Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which cell phones can receive text messages?

Nearly all phones purchased in the last ten years are capable of sending and receiving text messages.

Q: What is the advantage of using text messaging?

Text messages are a brief, effective, inexpensive means of communication. Most people carry their cellular phones with them wherever they go, so unlike e-mail, text messages can reach people when they are away from their desks.

Q: Can you guarantee delivery of every text message that I send?

No. As text messaging is a store-and-forward technology dependent on carriers and their networks, it is impossible to guarantee delivery of every text message.

Q: Do you require Opt-ins?

Yes, all your subscribers have to be opted-in by us before we send them a message. If you currently have a list of contacts, please contact us.

Q: How much do text messages cost to send using ThisBig?

ThisBig does not charge per individual messages. We offer bulk messaging plans. Please see our Pricing page for complete details.

Q: Do you charge any fees? Do I need to sign a monthly contract?

ThisBig does not require you to sign a contract. When you open a ThisBig account it is set to send the amount of messages outlined in our Pricing Page. You can change your plan according to the amount of messages you wish to send. Please see our Pricing page for complete details.

Q: How long may I save unused messages for?

If you are on a monthly plan, your message sending limits resets at the beginning of each billing period. Messages do not "roll over."

Q: Do subscribers pay for received messages?

Never to ThisBig. However, your subscriber may be charged by their carrier depending on their individual plan.

Q: Can I use my ThisBig account to send group / bulk text messages?

Yes! That is exactly what your ThisBig account is. You create and send Group/Bulk messages with the click of a single button from our website.

Q: Can I receive replies to the group text messages that I send?

It's a coming feature.

Q: How many characters may I include in a text message?

Sending a text message through our website is limited to 100 characters. Characters mean letters, numbers, spaces, symbols and punctuation. Our system automatically inserts your business name, telephone number, and the required unsubscribe instructions to your message.

Q: How long does it take to deliver a text message?

Text messages are usually delivered to mobile phones in a few seconds to a few minutes. During peak hours, there could be a short delay. Please note that additional delays may occur if recipient's phone is turned off or out of the coverage area.

Q: Does ThisBig limit me to a certain number of text messages?

Our standard plans allow you to send 1 message per day to your subscribers. Please contact us if you have additional requirements.

Q: How come some of my contacts didn't receive a text that I sent them?

First, please make sure that the recipient has text messaging enabled with his/her carrier. If your recipient uses a prepaid mobile phone service, his/her balance may be too low (assuming he/she pays for incoming text messages). Other reasons that a recipient may not receive a text message include (but are not limited to): memory full, out of network, etc.

Q: Do I pay for text messages that my recipients do not receive?

Every message we send on your behalf counts towards your monthly limits.

Q: What is a Keyword?

A Keyword is a unique term (letters and/or numbers) that people can use to communicate with you via a Short Code.

Q: How do Keywords work?

When you purchase a messaging plan, a unique keyword is associated with your business. Your customers can then send a message containing the Keyword to automatically join your Messaging list. Our software will respond to them confirming that they have joined (Opted-In) to your list.

Q: Can I have any Keyword I want? Are there any limitations?

As long as the Keyword you want is available, you can register it when you initially sign up for an account. You can use any combination of letters and numbers.

Q: Are there rules for how I can promote my Keyword online or in print?

According to carrier guidelines you must include the following:

MSG&data rates may apply.
Frequency (ex: Max 2 messages per week)
Opt out instructions (ex: Reply X To unsubscribe)
Carriers supported: Alltel, AT&T, Boost Mobile, Cellular One, Cellular South, Cincinnati Bell, Cricket, MetroPCS, Nextel, Sprint, T-Mobile, US Cellular, Verizon Wireless, Virgin.

Q: What is a Short Code?

A Short Code is a 5 digit or 6 digit number to which text messages can be sent from a mobile phone. Cell phone users send text messages to short codes to access a wide variety of mobile content. Common short codes are easy to remember and they are compatible across all participating carriers.

Q: Where is my data stored? How do you protect my data?

When you create a ThisBig account we store your information on our secure data server. No one has access to your data (personal information and your subscribers). We do not store credit card or any payment information. If you would like to share the data in your account with someone else, you may choose to provide them with your login information.

Q: Who owns my data?

You own your data. We will never contact the people on your lists, nor will we do anything else with your data without your consent.

Q: How long does it take to get started?

Register now, and your account will be set up instantly.

Q: Do I need to posses any technical knowledge/skills?

Nope! ThisBig's Messaging software is designed to be simple. Our software is so intuitive that you'll be a pro in no time. If you do run into some problems just contact support and our friendly support team will assist you.

Q: What do I need to use ThisBig?

All you need is a computer and an Internet connection. Our software is completely web-based, so there is nothing to download. You can use a PC, a Mac, or any other computer-- even your web enabled cell phone.

Q: Where Does ThisBig Work?

ThisBig works in the United States (including Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico). Our US Short Code is 313131.

Q: Will you send other advertisements via text message to my contacts?

No. We will never send messages (including advertising) to your contacts.

Q: Is my list of contacts secure? How do you protect my privacy?

Your contacts are kept in strict confidentiality. We do not share, rent, or sell subscriber information belonging to our clients to any third parties. Data (including contacts) that you enter in your account belongs to you, and you alone.

Q: Do I need to know the carrier or provider of my subscribers?

No.

Q: Can I collect numbers on my website?

Yes. We provide you with an HTML sign-up widget that you can place on your website, Facebook page, and E-mail Blasts.

Q: I own a website and I would like to provide text messaging services.

ThisBig offers customized solutions to all of your text messaging needs. Please contact us.