Why should I use SMS and not Email?
SMS messages outperform emails by a huge margin when it comes to being opened - the average open rate for texts is 98% compared to only 19.8% for emails!
SMS is a one-way reminder tool for most.
We say unlock its true power as a two-way sales machine.
If you collect mobile numbers for leads, reply by text instead of email.
Watch your reply rates skyrocket and leads convert fast! 
What can you do with SMS in Boxly
Send automated messages for incoming leads
Send automated replies to new leads via SMS. We suggest using a placeholder message like the example below to let the customer know you've received their enquiry and that someone will get back to them shortly.
Hello there,
We've received your enquiry and will respond shortly. Feel free to reply if you have more to share.
Thank you! - Your name
Let customers message your SMS number directly
When you connect SMS as a channel you will receive a dedicated SMS number. Share this number or hyperlink it to a button to allow prospects and customers to SMS you directly. Once they do an enquiry will come into Boxly.
Add this where you would normally add in a page link on a button. “sms:[phonenumber]” Simply add your Boxly SMS number.
Connect SMS as a channel and get an SMS number
Click the channels icon on the left hand menu and then click connect on the SMS channel
Buy an SMS bundle
Click the bundle that you'd like to purchase.
Please Note: SMS is currently only available for our UK customers
Now that you have selected a bundle, a pop up will show.
Fill in your business details and press confirm.
Your SMS number
After you have purchased a bundle, your SMS number has now been created.
To see your number, click on the Settings tab. This is the number that customers and prospects can message you on. If they do a lead will come into Boxly.
This is also the number used for any outbound messages or replies to enquiries.
Currently we only support one SMS number per account and we cannot support the import of an existing SMS number.
Replying to leads via SMS
Provided the lead contains a valid mobile number, click the dropdown on the editor "Reply by Email" and select the "Reply by SMS" option.
One SMS = 160 characters. If you use more than 160 characters it will still be received as one message by the customer but will be billed as two or more depending on the number of characters.
Sometimes, SMS messages may appear longer than expected because different characters take up varying amounts of space when sent.
This is a common occurrence across all mobile networks and messaging systems, it’s not something specific to our platform.
Standard letters and numbers fit efficiently within a single message, but special characters, such as emojis, symbols (£, €, {, }), or even certain punctuation, require extra data.
For example, while a standard text message can contain up to 160 characters, using an emoji or a special symbol can reduce this limit to just 70 characters per message.
This happens because the message is encoded differently, which can lead to it being split into multiple parts and increasing costs.
For instance:
A message with only standard letters and numbers (e.g., "Hello, how are you?") will count as one part if under 160 characters.
A message with an emoji (e.g., "Hello
, how are you?") may reduce the character limit to 70, causing it to be split into multiple parts.
To keep messages concise and avoid unnecessary splits, we recommend using simple text where possible.
Send Automated SMS ( For incoming messages )
If a prospect or customer sends a message to your SMS number you can setup an automated SMS reply.
By default we have an SMS reply created and turned on for you.
Click "edit" to make changes to this message.
This message will be sent to any incoming message sent to your number.
In addition to the automated message you can assign the message to a team member or move it to a box automatically.
To do that, simply click on the relevant automation and set it up.
Send Automated SMS ( Based on a stage in a Box )
You may want to send an SMS automatically if an lead is moved into a specific stage in a box. For example, appointment booked or attended.
Setting that up takes a few clicks.
You can find the SMS automations inside your box here 
The click on Automate stuff and then + Automation
Give your automation a name.
The select the stage name that the lead will be moved to trigger the SMS.
Then select if you want to send to people that enquired from a specific channel or any channel.
Then write your SMS message and hit save.
That's it! When you move a lead into that stage, the SMS will send to the customer.
SMS Billing
To manage your SMS billing, click on the SMS Billing tab.
Purchasing and managing SMS bundles is a straightforward process that allows you to send messages conveniently and cost-effectively. In this article, we'll walk you through the essential details of SMS bundles and how to make the most of them.
Purchasing SMS Bundles
Choose Your Bundle: You can select any SMS bundle that suits your needs. Typically, the higher the bundle price, the lower the cost per message. It's all about finding the right fit for your messaging requirements.
No Receiving Charges: Good news – there are no charges for receiving SMS messages. You only pay for the messages you send.
Upgrading or Downgrading Your Bundle
Once you've purchased a bundle, you have the flexibility to upgrade or downgrade to another bundle if you wish, provided you have a suitable alternative available.
Upgrade or Downgrade: Select a new bundle that aligns with your requirements. The change will take effect after you've used up your current bundle.
Cancelling Your SMS Bundle
You also have the option to cancel your SMS bundle if needed. Be aware that cancelling a bundle means your associated phone number will be deactivated, and you won't be able to retrieve it.
Managing Your Bundle
What Happens When Your Bundle Runs Out?
When you've used up all the SMS messages in your bundle, they will automatically be replenished by the same amount. You'll receive an email notification when your balance is running low to keep you informed.
Opting Out of Auto Top-Up
If you prefer not to have your SMS bundle auto-renewed, you can choose to cancel the auto top-up feature. Once cancelled, you can then select a different bundle or opt to manually replenish your SMS balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my own number?
No. Each account has a custom number generated by Boxly. Existing numbers will be unable to be used to send or receive SMS
What happens when I use all my SMS?
When all your SMS are used up they will automatically be topped up by the same amount again. You will receive an email when your balance is low to notify you. If you do not want to auto top up your SMS bundle you will need to cancel the auto top up and select another bundle.
If I cancel my SMS plan, what will happen to my number?
If you cancel your SMS plan, your SMS number will be deleted and you cannot get it back. If you cancel and want to sign up again for SMS you will receive a new SMS number.