Allow Opt-Outs

Even if someone opted in previously, they must always have a clear and easy way to stop receiving messages.
All SMS campaigns sent through Chatavise automatically include compliant opt-out instructions.
Example: “Reply STOP to unsubscribe.”


Need Help?

If you're unsure whether your campaign is compliant or need assistance getting started, click the Help button in your Chatavise dashboard or search the Help Center for more resources. You can also reach out to our support team by submitting a ticket.