Content template registration is the final and most crucial step when sending bulk SMS messages to your contacts. It’s important to be careful while creating the template and ensure everything is covered, since the same template will be used for many future SMS campaigns. In this document, we’ll look at some best practices to follow when creating an SMS content template for DLT registration.
If you are sending only marketing SMS messages, make sure to use a promotional header. Choosing a different category, such as service (implicit or explicit) or transactional, while including promotional content in the template will lead to immediate rejection.
Using a relevant name is essential. Avoid generic names like “Template” or “Test,” as they may result in rejection. Instead, choose meaningful names such as “Promotions,” “Offers,” or anything that clearly reflects the purpose of the template and the message it contains.
Ensure your brand name is part of the content template. Recipients should be able to recognize and connect the message with your brand, not just the header or sender ID. Including your brand name helps build familiarity and allows users to associate your sender ID with your brand from the first message.
Avoid extra spaces or lines
Do not add unnecessary spaces within or after the content, or include empty lines at the end. This can be interpreted as an invalid or non-standard template. It’s best to avoid this completely.
Dynamic values such as amount, date, account number, OTP, customer name, and transaction ID must be replaced with variables in the template. You can add variables using the format {#var#}.
Avoid using too many variables in sequence, as this is discouraged by network operators and TRAI. Use variables only for fields that change due to personalization or for links.
Zoho Campaigns recommends using variables for merge tags and when adding shortened links. The maximum character limit for a single DLT variable is 30. If you need to include a shortened link in your SMS, use two variables ({#var#}{#var#}) to ensure the entire link fits within the template.
While it is possible to link multiple headers to a single content template, it is not recommended. If the message does not closely match the header or its category, the template may be rejected. Creating separate templates for each header also allows you to craft more relevant and targeted messages, helping customers better connect with your SMS campaigns.