What is a Virtual Number?
A Virtual Number is a dedicated phone number that can be used for SMS or MMS messaging, and belongs to only one account (unlike the SMSGlobal shared pool numbers). Think of a virtual number as your own special unique code that customers and employees can get to know you by, that no one else can send from.
A dedicated SMS number is an essential component in 2-way SMS communication, providing you with the ability to connect directly with your customers, and have the confidence that their message will get back to you.
Why choose a Virtual Number?
A Virtual SMS phone number offers you a direct and personalized way of contacting your customers, with the added flexibility of using advanced features including keywords and message triggers to automate your SMS campaigns.
Buy a Virtual SMS number to send and receive SMS online from a memorable and recognizable number. Choose between a dedicated long code or short code number - depending on your business needs.
BrandingSetting up a Virtual Number allows you to use a consistent Sender ID for all messages sent. Advertise the dedicated mobile number either online or offline to grow your database with user-initiated engagement.
Automate the workflowSetup custom triggers and keywords to automate your SMS workflow. Combining your Virtual Number with dynamic and naturally flowing conversations delivers a personal and efficient customer experience.
Inbound ManagerAll of your incoming SMS can be managed using our web SMS platform, forwarded to an email address or pushed through an API. To do this, simply set your Virtual Number as the preferred Sender ID for your SMSGlobal account.
Campaigns & PromotionsUse your Virtual Number as a consistent Sender ID when broadcasting 2-way marketing campaigns to your customers. This will generate greater loyalty and engagement, while streamlining your opt-out process.
Intelligent triggers and keywordsScheduling appointments or confirming shift rosters can be performed automatically by programming your Virtual Number to respond intelligently to set keywords. This reduces management overheads and improves the experience received by your staff.
Integrate CRM platformsConnect your Virtual Number with your existing CRM or ERP solutions. Simply use this number as the Sender ID when sending from SMS compatible software, and SMSGlobal will route message replies back into your application.
Empower your business with a dedicated number.
Create a free account and claim your dedicated SMS number.
Reply
Virtual Numbers are associated with a single account giving you more flexibility than shared numbers.
They can be used in advertising and anyone with that number can send a message directly to it.
Virtual Numbers can also be used in combination with keywords to perform special functions that are not normally available using the SMSGlobal shared pool number.
Text in
Virtual Numbers are not limited to just receiving replies to SMS. Anyone can send an SMS directly to this number, and the message will display immediately in your account.
Virtual Numbers are available in short codes (e.g. 6333) or long codes (full-length mobile numbers e.g. 04X XXX XXX.)
Carrier support for different types of Dedicated Numbers varies by country.
Ten Digit Long Code (Coming Soon)
The 10DLC will let you communicate to a mass audience from a number local to their area.
A 10 Digit Long Code offers an alternative to using a short code or toll-free number.
They allow you to message from a local number your customers can recognize, trust, and call back.
Messages to a 10 digit long code will usually be treated as a standard SMS for the end-user, making them widely used in a number of different mobile messaging campaigns.
Short Code
Short codes are a premium Virtual Number service, often used in large scale or direct response adverts where speed and convenience are key. They are short in nature and much easier to remember than a typical 11-digit number.
Short number SMS codes are a great way to increase participation for call-to-actions featured on marketing materials and branded company collateral like brochures, ad-signs and banners.
- Premium service
- Stand out from your competition
- Short and memorable
- Perfect for direct response adverts
Benefits of using a Virtual Number
Virtual Numbers give your business identifiable branding for SMS communication.
Available in long or short code, you have access to all the same great features of our SMS service – but with a personalized touch.
Web PlatformView all of your messages in the one place within our online platform, MXT.
Sender ID's to brand your messageBuild brand recognition and trust through a consistent number.
Opt OutManage opt-in and opt-out campaigns anytime, anywhere.
Stored OnlineEverything is stored online and is easily accessible - without replies going to your own handset.
DatabaseBuild your database of customers faster and more easily with a Virtual Number.
Scheduling with a Virtual NumberEasily create keywords to use for staff rostering systems, competitions or surveys.
Virtual Numbers Frequently Asked Questions
Question not below? Feel free to contact us with any Virtual Number enquiries.
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What is a virtual number?
A virtual number is a unique number used by an account to send online SMS. SMSGlobal provides dedicated virtual numbers including toll-free numbers, short code and long code.
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How do I acquire a virtual number?
When you sign up with SMSGlobal, you will be given access to our virtual number store where you will be able to purchase and lease virtual numbers as you see fit.
In the United states, you have a choice between a Short Code, 10 DLC, or Toll-free number. There is a setup fee and a monthly subscription cost with those some of these numbers. Our pricing page has all the available options listed with additional features that come with each number.
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For how long can I use a virtual number?
All virtual numbers are available for as long as the account user is actively using it and has paid up to date (if applicable).
Send and receive SMS directly through your software.
Explore the full potential of programmable SMS by owning a Dedicated/Virtual number. A Dedicated/Virtual number will drastically increase the capabilities of programmable SMSs, allowing for all automated SMS campaigns to be sent from the same number.
This provides access to SMS features including notification logs, and Two Way SMS.
Programmable SMS - The Power of Automation
API integration is a simple approach used by millions of organisations daily, on a global scale. It is designed to help improve business efficiencies and communication workflow.
We make sending bulk SMS easy, by letting you connect your internal software or CRM directly into the SMSGlobal SMS gateway using one of our off-the-shelf APIs. Connecting via an API lets you send SMS messages as you would within our MXT platform, but from the comfort of your own software or enterprise level solution.
Following the successful delivery of your message, a receipt will be forwarded to you. From start to finish, this happens in a matter of seconds, saving you considerable time and resources in the process.
Secure a Dedicated Number for your business SMS communication channel
Claim a Dedicated Number today
Free API key with every account
All SMSGlobal accounts include a dynamic API Key system, allowing you to quickly and easily create and edit new user credentials to send via our suite of API's.
If your software is already mobile messaging compatible, simply retrieve your SMSGlobal API Key from inside your account and insert it into your software to start sending. If you're a developer looking to add SMS functionality to a new software or application you're working on, feel free to browse our API documentation and code samples.
Adding a Dedicated Number to your account drastically increases the functionality of your programmable SMS by allowing you to receive replies from your A2P messaging campaigns.
Applications of Automated SMS from a Dedicated Number
Reminders & AlertsTrigger reminder messages for payments, updates, events and more based on time, website activity or other actions.
Lead NurturingAutomate the customer journey with timely SMS messages, loyalty programs or SMS coupons. Customize this process depending on client interactions, spending or level of engagement.
One Time PasswordsGenerate unique codes to secure business and client data with a completely automated OTP process via SMS.
Promotions & CompetitionsSchedule and send custom promotions in advance based on holidays, sale periods or customer activity. Automatically manage competitions and receive entries with 2 way SMS.
Booking ConfirmationsDistribute automated confirmation messages upon receival of bookings or purchases. Fetch and insert order numbers, estimated delivery times or event details by using custom fields.
Customer feedback with 2-Way SMSEfficiently manage the customer feedback process with automated messages. Receive additional survey replies by using 2-Way SMS or generate other actions by implementing keyword responses.
Request a Virtual Number
Short codes aren't available in certain countries and regions. To find out about availability in your region and to purchase, please submit the form below and one of our team will be happy to assist you.