TFN vs Short Code for A2P Texting: What’s the Difference?

What is a TFN (Toll-Free Number)?

A TFN is a 10-digit toll-free phone number (e.g., 800 / 888 / 877) that can send and receive SMS as a business sender.

TFNs must be verified through the toll-free verification process. 

TFN is best for:

• Customer support or two-way texting

• Service alerts and transactional updates

• Low volume marketing campaigns

• Faster launch timelines than short codes

What is a Short Code?

A Short Code is a 5–6 digit number (e.g., 52001) designed specifically for high-volume business messaging.

Short codes are typically used for large-scale texting programs and are built to support fast sending speeds and high campaign volume.

Short Code is best for:

• High-volume marketing campaigns

• Large message bursts (big sends in a short time window)

• Enterprise or national texting programs

• Brands that want a recognizable, dedicated texting sender

Key Differences Between TFN and Short Code

1) Throughput (Message Sending Speed)

Throughput is measured in MPS (messages per second).

Short Code: 100 MPS
TFN: 25–30 MPS

✅ If you need the fastest sending speed, short codes typically offer the highest throughput.

2) Setup Time

• TFNs are usually faster to launch and easier to activate. (2-7 business days)

• Short Codes typically take longer due to a more detailed approval process. (Up to 90 days)

3) Cost

• Short Codes have a one time verification fee, and higher monthly costs.

• TFNs are typically more cost-effective for many businesses.

4) Deliverability & Carrier Trust

• Short Codes are widely considered one of the most trusted sender types for large-scale A2P messaging.

• TFNs can perform very well, but verification is important to reduce filtering and improve consistency.