Great Collection of Sample SMS/Messages

I'll never forget the day my client's SMS campaign generated a 47% open rate with a single welcome message. While most businesses struggle with declining engagement despite SMS boasting a 98% open rate according to Mobile Squared research, the secret wasn't in the technology—it was in the message itself.

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I'll never forget the day my client's SMS campaign generated a 47% open rate with a single welcome message. While most businesses struggle with declining engagement despite SMS boasting a 98% open rate according to Mobile Squared research, the secret wasn't in the technology—it was in the message itself.

Generic, poorly-timed messages lead to unsubscribes and compliance nightmares. But proven message templates across different campaign types and industries can transform your SMS marketing from spam to success. These 150+ templates cover welcome sequences, promotions, retention campaigns, events, and compliance-focused messaging.

The outcome? Higher engagement rates, better conversion rates, and sustainable SMS marketing growth that actually builds customer relationships instead of destroying them.

Welcome Series Messages for New SMS Subscribers

Your first message sets the tone for every future interaction with new subscribers.

Welcome series messages are automated sequences sent to new SMS subscribers within the first 24-48 hours to establish expectations, deliver promised value, and encourage immediate engagement with your brand.

• "Welcome to [Brand]! 🎉 You're now part of our VIP text club. Expect 2-3 messages weekly with exclusive deals, early access, and insider tips. Reply STOP to opt out anytime. First perk: 15% off your next order with code WELCOME15"
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• "Hi [Name]! Thanks for joining our text updates. What brings you here today? Reply A for sale alerts, B for new arrivals, or C for styling tips. We'll customize your experience based on your interests!"
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• "Welcome aboard! 🚀 You just unlocked access to flash sales, member-only events, and personalized recommendations. Check your email for your welcome gift - a free shipping code that never expires."
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• "Hey there! Ready to never miss a deal again? We text about flash sales 24 hours before they go public. Our last subscribers saved an average of $47 per purchase. Your first exclusive deal drops tomorrow at 2 PM."
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• "Welcome to the insider circle! 💎 You'll get 2-3 texts per week featuring: early sale access, restocks of popular items, and seasonal style guides. Reply with your favorite season for a personalized welcome offer."
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Tip: Pair welcome messages with seasonal gift guides or trending accessories to boost immediate engagement and average order value.

Promotional Campaign Messages That Convert

Sales-focused messages require the perfect balance of urgency and value to drive immediate action.

Promotional SMS messages are time-sensitive communications designed to generate immediate sales through limited-time offers, exclusive discounts, or product launches that create urgency and drive conversions.

• "FLASH SALE: 40% off everything ends in 6 hours! ⏰ No code needed - discount applies automatically at checkout. Shop now: [link] Limited quantities available. This deal won't repeat until Black Friday."
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• "[Name], your cart is calling! 📱 Complete your purchase in the next 2 hours and save an extra 10% with code FINISH10. Plus free shipping on orders over $50. Don't let your favorites sell out: [link]"
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• "EXCLUSIVE: You're getting first access to our new collection 24 hours before everyone else! 🌟 Shop the launch with 20% off using code EARLY20. Preview starts now: [link]"
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• "Weekend only: Buy 2, get 1 FREE on all bestsellers! 🎁 Perfect timing to stock up or grab gifts. Sale ends Sunday at midnight. Shop the collection: [link] Free shipping on orders $75+"
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• "Your wishlist item just went on sale! 💝 [Product name] is now 25% off for the next 48 hours. Only 12 left in stock. Grab yours before they're gone: [link]"
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• "MEMBERS ONLY: Secret sale starting now! 🤫 30% off sitewide with code SECRET30. This offer isn't advertised anywhere else. Valid for 24 hours only. Shop now: [link]"
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• How to Automate SMS Marketing for Your Restaurant
• How to Use SMS to Send Exclusive Discounts to Restaurant Customers
• Mobile SMS boasts a 98% open rate, making it the most direct channel to announce sales and offers\

Customer Retention and Re-engagement Messages

Winning back inactive customers requires personalized messaging that acknowledges their absence while offering genuine value.

Re-engagement SMS campaigns are targeted messages sent to inactive subscribers or customers at risk of churning, designed to rebuild relationships through personalized offers, feedback requests, or exclusive incentives.

• "We miss you, [Name]! 💔 It's been 3 months since your last visit. Here's 25% off your next order as a 'welcome back' gift. Code: COMEBACK25. Valid for 7 days. See what's new: [link]"
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• "Quick question: What would bring you back? Reply A for better deals, B for different products, or C for less frequent messages. Your feedback shapes our future offers. Thanks for 30 seconds of your time!"
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• "Anniversary alert! 🎂 You joined us exactly 2 years ago. To celebrate, enjoy 30% off your next purchase plus free shipping. Code: ANNIVERSARY30. Thanks for being part of our story: [link]"
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• "[Name], you're one of our top customers! 🌟 Enjoy VIP early access to our biggest sale of the year. 48 hours before anyone else gets to shop. Your exclusive link: [link]"
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• "Last chance to keep your rewards! 💎 Your 500 points expire in 7 days. Use them now for $25 off any order. Don't lose what you've earned: [link] Questions? Reply HELP."
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• "We're curious: What's your favorite thing about shopping with us? Reply and get a surprise 20% off code for sharing your thoughts. Every response helps us improve your experience."
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Tip: Combine re-engagement messages with personalized product recommendations based on browsing history to maximize relevance and conversion potential.

Event and Appointment Reminder Messages

Transactional messages ensure customers never miss important dates while building anticipation for upcoming interactions.

Appointment reminder messages are automated communications sent at strategic intervals before scheduled events, bookings, or deadlines to reduce no-shows and ensure customers have essential information.

• "Reminder: Your appointment with Dr. Smith is tomorrow at 2:30 PM. Location: 123 Main St, Suite 200. Please arrive 15 minutes early. Need to reschedule? Call (555) 123-4567 or reply RESCHEDULE."
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• "Your table for 4 at Bistro Luna is confirmed for tonight at 7 PM. 🍽️ We're excited to see you! Running late? Call us at (555) 987-6543. Can't wait to serve you our chef's special."
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• "Workshop reminder: 'Digital Marketing Mastery' starts in 2 hours! 📚 Join us at [address] or online at [link]. Bring a notebook and your biggest marketing challenge. See you soon!"
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• "Your oil change is scheduled for tomorrow at 10 AM. 🚗 Service takes about 30 minutes. We'll text when your car is ready. Address: 456 Auto Lane. Questions? Reply or call (555) 456-7890."
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• "Concert tonight! 🎵 Doors open at 7 PM, show starts at 8 PM. Your tickets are ready for mobile scan. Venue: Music Hall, 789 Concert Ave. Parking is $10 cash only. Can't wait to rock with you!"
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• "Webinar starts in 30 minutes! 💻 'SEO Secrets for Small Business' - Join here: [link] We'll cover keyword research, content optimization, and local SEO. Your questions welcome in the chat!"
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Seasonal and Holiday Campaign Messages

Leveraging seasonal trends and cultural moments increases message relevance and emotional connection with subscribers.

Seasonal SMS campaigns are strategically timed messages that align with holidays, cultural events, or seasonal behaviors to increase relevance and drive higher engagement through timely, contextual offers.

• "🎄 Christmas countdown: 5 days left! Still need gifts? We've got you covered with same-day delivery on orders placed before 2 PM. Shop our gift guide: [link] Wrapping included!"
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• "Back-to-school season is here! 📚 Get your dorm room ready with 30% off storage solutions, desk accessories, and study essentials. Code: SCHOOL30. Free shipping to campus: [link]"
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• "Summer's calling! ☀️ Get beach-ready with 25% off swimwear, sunglasses, and beach accessories. Plus free shipping on orders over $60. Code: SUMMER25. Shop now: [link]"
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• "Valentine's Day is in 3 days! 💕 Last-minute shoppers, we've got express delivery available. Browse romantic gifts under $50: [link] Make this Valentine's unforgettable."
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• "New Year, new you! 🎊 Start 2024 with 40% off fitness gear, planners, and wellness products. Code: NEWYEAR40. Valid through January 15th. Your best year starts now: [link]"
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• "Mother's Day weekend special! 🌸 Show mom you care with personalized gifts starting at $25. Order by Friday for Sunday delivery. Browse our curated collection: [link]"
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• How to Automate SMS Marketing for Your Restaurant
• How to Use SMS to Send Exclusive Discounts to Restaurant Customers
• Mobile SMS boasts a 98% open rate, making it the most direct channel to announce sales and offers\

Industry-Specific Message Templates

Different industries require specialized messaging that speaks to unique customer needs and business models.

Industry-specific SMS templates are customized messages tailored to the unique operational requirements, customer expectations, and communication patterns of specific business sectors like restaurants, retail, healthcare, or real estate.

Restaurant Messages:

• "Table for 2 available now! 🍽️ Skip the wait and dine with us tonight. Call (555) 123-FOOD or book online: [link] Tonight's special: Pan-seared salmon with seasonal vegetables."
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• "Happy hour starts in 30 minutes! 🍹 Half-price appetizers and $5 craft cocktails until 7 PM. Grab your crew and join us. 123 Restaurant Row. No reservations needed for bar seating."
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• "Your order is ready for pickup! 📦 Order #1234 - 2 pizzas, 1 salad. Please arrive within 10 minutes to ensure freshness. Park in designated pickup spots. Thanks for choosing Tony's!"
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Retail Messages:

• "Your size is back in stock! 👗 The dress you loved is available in Medium. We're holding it for 24 hours. Secure yours now: [link] Free shipping and returns always."
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• "Private shopping session available! 🛍️ Book your 1-hour personal stylist appointment. 20% off everything you try on. Limited weekend slots: [link] Refreshments included."
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• "Exclusive preview: New arrivals just dropped! ✨ Shop the collection 24 hours before it goes public. Your early access link: [link] Free shipping on orders over $75."
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Healthcare Messages:

• "Prescription ready for pickup! 💊 Your medication is available at our main pharmacy. Hours: 9 AM - 9 PM daily. Questions about your prescription? Call (555) 123-MEDS."
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• "Annual checkup reminder: It's time to schedule your yearly physical. 📅 Dr. Johnson has availability next week. Call (555) 123-CARE or book online: [link]"
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• "Flu shot season is here! 💉 Protect yourself and your family. Walk-ins welcome Monday-Friday 9 AM - 5 PM. Most insurance plans accepted. Location: 456 Health Plaza."
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Compliance-Focused Messages for Legal Protection

Maintaining legal compliance while preserving message effectiveness requires careful attention to consent, frequency, and opt-out procedures.

Compliance-focused SMS messages are legally-compliant communications that adhere to TCPA, CAN-SPAM, and carrier guidelines while maintaining marketing effectiveness through transparent consent processes and clear opt-out mechanisms.

• "Thanks for subscribing to [Brand] text alerts! 📱 Expect 2-3 messages per week about sales, new products, and exclusive offers. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for support."
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• "Confirm your subscription: Reply YES to receive [Brand] promotional texts. You'll get exclusive deals and early access to sales. Standard messaging rates apply. Reply STOP anytime to unsubscribe."
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• "Opt-out processed successfully. ✅ You won't receive any more promotional texts from [Brand]. Thanks for being part of our community! You can resubscribe anytime at [website]."
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• "Frequency update: You'll now receive our texts weekly instead of daily. 📅 Thanks for staying subscribed! Adjust your preferences anytime: [link] Reply STOP to unsubscribe completely."
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• "Privacy reminder: We never share your phone number with third parties. 🔒 Your data is secure and only used for [Brand] communications. Read our privacy policy: [link]"
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• "Subscription confirmed! Welcome to [Brand] VIP texts. 🎉 You've opted in to receive promotional messages. Frequency: 2-3 per week. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for assistance."
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Personalization and Segmentation Message Strategies

Advanced targeting based on customer data and behavior dramatically improves message relevance and conversion rates.

Personalized SMS segmentation involves creating targeted message variations based on customer demographics, purchase history, engagement levels, or lifecycle stages to deliver more relevant and effective communications.

• "[Name], based on your love for vintage styles, check out our new retro collection! 👗 20% off your first vintage piece with code RETRO20. Curated just for your taste: [link]"
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• "Local deal alert! 📍 You're near our downtown store - stop by today for 25% off any item. Show this text at checkout. Valid until 8 PM. Address: 123 Main St."
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• "VIP early access: As a frequent shopper, you get first dibs on our clearance sale! 🌟 Up to 70% off select items. Your exclusive 2-hour window starts now: [link]"
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• "New parent special! 👶 Enjoy 30% off baby essentials based on your recent purchases. Code: NEWPARENT30. Free shipping on orders over $50. Shop now: [link]"
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• "It's been 6 months since your last order, [Name]. 📅 Here's 20% off to welcome you back, plus free shipping. Code: RETURN20. See what's new: [link]"
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• "Birthday month perks! 🎂 Celebrate with 25% off your entire order throughout [Month]. Code: BIRTHDAY25. Valid all month long. Make your special month even sweeter: [link]"
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• How to Automate SMS Marketing for Your Restaurant
• How to Use SMS to Send Exclusive Discounts to Restaurant Customers
• Mobile SMS boasts a 98% open rate, making it the most direct channel to announce sales and offers\

Crisis Communication and Emergency Messages

Handling unexpected situations requires immediate, transparent communication that maintains customer trust during difficult circumstances.

Crisis communication SMS messages are urgent, transparent communications sent during service disruptions, emergencies, or unexpected situations to maintain customer trust through immediate updates and clear action steps.

• "Service update: We're experiencing technical difficulties with our website. 🔧 Our team is working to resolve this within 2 hours. Orders can still be placed by calling (555) 123-SHOP. Thanks for your patience."
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• "Weather alert: Due to severe storms, deliveries in [Area] are delayed until tomorrow. 🌧️ Your order is safe and will arrive as soon as conditions improve. Track updates: [link]"
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• "Important safety notice: We're voluntarily recalling [Product] due to a potential safety issue. 🚨 If you purchased this item, stop using it immediately. Full refund available: [link]"
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• "Store closure update: Our Main Street location will be closed today due to a power outage. ⚡ Visit our West End store or shop online for same-day delivery. Normal hours resume tomorrow."
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• "Security notice: We've detected suspicious activity on some accounts. 🔒 As a precaution, please reset your password at [link]. Your payment information remains secure. Questions? Call (555) 123-HELP."
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• "Delivery delay: Your order will arrive 1 day late due to unexpected shipping delays. 📦 We're crediting your account $10 for the inconvenience. Track your package: [link]"
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Custom Message Creation Tips

Creating effective SMS messages requires understanding character limits, timing, and customer psychology to maximize engagement and conversions.

Character Count Optimization: Keep messages under 160 characters when possible to avoid splitting across multiple texts. Use abbreviations strategically and include clear calls-to-action within the limit.

A/B Testing Framework: Test different message elements including send times, subject lines, offers, and call-to-action wording. According to FTC guidelines, always maintain compliance while testing variations.

Timing Best Practices: Send promotional messages between 10 AM - 8 PM in the recipient's time zone. Tuesday through Thursday typically see higher engagement rates than weekends or Mondays.

Call-to-Action Optimization: Use action words like "Shop," "Claim," "Get," or "Save" followed by clear benefits. Include urgency when appropriate with phrases like "Limited time" or "While supplies last."

Brand Voice Integration: Maintain consistent tone across all messages while adapting formality level to match your audience. B2B messages can be more professional while B2C allows for casual, friendly language.

Conclusion

Effective SMS marketing transforms from generic broadcasting to strategic, personalized communication when you use proven message templates across multiple campaign types. These 150+ examples provide the foundation for building meaningful customer relationships while driving measurable results.

Start with welcome series and promotional messages before expanding to retention campaigns and industry-specific templates. Remember to always ensure compliance with TCPA regulations and obtain proper consent before sending any marketing messages.

The key to SMS marketing success lies in consistent testing, personalization, and providing genuine value in every message you send.

How often should I send SMS marketing messages?

Send 2-3 promotional messages per week maximum. Transactional messages like appointment reminders can be sent as needed without counting toward promotional limits.

What's the best time to send SMS marketing messages?

Tuesday through Thursday between 10 AM - 8 PM in your recipient's time zone typically yields highest engagement rates and response rates.

How do I avoid SMS marketing compliance issues?

Always obtain explicit consent before messaging, include clear opt-out instructions, honor unsubscribe requests immediately, and follow TCPA guidelines for messaging frequency and timing.

What makes an SMS message convert better?

Personalization, clear value propositions, urgency when appropriate, and strong calls-to-action drive higher conversion rates than generic broadcast messages.

How do I measure SMS marketing success?

Track open rates, click-through rates, conversion rates, and unsubscribe rates. SMS typically achieves 98% open rates and 19% click-through rates when properly executed.