Sending long text messages can be tricky, especially with character limits on SMS. Whether you’re sending an important update, a detailed explanation, or a marketing message, you need to ensure your message reaches the recipient in full.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to send long text messages without interruptions, including SMS character limits, concatenated messages, and alternative messaging platforms.
Understanding SMS Character Limits
Before sending a long text message, it’s important to understand SMS character limits. Standard SMS messages are limited to 160 characters per message. If your message exceeds this limit, it will be broken into multiple parts.
How do SMS messages get split?
When a message is longer than 160 characters, it is split into segments. Each segment contains 153 characters (to account for linking metadata).
For example, a 300-character message will be sent in two parts:
First segment: 153 characters
Second segment: 147 characters
Modern smartphones automatically stitch these messages together, displaying them as a single conversation. However, some older devices or networks may deliver them as separate texts.
Best Ways to Send a Long Text Message
If you need to send a message longer than 160 characters, here are some effective ways to ensure your message is delivered smoothly.
1. Use concatenated SMS for seamless delivery
Concatenated SMS automatically links multiple SMS segments, ensuring that long messages appear as one continuous text. Most modern networks and messaging apps support this feature, preventing your text from being delivered as disjointed messages.
2. Convert SMS to MMS for longer texts
If you need to send a long message, MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) is an excellent alternative. MMS allows you to send up to 1,600 characters without breaking the message into multiple SMS segments.
Why use MMS for long messages?
Sends up to 10x more characters than SMS
Ensures messages are received as a single text
Allows inclusion of images, videos, and GIFs for a richer experience
Note: MMS may cost more than SMS, so check your mobile plan or SMS platform pricing before sending.
3. Use a business SMS platform
If you’re sending long messages for business or marketing purposes, using an SMS marketing platform can help. These platforms support long text messaging, automate delivery, and provide insights into message performance.
Benefits of an SMS marketing platform:
Seamless delivery of long messages
Message scheduling and automation
Analytics on message open rates and engagement
4. Send a link instead of a long text
Instead of sending a long message, you can shorten it and include a link to a webpage with more details. This method is great for customer service updates, newsletters, or promotional content.
Example:
Instead of sending:"Hello John, we have an exclusive sale with discounts on all products. Shop now before it ends!"
Send this instead:"John, don’t miss our biggest sale! Get exclusive discounts now: [yourwebsite.com/sale]"
Using a URL shortener like Bitly can make links more concise and professional.
5. Break your message into logical segments
If you must send a long SMS without using MMS or links, break the text into clear sections. Use line breaks or numbered points to improve readability.
Example:
❌ Poor Format:
"Hello, we wanted to inform you about our upcoming sale. It starts this Friday and lasts until Sunday. You’ll find discounts on all products. Make sure to visit our store and take advantage of these special deals before they’re gone. Happy shopping!"
✅ Better Format:
"Hello! Our BIG sale is happening this weekend! 🎉
Starts: Friday – Ends: Sunday
Discounts on all products
Visit us & save big!
See you there!"
Breaking up the message makes it easier to read while keeping customers engaged.
How Falkon SMS Helps You Send Long Text Messages
Seamless Long SMS Delivery: Falkon SMS automatically stitches long messages together so recipients receive them as a single, continuous message—no confusing message splits!
MMS Support for Extended Messages: Need to send more than 160 characters? Convert your SMS to MMS for a longer, uninterrupted message. Plus, MMS allows you to add images, videos, or GIFs to make your message more engaging.
Bulk Messaging Without Limits: With Falkon SMS, you can send bulk long messages without worrying about character restrictions. Whether you’re sending promotions, appointment reminders, or customer updates, Falkon SMS ensures smooth delivery.
Smart Message Formatting: Falkon SMS helps structure long messages properly, using spacing, bullet points, and clear formatting to enhance readability.
Detailed Analytics & Insights: Monitor message open rates, delivery status, and engagement metrics to optimize your long SMS campaigns for better performance.
Best Practices for Sending Long Text Messages
To ensure the best experience for your recipients, follow these SMS best practices:
Keep Messages Clear & Concise – Even when sending long messages, avoid unnecessary words. Get to the point quickly.
Use Personalization – Address recipients by name and tailor messages based on their preferences. Personalized messages improve engagement rates.
Ensure Proper Formatting – Use bullet points, emojis, and short paragraphs to improve readability.
Test Before Sending – Send a test message to yourself to check formatting and delivery. Explore this page to learn how to A/B test your text message campaigns properly.
Be Aware of Carrier Limitations – Some networks may still break long texts into separate messages. Consider using an MMS or an SMS platform for a seamless experience.
Conclusion
Long text messages don’t have to be a hassle. By understanding SMS character limits and using strategies like concatenated SMS, MMS, or links, you can send long messages effectively without getting cut off.
For businesses, an SMS marketing platform ensures smooth delivery and better engagement.
Need a reliable way to send long text messages? Use Falkon SMS for seamless, professional SMS communication! Schedule a meeting with us to get started.