A2P 10DLC for contractors: how to text customers from a business number
Updated · 6 min read
The short answer
A2P 10DLC is the registration US mobile carriers require before a business sends text messages from a regular 10-digit phone number. A contractor registers its business (the "brand") and how it will text customers (the "campaign") through its texting provider, such as Twilio. Unregistered business texts can be filtered or blocked by carriers.
What A2P 10DLC means
"A2P" stands for application-to-person: messages sent by software on behalf of a business, like appointment reminders. "10DLC" means a standard 10-digit long code, the same kind of local number a person has.
US carriers created the A2P 10DLC system so they can tell legitimate business texting apart from spam. Businesses that text from local numbers through a provider are expected to register.
Why it matters for remodelers
Remodelers text constantly: appointment confirmations, "we're on our way", reminders to pick finishes, review requests. If your number isn't registered, carriers may filter or block those messages, and you may not notice until customers stop replying.
Registering also forces you to write down how customers agree to receive texts, which is the same thing you need for consent rules.
How registration works
Registration is done through your texting provider. The exact screens differ by provider, but the steps are similar:
- Brand registration: your legal business name, EIN, address, website and contact details. These must match your official records.
- Campaign registration: the kind of messages you'll send (for example, appointment reminders and customer care), sample messages, and how people opt in.
- Opt-in description: explain where customers agree to texts, such as a checkbox on your website form.
- Opt-out handling: messages must honor STOP replies.
- Review: carriers review the campaign. Approval times and fees vary and are set by the provider and carriers.
Common reasons registrations get rejected
Most rejections come from mismatches and vague descriptions. Before you submit, check:
- The business name and EIN match your IRS records exactly.
- Your website is live and shows the same business name.
- Your website form explains that customers agree to receive texts, with a link to your privacy policy.
- Sample messages include your business name and a way to opt out.
Consent is still your responsibility
Registration doesn't replace consent rules. Federal law (the Telephone Consumer Protection Act) and some state laws set rules for texting consumers. Record when and how each customer agreed, honor opt-outs right away, and avoid texting late at night. Ask your attorney what applies in your state.
How TradeBurst handles it
TradeBurst sends texts through your own Twilio account, so the registration and the number belong to your business. Website leads record texting consent, STOP replies are honored, and reminders only go out during allowed hours in your time zone. If you'd rather not deal with registration, our done-for-you setup includes it.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need A2P 10DLC to text from my cell phone?
Texting a customer yourself from your personal phone is person-to-person messaging. A2P 10DLC applies when software sends texts for your business from a regular local number, such as reminders from a CRM.
How long does A2P 10DLC approval take?
It varies with carrier review. Plan ahead, and make sure your business details and website match your official records to avoid resubmitting.
Is a toll-free number an alternative?
Toll-free numbers have their own verification process instead of 10DLC registration. Many local service businesses prefer a local number because customers recognize the area code.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules vary by state; check with your attorney or the relevant agency for your situation.