Branded SMS short links are optional. If you don't set them up, Omnisend automatically uses the shared 0snd.com domain – your SMS campaigns will work the same way. Branded links just make your links more recognizable and trustworthy to customers.
Instead of sending generic short links (0snd.com), you can use a custom domain or subdomain (like sms.yourbrand.com) that includes your brand name. This builds trust, improves deliverability, and boosts click-through rates.
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 works in SMS.
Already have a verified subdomain for Email Click Tracking? You can use the same domain for SMS short links. Just go to Store settings → Domains → Domain usage and assign it to SMS short links. Learn more about Branded Click Tracking for Emails.
What Are Branded SMS Short Links?
When you include a link in your SMS message – such as a product page or landing page – 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.
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 shortened domain (e.g., sms.yourbrand.com) to be used for your SMS links.
You have two options for setting up a branded domain for SMS:
Use a subdomain such as
sms.yourbrand.com. Usually, you don’t need to purchase a new domain. You can simply create a subdomain under your existing domain in your DNS provider's settings.Use a shortened version of your domain, like
yourbrnd.co. This is a separate domain you purchase with your DNS provider, specifically for link tracking.
⚠️ Please note that Omnisend is not responsible for DNS configuration, pricing, or limitations set by third-party DNS providers.
DNS requirements and available configuration options can vary significantly depending on the provider you use. If your DNS provider does not support certain record types or requires additional fees for creating subdomains, please consult your DNS provider directly.
Omnisend can only supply the DNS records required for SMS domain verification; however, any provider-specific rules, fees, or limitations fall outside of our control.
⚠️ Omnisend recommends using a dedicated subdomain whenever possible.
Subdomains provide better deliverability and reputation protection because they clearly identify your brand’s verified domain and separate SMS activity from your main website. Shortened domains can work if they belong to you and are used exclusively for SMS, but they may perform slightly worse in regions with strict spam filtering or phishing protection.
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.
DNS requirements and available configuration options can vary significantly depending on the provider you use. If your DNS provider does not support certain record types or requires additional fees for creating subdomains, please consult your DNS provider directly. Omnisend can only supply the DNS records required for SMS domain verification; however, any provider-specific rules, fees, or limitations fall outside of our control.
Step 6. Assign your verified domain to SMS short links. Once your SMS domain is verified, you must assign it for use with SMS short links in your Omnisend domain settings:
Go to Store Settings → Domain → Domain usage.
Select your verified domain from the dropdown under SMS short links.
Click Save.
⚠️ Important: Only one domain can be used at a time for SMS links. Until you complete this step, your links will continue using the default 0snd.com domain.
Step 7. Enable branded links in each SMS message. To use your branded domain, you must turn on the 'Automatically shorten links' toggle when creating each SMS campaign or automation. This setting applies per message, not globally.
For SMS campaigns: Turn on the Automatically shorten links toggle when creating your message.
For automation workflows: Select the SMS message block and check the Automatically shorten links box in the right-hand menu.
FAQ
Why is my domain verified but links still show 0snd.com?
After verifying your domain, you must:
Assign it to SMS short links under Store Settings → Domain → Domain Usage
Enable the 'Automatically shorten links' toggle when creating each SMS campaign or automation
Without both steps, your links will continue using the default 0snd.com domain.
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.
Can I send SMS campaigns without setting up branded links?
Yes. Branded SMS short links are optional. If you don't set them up, Omnisend automatically shortens your links using the default 0snd.com domain. Your SMS campaigns will send normally – branded links just make your links more recognizable and build trust with customers.
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.
What if I can't verify my domain with my DNS provider (e.g., GoDaddy)?
If verification fails after 48 hours, check:
Both CNAME records are added exactly as shown in Omnisend (no typos or extra spaces)
Records are added under your subdomain's DNS panel, not your main domain
There are no duplicate or conflicting records with the same "Name" field
Contact your DNS provider to confirm DNS propagation and record formatting – each provider has different requirements
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.