About SMS registration
SMS registration is a mandatory step before you can use Vello text messaging.
All businesses that send SMS messages to United States mobile numbers must complete SMS registration. The registration:
- Is a regulatory requirement from United States cellular carriers (for example, AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile)
- Prevents unwanted messages for clients (for example, spam and robocalls)
Note: From August 31, 2023, United States cellular carriers block SMS messages from businesses that do not complete SMS registration.
SMS registration is mandatory for all businesses that use 10-digit long code (10DLC) phone numbers to send text messages (for example, 123-456-7890). The text messages could include:
- Automatic reminder messages
- 2-way texts with your clients
As your text messaging provider and partner in client communications, IDEXX:
- Procures a 10-digit long-code phone number for you to use for text messages
- Supplies SMS registration information that you enter in Vello to the applicable cellular carrier for approval
Pays the SMS registration fees for you
Until SMS registration is completed, Vello shows a Registration Pending message in its screens. When registration is completed, Vello removes the message and you can send text messages from Vello. The maximum time for a cellular carrier to complete SMS registration is usually two weeks.
Note: While you wait for SMS registration to complete, Vello continues to send SMS messages for appointment reminders and medical service reminders.