# TXT Message Guidelines

Before sending TXT messages through UbiQuity, it is important to understand the legal requirements that apply. TXT messaging in New Zealand is regulated under the Unsolicited Electronic Messages Act 2007. This page summarises the key requirements - for full details, refer to the Department of Internal Affairs resources linked at the bottom of this page.

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### Message types

There are two main categories of TXT message, each with different requirements.

**Service / Transactional messages** are sent in response to a relationship or transaction with the recipient. Examples include appointment reminders, renewal notices, and delivery updates.

**Marketing messages** are promotional in nature. Examples include sale announcements and promotional offers.

Because the requirements differ between these two types, we recommend using a separate shortcode for each type of communication. See TXT Concepts for more on shortcodes.

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### Opt-in requirements

For marketing TXT messages, you must have explicit opt-in consent from the recipient. This means:

* The opt-in must be a separate, unticked checkbox - not bundled with other consent
* It must be clearly labelled, for example: *"I consent to receive promotional offers via TXT"*
* The TXT opt-in should be separate from any email marketing opt-in

If your TXT programme is initiated by the recipient texting in - for example, a radio promotion asking customers to text a shortcode - this inbound message constitutes implicit consent.

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### Required message content

There are minimum content requirements depending on the message type.

**Service messages must include:**

* The sender's name within the message body
* The message *"Standard TXT charges apply"* if the shortcode is not zero-rated

**Marketing messages must include:**

* The sender's name within the message body
* A clear opt-out instruction at the end of the message, for example: *"Opt-out: reply STOP"*
* The opt-out channel must match the outbound channel - you cannot direct TXT recipients to email to opt out

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### TXT length

A single TXT is a message of **up to** 160 characters. If your message goes over 160 characters then the TXT will be split into parts made up of **153 characters.** This is not a limitation from UbiQuity but an industry standard.

This means that messages will be charged as follows:

up to **160** characters = 1 TXT\
up to **306** characters = 2 TXT\
up to **459** characters = 3 TXT

with each increase of 153 characters adding an additional TXT send cost

The contact will see any message over one part as a single TXT within their device.

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### Further reading

For full guidance on TXT/SMS regulations in New Zealand, refer to the Department of Internal Affairs:

* [Commercial electronic messaging for businesses](https://www.dia.govt.nz/Spam---Commercial-electronic-messaging-in-New-Zealand)
* [Frequently asked questions: TXT](https://www.dia.govt.nz/Spam-Frequently-Asked-Questions#tex)


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