Zero rated codes and standard rated codes are two different types of short codes used for SMS messaging.
Where zero rated codes are often referred to as 'free to end user', standard rated codes will sometimes incur a cost to the recipient, so it's important to understand the differences when considering which code you need for your business.
Key Differences
| Features | Zero Rated Codes | Standard Rated Codes |
| Inbound/Outbound Messages | 4-digit codes where the company will pay for both inbound and outbound messages. The end user will not be charged. | 4-digit codes where the end user is charged 20 cents on their telco services account. |
| Cost of Message | The business sending the message takes on the inbound and outbound charges. | Messages cost 20 cents and are charged to the recipient. |
| Marketing | If messages are for marketing purposes, short codes must be zero-rated due to opt-out compliance rules. | Messages must inform the end-user of the charge to reply to the message.** |
| Consent | End users must be given the option to opt out.* | It's essential that users are informed of the 20c charge to reply and that the end user has provided consent.** |
When using standard rated codes, consent is required and all messages must contain content such as "reply messages cost 20 cents".