When integrating SMS messaging into your Kajabi platform using Twilio, selecting the appropriate phone number type is crucial for effective communication and compliance. The two primary options for U.S. messaging are Toll-Free Numbers and A2P 10DLC (10-Digit Long Code) numbers. Each has distinct features, benefits, and considerations.
In this article:
- Understanding Phone Number Types For Your Needs
- Toll-Free (National) vs 10DLC (Local Area)
- (Local Number) A2P 10DLC Numbers
- What’s the Difference?
- Ready to Get Started?
Understanding Phone Number Types For Your Needs
- For a Quick and Flexible Setup: If you seek a straightforward process with the flexibility to handle various messaging needs, a Toll-Free Number is the way to go. The verification process is relatively quick to set up (usually 5 - 14 business days) and no upfront set up costs.
- For a Localized Approach: Some businesses wants to establish a local presence as an engagement strategy. An A2P 10DLC Number might be a good option. However this personalized approach comes with a lengthier registration process. It can takes around 1-3 weeks with some upfront set up costs.
Toll-Free (National) vs 10DLC (Local Area)
(National) Toll-Free Numbers
What it is:
A toll-free number is a classic business number that starts with something like 800, 888, or 877. You’ve likely seen these on commercials or big brand websites: “Call us at 1-800-GET-HELP.”
Plain-English Example:
Let’s say you’re a creator or coach with customers across the U.S. A toll-free number gives you a single, professional-looking number to send texts like:
- “Reminder: Your coaching session starts tomorrow at 3 PM.”
- “Congrats on finishing Week 1 of your course!”
Your number might be something like: 1-888-555-1234
What makes it great:
- It works nationally — your customers don’t see a strange or unfamiliar area code.
- It supports both texting and phone calls.
- It starts with a solid send speed (3 messages per second), and can scale if you grow.
- It feels like a central “brand number” for your whole business.
What you’ll need to do:
You’ll need to fill out a short verification form explaining what kind of messages you’ll send and how people opted in. It usually takes about 5–14 business days to get approved. After that, you’re good to go.
(Local Number) A2P 10DLC Numbers
What it is:
A2P 10DLC stands for Application-to-Person 10-Digit Long Code. That’s just a fancy way of saying a regular phone number with a local area code (like 415 or 646) that’s been approved for business texting.
Simple Example:
If you’re a personal trainer in Chicago and want your number to feel familiar and local, you might choose a 312 number — like (312) 555-6789 — so your texts look like they’re from someone nearby. This is especially helpful if your customers value a local connection or trust messages more if they’re from a local area code.
What makes it great:
- You get a number that feels local to your audience.
- It can support high message volumes if needed (with proper vetting).
- It’s good for real estate agents, local service providers, and franchises that serve specific regions.
What you’ll need to do:
This setup is more involved. You’ll need to:
- Register your business (called your “Brand”)
- Describe what kind of messages you’ll send (your “Campaign”)
- Get your campaign approved by mobile carriers
This process can take 3-5 weeks, though in many cases, it’s done in under 10 business days.
What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Toll-Free Number | 10DLC (Local Number) |
| Type of Number | 800 / 888 / 877 etc. | Local U.S. phone number |
| Verification Required? | Yes (simple form) | Yes (brand + campaign registration) |
| Setup Time | 5–14 business days | 3-5 weeks |
| Message Volume | Verified Toll-Free starts at 3 MPS and can scale higher with Twilio support. | A2P 10DLC throughput ranges from 1 to 75 MPS, depending on brand type, use case, and vetting score. |
| Best For | Coaches, course creators, small businesses | Medium-to-large businesses needing local feel |
| Carrier Filtering | Low (once verified) | Low (once fully registered) |
| Professional Appearance | National brand identity | Local business identity |
| Monthly Fees* | $2.15 per number | $1.15 per number |
| Setup Fees | None | Brand Registration Fees: $4 Campaign Registration Fees: $15 PLUS $1.50 to $10 monthly fee per campaign See details here |
*Twilio’s pricing can change from time to time. See here for the latest pricing from Twilio
For a comprehensive comparison and further details, refer to Twilio’s Number Comparison Guide.
Ready to Get Started?
Now that you understand the difference between Toll-Free and A2P 10DLC numbers, it’s time to pick the one that works best for your business.
- Want a quick, flexible setup with a national brand feel? Follow the Toll-Free SMS Setup Guide
- Prefer a local number with a personalised touch? Follow the A2P 10DLC Setup Guide
Choose the best number type for your goals, and follow the step-by-step guide to start sending messages through Twilio inside Kajabi.
If you need help deciding, Kajabi Support is always here for you.
And that's How To Choose the Right Phone Number for SMS Messaging in Kajabi (US Only)!
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