The SMS Works The low cost SMS API for developers, pay only for delivered messages.

What is The SMS Works?

The SMS Works provides a robust and cost-effective SMS API gateway designed specifically for developers and businesses operating in the UK. Its platform emphasizes transparency and efficiency by charging users solely for messages that are successfully delivered to the recipient's handset, automatically refunding credits for any failed attempts. This approach, combined with competitive pricing, aims to eliminate wasted expenditure commonly associated with undelivered texts, potentially offering significant savings compared to traditional SMS providers.

Built for reliability and security, the service utilizes direct Tier 1 connections within the UK, ensuring messages are handled domestically without relying on less dependable grey routes. The platform is GDPR compliant, with all data centres and servers based in the UK. Developers benefit from comprehensive documentation, code snippets in various popular languages (including cURL, C#, Java, Node.js, PHP, Python, Ruby, and Go), and tools like AI message optimization, Unicode/emoji filtering, scheduling, batch sending, and detailed delivery reports to streamline integration and optimize SMS campaigns.

Features

Pay Only for Delivered Messages: Credits for failed or undelivered UK texts are automatically refunded.
AI Optimisation: Utilizes AI (Chat-GPT) to shorten messages that slightly exceed the standard character limit, potentially saving credits.
Developer Focused API: REST API with documentation and code snippets for various languages (cURL, C#, Java, Node.js, PHP, Python, Ruby, Go).
Detailed Delivery Reports: Provides comprehensive status reports for every message sent, including reasons for non-delivery.
Unicode Replacement & Emoji Filtering: Automatically replaces common Unicode characters with GSM equivalents and offers optional emoji filtering to prevent extra credit usage.
SMS Scheduling & Batch Sending: Allows users to schedule campaigns for future dates/times and send the same message to multiple recipients efficiently.
Dynamic Sender IDs: Enables sending messages with a custom originator name or number without pre-registration.
Two-Way Communication: Supports receiving replies via low-cost virtual mobile numbers or SMS shortcodes.
SMS Insights: Automated charts and tables providing actionable insights into SMS campaign performance and costs.
SMS OTP Platform: Dedicated service to generate, send, and verify SMS One-Time Passwords.
Global SMS Coverage: Connects to networks in over 200 countries for international messaging.

Use Cases

SMS Delivery Notifications: Inform customers about order shipment and delivery times.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Secure logins and transactions using SMS OTPs.
Appointment Reminders: Reduce no-shows by sending automated text reminders.
Job Opportunity Alerts: Notify candidates about relevant job openings.
SMS Customer Surveys: Gather customer feedback quickly via text messages.
Order Confirmations: Send immediate confirmation texts upon order placement.
SMS Customer Support: Handle customer queries and provide support via text.
Event Invitations & Promotions: Increase event attendance or promote offers via SMS.
Highlighting Important Emails: Use SMS to draw attention to critical email communications.
Automated Workflows: Integrate SMS sending into business processes using tools like Zapier.

FAQs

What happens if my SMS account runs out of credits?

The SMS Works offers low credit warnings via email, an optional pre-agreed SMS overdraft facility to prevent service interruption, and prompt support to add emergency credits if needed.
Can I send texts outside the UK?

Yes, The SMS Works supports sending texts internationally to over 200 countries. An international tariff list is available for specific costs.
Can I receive SMS replies to my texts?

Yes, you can receive replies using a low-cost reply number (virtual mobile number). Replies can be routed to a URL of your choice or forwarded to an email address.
What are the payment options for purchasing SMS credits?

SMS credits can be bought using credit/debit cards (Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express) or via bank transfer (BACS). Auto top-up is also available.
Do purchased SMS credits expire?

No, standard purchased SMS credits do not expire. Note: Free promotional credits may have an expiration date.