An SMS company typically provides the SMS gateway that could be employed by its subscribers to send SMS messages to. On the other hand, an SMS reseller is a person who buys SMS messages in bulk from wireless carriers so that every SMS features a low price. They’ll then sell these SMS messages at a higher cost to customers. Thus, this isn’t a portable network operator but a company entity that gives SMS messaging services. There are a number of factors to take into account whenever choosing an SMS service-provider.
Cost:
The expense of service is probably the main factor. Typically, providers of SMS messaging services may be divided in to two categories depending how clients are likely to pay sms activation. They’re credit based and SMS based. In the first case, customers buy a number of credits from the gateway provider. You are charged by how many SMS sent and the price is location dependent. In the 2nd case, bulk SMS message is purchased and the expense of sending them is exactly the same regardless of destination.
While calculating the price, it is important to find out if there are any hidden costs or fees. Some providers don’t specify almost all their fees in their pricing page. So, if an SMS service seems really cheap, you might find that you’re expected to pay additional fee in one form or the other.
Requirements:
It is important to find out whether the SMS gateway service-provider has any purchase requirements. For instance, some services may require you to buy the absolute minimum number of credits every month. If you are just beginning, it is way better to select a service provider would you have no minimum purchase requirement. If your company grows, you usually have the freedom to purchase more.
Shelf life:
In some cases, SMS gateway providers ensure it is mandatory for customers to make use of up the credit inside a stipulated time period. After the time, you cannot utilize the SMS messages anymore as these would have expired. Such restrictions may be too limiting in case of small companies and companies that have just started off.
Network coverage:
You have to choose a gate way service-provider who are able to deliver messages to your target destination. Network coverage is important and some providers offer a few free messages in order to test network coverage.
Network quality:
Some SMS service providers offer inexpensive services but their network quality is very poor. Sometimes, messages reach the destination after having a long delay. Such a company must certanly be avoided.
Payment options:
Most SMS service providers allow online payment. Some also accept other payment methods like PayPal. It is important to achieve the best information regarding payment options.
Account management:
Finally, your SMS company must give you a net based management system that enables you to check your usage easily, quickly and efficiently. The interface must certanly be easy too. It should also offer excellent customer support as and if you want it.