Mass SMS: what it is and how to send mass SMS to your customers

Mass SMS is the simultaneous sending of a large number of short text messages to a database of phone numbers that has been segmented and authorized beforehand.

These messages are usually promotional, informational or corporate in nature.

In other words, it is like a digital “megaphone” that sends the same information out to thousands of contacts in a matter of seconds.

Of course, its effectiveness doesn’t depend exclusively on quantity, but on the relevance and value these messages provide to their recipients.

Unlike other digital marketing channels, SMS doesn’t require the user to be connected to the internet.

This removes accessibility barriers, so the content lands in the recipient’s pocket almost instantly.

At the same time, its brief and direct nature ensures that the message is easy to read and understand, reducing the likelihood of being ignored.

What’s more, an SMS is usually read within a few minutes of being received.

If you’re looking for the full strategy, with message types, examples and legal requirements, find out what SMS marketing is.

How to send mass SMS step by step

With a platform, sending mass SMS takes just a few minutes:

1. Open an account with an SMS sending service and buy a credit package.
2. Import the numbers. Paste the list or use your contacts’ mobile numbers. Only send to people who have given you permission.
3. Choose the sender. Use your company name, 3 to 11 characters, with no spaces.
4. Write the message. Up to 160 characters, or 70 with emojis. Add a short link and how to unsubscribe.
5. Run a test. Send it to your own phone and check the text and the link.
6. Send or schedule. Pick a time when your audience is checking their phones, and review the deliveries afterwards.

How much does it cost to send mass SMS?

The price depends on the country and the number of messages. At Mailrelay, these are the packages for Spain (excluding VAT):

Credits expire after one year and there is no commitment. Keep in mind that a message longer than 160 characters is charged as several SMS. You’ll find all countries on our SMS pricing page.

What to look for in a mass SMS service

Before choosing a provider, compare these points:

Advantages of mass SMS

Mass SMS sending has a number of advantages that make it an extremely attractive tool for digital marketing:

Immediacy

Unlike emails, social networks or other channels, SMS is received almost instantly.

Users often check their mobile phones several times a day, so the message doesn’t go unnoticed.

High open and read rate

Most text messages are read within minutes, which increases the likelihood that the information will reach the recipient clearly.

This feature makes mass SMS a very effective channel for urgent communications, flash offers or event reminders that need to be viewed quickly.

Personalization and segmentation

Even if thousands of messages are sent, it is possible to segment the database, including personalized data such as the recipient’s name, location or preferences.

This gives a sense of closeness and relevance, increasing the chances of conversion.

Easy integration with other strategies

Mass SMS doesn’t work in a vacuum.

By integrating it with email marketing campaigns, social media or content marketing, the brand’s overall message is reinforced.

For example, SMS can be used to let users know a newsletter has arrived, to remind them of a coupon sent by email or of their participation in an online event.

Low cost

Sending mass text messages is cost-effective compared to other marketing actions.

This makes it an accessible tool for businesses with limited budgets, but it is also useful for large companies looking to amplify the reach of their campaigns with a more modest investment.

How to create an effective mass SMS strategy

Despite its undeniable advantages, it is not enough to simply send out thousands of messages and expect positive results.

For a mass SMS campaign to be successful, it is necessary to take into account some key points:

Database segmentation

Don’t send the same message to everyone.

Sort your contact list by interests, location, age or purchasing behavior.

The more specific and organized your database is, the easier it will be to create relevant messages that are also appealing.

A clear, short message

SMS has a natural character limitation, which forces you to be concise.

Make sure the content is easy to understand, direct, and has a clear call to action.

Include short links and use friendly language that connects with your audience.

The right timing

Knowing when to send your messages makes all the difference.

Avoid inconvenient times, such as the small hours of the morning or too late at night.

Also consider the habits of your audience.

For example, sending an offer at midday may work better if your audience works in offices and checks their phone during lunchtime.

A/B testing

Experiment with different versions of your message, subject line (if you’re using a platform that allows it), or call to action.

This way, you will be able to optimize your campaigns and improve your conversion rates.

Mass SMS within a multichannel strategy

Mass SMS is not an island within your marketing ecosystem.

Combining different tactics and channels makes your strategy stronger.

For example, email marketing works perfectly well alongside mass SMS sending.

While email can provide longer, more detailed and more visual information, SMS works as a short, direct reminder that drives action. Imagine sending a newsletter with your new offers and, a few hours later, a brief SMS reminding them about the limited-time promotion.

This two-pronged communication increases the likelihood that the message will sink in with users.

Also, mass SMS can work together with your campaigns on social media.

For example, you can include a direct link in the SMS to your Instagram profile, where you showcase a product in a video, or send users to a specific landing page.

This interaction multiplies the opportunities for the customer to know, understand and be interested in what you offer, increasing the possibility of generating sales or qualified leads.

Mass SMS use cases

The versatility of mass SMS means it can be applied in multiple business situations.

Some examples include:

Flash promotions and discounts

Launch irresistible offers that expire soon.

A short message such as “Last minute! 50% off today only. Click here” can make sales soar in just a few hours.

Appointment or event reminders

If your brand organizes seminars, workshops or webinars, SMS is perfect for reminding registrants of the event’s date and time. This improves attendance and reduces the no-show rate.

Shipping confirmations and order status

When shopping online, many customers appreciate receiving notifications confirming that their order has been processed or shipped.

An SMS about it builds trust and transparency.

Internal alerts for employees

It is not only for external marketing.

Mass SMS can also be used to notify the internal team about the launch of a new product, changes in the schedules or reminders of important meetings.

Growth strategies with mass SMS

To grow your contact list and improve the quality of your mass SMS campaigns, consider actions such as:

Offer incentives for subscribing

Offering discounts or access to exclusive content to those who join your SMS list is an effective tactic.

For example: “Sign up for our SMS alerts and get 10% off your first purchase.”

Promote the channel on your other platforms

Take advantage of the space on your social networks, blogs, newsletters and even your email signatures to invite your followers to join your SMS alert service.

Keep it relevant

It is not just about growing in quantity, but in quality.

If you send useful, interesting and valuable messages, people won’t unsubscribe, and they’ll recommend the service to others.

This satisfaction feeds positive word of mouth.

Mass SMS vs. Email Marketing

Although both channels are part of direct marketing, each has its own distinct function and advantages.

Email marketing, for example, allows you to go into more depth with your content, including images, graphics and multiple links.

It is ideal for newsletters, digital catalogs, detailed promotions, surveys or customer education.

Mass SMS, on the other hand, stands out for its speed, simplicity and immediate impact.

Email can go unopened for hours or days, while SMS is read in minutes.

It is not a matter of choosing between one or the other, but of integrating them in an intelligent manner.

For example, use email marketing to tell the whole story, provide downloadable content or offer a broader view of your services.

Then, take advantage of mass SMS to remind them of limited time offers, confirm registrations, send immediate alerts or let them know that there is something important in your latest mailing that they shouldn’t miss.

Mass SMS trends

SMS marketing is not static.

As technology and consumer preferences move forward, mass messaging techniques evolve too:

Automation and advanced personalization

Tools that allow companies to send the right message to the right person at the right time.

Based on purchase behavior, previous interaction with the brand or geographic location, SMS becomes smarter and more personalized.

Rich Communication Services (RCS)

An evolution of traditional SMS (RCS messaging) that lets you include interactive elements, buttons, images and rich content.

This brings the SMS experience closer to that of instant messaging apps, enhancing communication and user engagement.

Integration with chatbots and virtual assistants

In the future, mass messaging is likely to be complemented by chatbots that answer frequently asked questions or provide additional information, without the need for direct human interaction.

How to send mass SMS with Mailrelay

Mass SMS is still one of the most direct channels for sending alerts and selling. It works best when the message is useful, reaches people who asked for it and is combined with email.

With Mailrelay, you send your SMS from the same dashboard as your newsletters. You choose the sender, the editor warns you if the text is too long, and the statistics show you how many messages were delivered.

You can now try Mailrelay’s mass SMS service.

Frequently asked questions about mass SMS

These are the most common questions before your first send.

What is a mass SMS?

It means sending the same text message to many mobile numbers at once, usually for promotions, alerts or reminders.

How much does a mass SMS cost?

At Mailrelay, an SMS to Spain costs between €0.0345 and €0.0357 plus VAT, depending on the package size.

How many characters can an SMS have?

160 with the standard alphabet and 70 if you use emojis or special characters. If the text is longer, it is split into several SMS.