Branded SMS short links help build trust with your audience, improve deliverability, and boost click rates. Instead of sending generic or long third-party links, you can use a short, custom link that includes your brand name.
In Omnisend, this means your recipients will see links that clearly come from your business – not from a random or shared domain.
Before You Begin
The use of branded SMS short links is free for all Omnisend users.
If you don’t set up your own domain for SMS, Omnisend uses a shared domain (
0snd.com) in your SMS links by default.Learn how link replacement in SMS works.
What Are Branded SMS Short Links?
When you include a link in your SMS message – such as a product page, landing page, or similar – Omnisend can automatically shorten it to save space and track clicks. By default, these short links use Omnisend’s shared domain (0snd.com).
Branded SMS short links let you replace the shared domain with your own custom domain or subdomain (e.g., sms.yourbrand.com).
This helps you stand out and creates a more trustworthy experience for your audience.
Benefits of Using Branded Short Links:
Build trust by showing your brand name in the link.
Improve deliverability by reducing spam-like characteristics.
Increase click-through rates with recognizable, brand-aligned links.
Strengthen brand visibility in every SMS message.
Setting Up SMS Short Links
To use branded links in SMS, you’ll need to set up and verify a custom domain or subdomain through your DNS provider (like GoDaddy, Cloudflare, etc.).
You don’t need to purchase a new domain unless you want to use a completely new one. Most users create a subdomain of their existing website.
⚠️ Critical warning: Do NOT use your primary website domain for branded SMS short links, as this can affect your store or email performance.
Your main domain should already be tied to your email authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC). Using it for SMS short links as well may cause domain reputation conflicts, which could hurt your email deliverability.
Instead, use one of these options for SMS links:
A subdomain, e.g., 'sms.yourbrand.com'.
A shortened version of your store name, e.g., 'omnsnd.com' instead of 'omnisend.com'.
Steps to Set Up Your Branded Domain for SMS Links
Step 1. Go to your Store settings → Domain → Add Domain.
Step 2. Select the option to add a domain specifically for branded SMS short links and click Continue.
Step 3. Select your domain provider.
Omnisend will generate personalized instructions based on your domain provider. If you’re not sure who your provider is, select "I don't know" or search your domain name here to find out.
Step 4. Enter your subdomain or domain (e.g., sms.yourbrand.com) for your SMS links.
💡 You don’t have to buy a new domain if you already have one. Just create and use a subdomain for SMS. You can create a subdomain in your main DNS provider.
Step 5. Copy the two CNAME records shown in Omnisend and add them to your DNS provider’s settings.
This step verifies your domain.
The process may take up to 48 hours.
Make sure the records are added correctly to avoid delays.
Reminder: The verification process can take up to 48 hours. Ensure that all necessary records are in place to prevent repeating the process if issues arise.
Once your SMS domain is verified, assign it for use with SMS short links in your Omnisend domain settings under Domain usage.
Branded Short Links in Campaigns
To use branded links in SMS campaigns, turn on the Automatically shorten links toggle when creating your message.
Branded Short Links in Automations
For automation workflows, select the SMS message block and check the Automatically shorten links box in the right-hand menu.
FAQ
Do I need to buy a new domain just for SMS links?
No. You can use a subdomain of your existing website domain by setting it up in your DNS provider.
What happens if I uncheck the shorten links option?
If you disable the “Automatically shorten links” toggle, long URLs will be sent as-is. This may increase message length and cost.
What if my domain gets unverified?
Verification can take up to 48 hours. If it fails, check that the CNAME records were entered correctly in your DNS. Until your domain is verified, Omnisend will use the default shared domain.
Can I use more than one branded domain for SMS short links?
You can verify multiple domains in Store Settings, but only one can be used at a time for SMS links.
Will changing my SMS short link domain affect old links I’ve already sent?
No. Previously sent links will remain functional. Only new messages will use the updated domain links.
Do branded short links impact my SMS sending costs?
Yes. Shorter links reduce the character count, which can lower your message cost.
Any other questions on your mind? Reach out to our support team through the in-app chat or at [email protected] – our team is available 24/7.