SMS Information
While outgoing SMS capability is coming soon, FlyNumber currently supports incoming SMS messages for select numbers.
Checking SMS Availability​
To check if a number supports SMS:
- Visit the Coverage Page
- Look for the "S" icon next to the city/prefix
The legend indicates various features available for each area code:
- S: SMS enabled (incoming)
- F: Free incoming with VoIP
- I: Has incoming per-minute rate
- R: Registration required
- X: Fax enabled
Default SMS Behavior​
When you purchase a number with SMS capability:
- SMS forwarding is automatically enabled
- Messages are forwarded to your account email address
- You should check spam/junk folders if messages aren't received
- Consider whitelisting @flynumber.com emails
International SMS Reliability​
SMS works most reliably when the sender and your FlyNumber are located in the same country. International SMS messages (from a different country) may not always reach your FlyNumber due to how global telecom networks route messages to virtual numbers.
The Principle: Same-Country vs. International​
The reliability of SMS delivery to your FlyNumber depends largely on whether the sender is in the same country as your number:
| Sender's Country | Your FlyNumber's Country | Reliability | Why? |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | USA | High | Messages stay within a single country's network, with established carrier agreements. |
| UK | Germany | Variable / Low | The message must pass through multiple international carriers, each with its own filtering rules for virtual numbers. This is where failures often occur. |
Why This Happens​
This limitation exists across the telecommunications industry for several reasons:
Carrier Routing Agreements
- International SMS requires messages to pass through multiple carriers
- Not all carriers have agreements to route SMS to virtual numbers in other countries
- Each carrier hop introduces potential filtering points
Virtual Number Filtering
- Many international carriers identify and filter messages to virtual/VoIP numbers
- This is an industry-wide spam prevention measure affecting most virtual number providers
- Carriers prioritize routing to traditional mobile numbers over virtual numbers
Network Architecture
- SMS infrastructure was originally designed for domestic mobile-to-mobile messaging
- Cross-border routing adds complexity and potential failure points
- Each country's telecom system has different policies for handling virtual numbers
Recommendations for Reliable SMS​
For the highest reliability:
- Match the Country: If you need reliable SMS from contacts in a specific country, the best solution is to use a FlyNumber from that same country.
- Use Voice Verification: For 2FA codes, phone call verification is often more reliable than SMS for virtual numbers. See 2FA and Verification Services for details.
- Consider OTT Apps: For general messaging, apps like WhatsApp, Signal, or Telegram do not rely on the SMS network and are excellent alternatives for international communication.
Managing SMS Settings​
Account Level Settings​
Manage default SMS settings through Account Settings:
- Navigate to Account Settings
- Locate the SMS Settings section
- Configure your preferred email address
- Enable or disable SMS forwarding
If you see no email in the "Forward Email" field, make sure "Forward SMS" is set to Yes and click "Save Changes".
Individual Number Settings​
Configure SMS settings for specific numbers:
- Go to My FlyNumbers
- Click "Details" on the desired number
- Scroll to "SMS Settings"
- Adjust forwarding options:
- Enable/disable SMS forwarding
- Choose email destination
- Set custom forward email
You can use different email addresses for different numbers by configuring individual number settings instead of using the account-level settings.
2FA and Verification Services​
The ability to receive 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) or verification SMS messages on your FlyNumber depends on the sending service provider. While we've seen success with certain companies and providers, we cannot guarantee all verification services will work. Delivery challenges may also be related to international SMS routing limitations.
What to Expect​
| SMS Type | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Regular mobile-to-mobile SMS | Generally works well |
| Short code messages | Varies by provider |
| 2FA verification codes | Depends on sending service |
| Marketing messages | Usually delivered successfully |
| WhatsApp Business | Compatible with Meta Business Suite |
FlyNumber users have successfully registered their numbers with WhatsApp Business accounts through Meta Business Suite. This enables integration with various Meta platforms including Facebook and Instagram, expanding your business communication channels.
Keep in mind that WhatsApp Business registration processes and requirements may vary by region and account type.
Many services offer "Verify by Phone Call" as an alternative to SMS verification. This method is highly reliable with FlyNumbers:
- The service calls your FlyNumber
- You answer the call and hear a verification code/PIN
- Enter the code on the service's website/app
- This method typically works even when SMS verification isn't supported
Best Practices​
For critical services requiring verification, we recommend:
- Testing the service with your FlyNumber before relying on it
- Having a backup verification method available
- Checking with the service provider about virtual number compatibility
- Choosing "Verify by Phone Call" when available, as it's generally more reliable than SMS verification