Bulk SMS Marketing Starter Guide — How to Create Bulk SMS Drip Campaign? [Infographic]

Bulk messaging, mass text messaging, or text blasts is a way for businesses to broadcast a message to multiple recipients simultaneously.

When you have a large group of users or customers opted-in to receive text messages, it becomes a tedious and time-consuming process to text them manually.

Using bulk messaging business tools, you can send mass text messages to all your subscribers simultaneously. Additionally, this would allow you to circumvent the crowded email inboxes of your subscribers and reach them through a channel that gets more engagement.

For instance, a report by Esendex states that 73% of people open & read each message they receive. The same report also states that 21% read text messages from recognized senders and only 6% never read messages.

Based on these findings, the average global open rate for SMS text messages stands at 94%. Also, according to eMarketer’s findings, SMS marketing helps generate 10 to 20-fold or more return on investment.

This proves that bulk SMS marketing is advantageous for your brand. Apart from that, let’s discuss other benefits of sending bulk SMS for marketing and promotional offers.

Bulk SMS marketing offers numerous advantages for businesses. It enables direct and instant communication with a large audience, boasts high open and response rates, and is cost-effective. Let’s explore some of the benefits:

1. The ubiquity of mobile phones: With the widespread use of mobile phones, which means you can reach a wide demographic through SMS marketing, increasing your reach and potential sales.

2. Engage with a large number of recipients at once: Bulk SMS allows you to reach a wide audience simultaneously, making it an efficient way to communicate with customers or prospects.

3. An Effective way to send promotional offers in bulk: You can easily send promotional deals, discounts, and special offers to a broad customer base at cost-effective rates, increasing your chances of driving sales.

4. Fast and reliable messaging: Business messaging tools deliver messages instantly, ensuring that your time-sensitive information reaches recipients promptly.

5. High delivery, open, and read rate: SMS messages tend to have high deliverability and are often opened and read within minutes of delivery, making them a reliable method for ensuring your message gets noticed.

6. Best CTR and response rate: SMS marketing often boasts the highest click-through rates (CTR) and response rates among all marketing channels, leading to more conversions.

7. Automation in bulk text messaging: SMS marketing automation tools like Textdrip make it easy to schedule and send mass text messages, allowing businesses to maintain consistent communication with their customers.

8. Personalize the conversation: Bulk SMS can be personalized, allowing you to address recipients by their name or tailor messages based on their preferences for enhanced engagement.

9. Highly cost-effective and better ROI: Bulk SMS is a cost-effective method to connect with customers, which offers high response rates that lead to a strong return on investment (ROI).

10. Versatile use cases of the SMS channel: SMS can be used for various purposes, from marketing and promotions to transactional alerts, appointment reminders, and more.

11. Direct line of communication: SMS provides a direct and unobtrusive way to connect with customers, as most people keep their mobile phones within arm's reach.

12. Easy set-up process: Setting up a Bulk SMS campaign is straightforward, allowing businesses to quickly get their message out to the audience.

SMS marketing is a powerful way for businesses to connect, nurture, and send promotional offers, reminders, and event invitations. Here are some must-know statistics that show the power of SMS marketing.

1. Around 7.33 billion (91% of the world population) own a phone that can receive text messages.

With approximately 91% of the global population owning a phone capable of receiving text messages, SMS marketing offers a vast and accessible reach. This makes it a valuable channel for businesses to connect with potential customers worldwide.

2. Mobile phone messaging app users worldwide are set to reach 3.51 billion people by 2025.

The projected growth to 3.51 billion smartphone messaging app users by 2025 highlights the increasing importance of SMS marketing. This underscores the need for businesses to consider these platforms for their outreach.

3. Data shows that text messages sent during holidays see higher CTR and conversion rates.

Text messages sent during holidays have been observed to yield higher click-through rates (CTR) and conversion rates. This indicates that leveraging special occasions can enhance the effectiveness of your SMS bulk campaigns.

4. 81% of US consumers are more comfortable opening an SMS from a business.

This statistic shows that 81% of US consumers are comfortable opening SMS messages from businesses. This reflects the trust and acceptance that SMS marketing enjoys among the American population, making it a reliable channel for engagement.

5. While getting exact ROI is difficult, brands can see 10 to 20-fold ROI from SMS.

While calculating the exact return on investment (ROI) for SMS marketing can be complicated, it is believed that brands can achieve a 10 to 20-fold ROI. This highlights the SMS channel’s efficiency in driving business growth, making it a worthwhile marketing investment for organizations.

Starting your Bulk SMS journey involves a series of steps to effectively use the SMS channel. Here’s the stepwise process that helps you seamlessly start your bulk marketing SMS journey:

Step 1: Collect customer opt-ins with their numbers

Begin by building a database of opted-in customers and obtain their explicit consent to receive SMS messages from you. This ensures compliance with regulations and fosters a receptive community of customers.

Step 2: Select a cost-effective bulk SMS service provider such as Textdrip

Choosing the right automated SMS texting service provider is important. Look for a provider that offers competitive pricing, reliable delivery, user-friendly interfaces, and the features you need for your campaigns.

Textdrip, for example, is a reputable option known for its features, cost-effective SMS marketing pricing, automation features, and high deliverability.

Step 3: Start creating your first bulk SMS campaign

Craft your mass text messages with clarity and purpose. Keep it concise, engaging, and relevant to your audience, and use personalization where possible to enhance the message's impact. Schedule your campaign for the most appropriate time to reach your target audience effectively.

Step 4: Test everything out before sending texts in bulk

Before sending your SMS to a large audience, conduct thorough tests to ensure everything works in order. This includes sending a sample text to yourself or a small group of your associates to check for any issues with the message's formatting, links, or content.

Step 5: Analyze the performance of your campaigns & optimize them further

After sending messages in bulk, analyze their performance using metrics like delivery rates, click-through rates, conversion rates, etc. Use this data to refine future campaigns.

Also, A/B testing can help determine what elements are most effective to continuously optimize your campaigns based on these insights to achieve better results.

Building and growing your subscribers is a major step in getting your bulk SMS campaigns running and getting better results. Here are a few ways to build and grow your subscribers:

Create an SMS signup landing page

Design a dedicated web page using Textdrip’s Page Builder to collect opt-ins and subscriber information. This landing page includes a straightforward signup form and serves as a focused entry point for potential subscribers to opt-in to receive text messages from you.

Integrate the page on your website

Integrate the signup landing page for visitors to access it from your homepage or other relevant pages. This integration provides visitors with a convenient way to discover and engage with your SMS subscription option.

Promote SMS signup through email

You can also leverage your email marketing campaigns to promote SMS signups. Include clear calls-to-action in your emails, encouraging subscribers to join your SMS list for exclusive content, offers, or updates. Cross-promotion between email and SMS can effectively boost your SMS subscription numbers.

Leverage social media for SMS signup

Use your social media platforms to promote SMS subscriptions. Share engaging posts about the benefits of joining your SMS list and provide a signup link. Engage with your followers and encourage them to sign up for exclusive content or promotions.

Display the signup form on the checkout page

During the checkout process on your website, present customers with the option to subscribe to SMS updates. Many customers appreciate this convenience and may opt-in to stay informed about future offers or product updates.

Offer signup incentive or discount

Motivate potential subscribers by offering them an incentive, such as a discount or a special offer upon signing up for SMS alerts. This can be a powerful way to encourage signups and create an immediate sense of value for subscribers.

Creating your first bulk SMS campaign involves selecting a platform that aids in achieving your goals, crafting a concise, engaging message, selecting a target audience, and scheduling the campaign for optimal delivery. Here’s how you can set up your first bulk SMS campaign:

Import your opted-in contacts

Start by importing your opted-in contacts into your chosen SMS marketing platform like Textdrip. Ensure that your list is compliant with regulations, and always obtain explicit consent from contacts to receive messages.

Create a new bulk SMS campaign

Within your Textdrip SMS account, navigate to the Drip Campaign module to initiate a new SMS campaign. This is where you'll manage and automate the sequence of messages. Drip Campaign allows you to create a series of text messages that are sent automatically at their defined interval to your subscribers simultaneously.

Assign contacts to a desired campaign while importing

While importing subscribers, segment your audience and assign them to specific campaigns based on their preferences or demographics. You can import up to 5000 subscribers at once by selecting a CSV file.

You can also segment your subscribers by creating multiple CSV files and assigning them to different campaigns during import. This allows for sending targeted and relevant messaging with appropriate personalization.

Determine the frequency between two successive messages

Determine the interval between successive messages scheduled in your drip campaign. It's essential to strike a balance between staying engaged and not overwhelming your audience. Tailor the frequency to your audience's preferences and the nature of your campaign.

Test and ensure everything works in order

Before sending the first message of your bulk SMS campaign, thoroughly test the functionalities. Send a test SMS to yourself or a small group of your associates to check for issues. Ensure that all elements work seamlessly and plan the next step of the campaign.

Provide value in your first text message

First message is going to be crucial. You want to get out of the “Hello” zone and deliver value to your recipients, whether it's exclusive content, discount, or information. Make it clear within your message what benefits they can avail of if they remain subscribed.

A/B different tones, content, and CTAs

Throughout your campaign, experiment with different messaging tones, content styles, and calls to action (CTAs). Incorporate a sense of urgency when appropriate to drive action and analyze the performance metrics to adapt to an approach that best resonates with your audience.

Make your bulk SMS marketing campaign live

Once you're satisfied with the setup, it’s time to launch your bulk SMS campaign. Monitor its performance closely, track key SMS marketing metrics such as delivery rate, response rate, and click-through rate, and be prepared to adjust your strategy based on the outcome.

In the world of mass text messaging, success hinges on effective strategies and best practices. Here are key tips to help you achieve your goals:

1. Ensure you send texts to opted-in contacts: It's vital to obtain explicit consent from individuals before sending them text messages. Only send messages to those who have willingly subscribed to your messaging list to maintain compliance and respect recipient preferences.

2. Keep your SMS short and to the point: SMS is inherently concise so write your messages in a clear and straightforward manner, focusing on the most important information. Short, easy-to-read messages are more likely to attract and engage recipients.

3. Time the delivery of your text messages: Send your SMS messages at times when your audience is most likely to be available and receptive. You want to avoid late nights or early mornings to send text messages.

4. Personalize the message & provide value: Address recipients by their name and offer content that is relevant and beneficial to them. Adding personalization and value to your message can enhance engagement and loyalty.

5. Insert a compelling CTA at the end: Every SMS should conclude with a strong Call to Action (CTA) that directs recipients on the desired action, whether it's making a purchase, visiting a website, or participating in a survey.

6. Don’t go overboard with sending too many messages: Avoid overwhelming your subscribers by sending messages too frequently. Striking the right balance is crucial to prevent opt-outs and maintain engagement.

7. Provide a clear way to opt out of receiving texts: Make it easy for recipients to unsubscribe from your SMS list. Including an opt-out option not only ensures compliance but also demonstrates respect for their preferences.

8. Keep compliance for text messages in mind: Stay informed about SMS marketing regulations and ensure that your campaigns adhere to the law. Compliance not only protects your brand but also maintains a positive relationship with your audience.

9. Send the right message at the right time: Tailor your messages to specific events, seasons, or customer preferences. Sending relevant messages at opportune times increases the likelihood of engagement and conversions.

The cost of bulk SMS marketing varies depending on the chosen bulk SMS automation tool and its pricing structure. The expenses can be influenced by factors such as the number of messages sent, the features offered by the tool, and any additional services. Here’s how much it can cost:

• Bulk texting can cost around $0.02 to $0.055 per SMS

There are two types of bulk SMS marketing tools in the market: subscription-based vs pay-as-you-go where one charges a monthly subscription fee and other charges per SMS-based fee. The cost can range from $0.01 to $0.055 per message, depending on the tool and the specific plan you choose.

• Most tools have high pricing & offer a fixed quota of messages

Many bulk messaging tools offer subscription-based pricing with a fixed monthly quota of messages. Also, tools with pay-as-you-go have a high per SMS charge, leading to high costs for your bulk SMS campaigns.

• Textdrip works on hybrid SMS marketing pricing

Textdrip, on the other hand, has a hybrid pricing model, combining pay-as-you-go with a small monthly subscription fee of $34.99. This flexible approach can suit businesses with varying SMS marketing needs.

• It can cost less than $0.01 per SMS with Textdrip

Textdrip offers cost savings for businesses purchasing SMS credits in bulk, with a 20% discount on credit gift card purchases of more than $100. This reduces the per SMS charge from $0.012 to $0.0096.

• Sending 50,000 SMS in bulk from Textdrip can cost around $480

Since Textdrip is the most cost-effective SMS marketing tool out there, you can save 2 to 4 times your expenses on SMS marketing. If you plan to send 50,000 text messages in bulk using Textdrip, it would only cost you $480.

• The same with other tools can cost you from $900 to $1250 or more

In contrast, sending the same amount of messages with other tools can cost from $900 to $1250 or even higher. This variation highlights the importance of selecting the right tool and pricing structure that best suits your budget and requirements.

1. Real Estate

SMS marketing for real estate professionals helps streamline their client communications. Property dealers and agents can send listings to potential buyers and communicate the available properties, book appointments, send reminders, and do much more.

Brokers can use SMS automation to manage their listings and engage with leads effectively. Promotional messages can also be sent in bulk to a broader audience to attract potential clients. You can leverage real estate SMS automation solutions for residential, commercial, brokerage, and promotional needs.

2. Insurance

SMS marketing for Insurance agencies can help nurture their leads and customers with automation. You can send timely policy renewal reminders and claim updates, and provide customer support via text.

This approach not only enhances customer satisfaction but also increases the likelihood of policy renewals and referrals. Nurture your insurance leads through our SMS automation platform or provide customer support & do more.

3. Solar

SMS for Solar & renewable companies help run automated SMS campaigns to promote their products and services. You can use it to send updates on solar panel installations, special offers, and incentives to potential customers.

With effective SMS marketing, you can compel leads to take action, resulting in increased solar installations. Automate your solar product promotions, run campaigns and compel leads to take action with SMS marketing.

4. Automotive/Car Dealerships

SMS for automotive and car dealerships help send promotional text messages for new vehicle arrivals, service specials, and event reminders. With SMS automation, you can reach out to your customer base and keep them engaged with your dealership.

Also, send appointment reminders for service and maintenance, ensuring customers don't miss important dates. Run automated promotional campaigns for your automobile and car dealership or send event reminders.

5. Non-profit Organizations

SMS marketing for non-profit organizations is a way to send bulk SMS to raise awareness and increase funding opportunities. Send SMS updates about ongoing projects, donation requests, and event invitations.

Engaging with a larger audience through SMS can help your organization make a more significant impact and raise the necessary funds for your cause. Use our bulk texting service to reach more people & increase funding opportunities for your non-profit organization.

6. Hotel & Hospitality

SMS for hotels and hospitality businesses can help promote their services, send alerts or reminders, automate booking confirmations, and even gather feedback from guests.

Text notifications are a convenient and efficient way to communicate with guests throughout their stay, enhancing their experience. With SMS, you can promote your hotel and hospitality services, send alerts or reminders, automate bookings, and do much more.

7. Travel & Tourism

SMS marketing for travel and tourism businesses is an ideal way to send time-sensitive deals and promotions. You can use it to inform customers about last-minute discounts, new tour packages, or travel tips.

Also, automation ensures that you can quickly respond to customer inquiries and increase bookings. Use our SMS marketing solution to send time-sensitive deals & automate your travel and tourism promotions.

8. Media & Advertising

SMS for digital marketing and advertising agencies help stay in touch with their clients and offer exclusive deals. You can use it to send updates on new marketing strategies and promotional offers and drive traffic to their clients' businesses.

Bulk SMS can also be used to grow their own agency by reaching out to potential clients. Overall, digital marketing, advertising, and media agencies can use SMS to offer deals, drive traffic, and grow their business.

9. ECommerce & Retail

SMS for eCommerce and retail can be utilized by integrating Textdrip through API or Zapier to automate notifications, send out promotions, and manage inventory updates.

This ensures customers are informed about new products, discounts, and order status, leading to increased sales and customer satisfaction. ECommerce/retail businesses can use API or Zapier integration to automate notifications, promotions, and other aspects.

10. Restaurant & Bars

SMS for restaurants and bars can help streamline their promotions and use it to communicate at scale with customers. You can use it to send daily specials, happy hour deals, and event announcements.

This direct communication method can boost customer engagement and foot traffic. Use our text marketing service to streamline your restaurant and bar promotions and communicate at scale with your users.

11. Recreational Service Providers

SMS for recreational service providers such as beauty/hair salons, movie theaters, and others can help reach their customers cost-effectively. You can use it to send appointment reminders, special promotions, and updates about new services.

Engaging with customers via SMS can help maintain a loyal client base. Our automated texting solution helps beauty/hair salons, movie theaters, and other recreation service providers reach their users cost-effectively.

12. Healthcare

SMS for healthcare facilities helps send text alerts to patients, appointment reminders, prescription refill notifications, and health tips. SMS automation ensures better patient engagement and adherence to healthcare plans, ultimately improving patient care and satisfaction.

Additionally, healthcare facilities can use SMS to introduce new healthcare services to their patient base. Overall, healthcare facilities can use text marketing for patient communication, send doctor appointments, and offer new healthcare services.

Bulk SMS marketing is just one aspect of your SMS marketing, which we’ll explore more in the coming detailed guides and blogs. However, this detailed infographic guide explains everything that you need to know to start your bulk marketing journey with SMS.

We explained the benefits, how to do bulk SMS marketing, tips & best practices, and how much it can cost you to run bulk SMS campaigns. We hope this should be enough to lead you on the path to SMS marketing.

And if you do want to start, Textdrip is the most cost-effective SMS marketing automation tool to help you seamlessly send mass text messages. Book a demo with us or start free now to experience the magic of Textdrip yourself with a Upto 30 Days risk-free trial and get Upto 2500 complimentary credits.