Choosing the right SMS (and MMS) Sender ID for your region
Some features are only available on particular plans or as paid add-ons and you can check inclusions on our pricing page. If you have any other questions, contact support and we can review your plan and provide you with options, including to speak to one of our Customer Success team.
Your Sender ID is the name or number that appears on your recipient's device when they receive your SMS/ MMS messages. Choosing the right Sender ID is critical for brand recognition, reply handling, and ensuring your messages are delivered successfully, as telecom regulations vary heavily by country.
Types of Sender IDs
Before sending, it is important to understand the different types of Sender IDs available on the Sinch Engage platform:
| Sender ID Type | Best For | Description | Allows Replies? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alphanumeric (Alpha Tag) | Brand awareness, One-way alerts | Displays your brand name (e.g., "Sinch") instead of a phone number. Max 11 characters. | No |
| Dedicated Long Code (VMN) | Two-way conversations, Customer support | A standard 10-digit virtual mobile number dedicated entirely to your business. | Yes |
| 10DLC (US Only) | High-volume marketing in the US | "10-Digit Long Code." Requires specific business and campaign registration to send traffic to US handsets. | Yes |
| Toll-Free Numbers (TFN) | Customer care, US/Canada messaging | Numbers starting with 800, 888, etc. Must be verified before sending traffic. | Yes |
| Short Code | High-volume, time-sensitive alerts | A 5 or 6-digit number. Highly regulated but offers the best deliverability and throughput. | Yes |
| Shared Numbers Pool (Rotary) | Low volume, basic notifications, or getting started | Standard default service where messages are sent from a rotating pool of shared numbers. | Yes (time-limited) |
Regional requirements & setup guides
Because local telecom carriers enforce strict rules regarding what types of Sender IDs are allowed, you must configure your Sender ID based on the region you are sending to.
Select your destination region below for specific setup and registration articles:
| Destination Region | Key Considerations |
|---|---|
| North America (US & Canada) |
Strict registration requirements. Alphanumeric sender ID's are not supported. |
| APAC (Australia, NZ, Asia) |
Alphanumeric is widely used and has strict registration requirements. Short codes require dedicated applications. |
| EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa) | Alphanumeric is standard, but some countries require pre-registration of the brand name. |
Note: Ensure you also read our Global compliance overview article to ensure your messages meet local opt-out and consent rules.