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 a link domain for SMS short links is free for all Omnisend users.
The same link domain can be used for Email Click Tracking, SMS Short Links, and Forms Landing Page.
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.
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.
Steps to Set Up Your Link Domain for SMS Short Links
Step 1. Set up and verify your link domain
If you haven't verified a link domain yet, follow our Set Up a Link Domain in Omnisend guide to add DNS records and complete verification.
💡 Already verified your link domain? Continue to Step 2.
Step 2. Confirm your link domain is assigned to SMS short links
Once your link domain is verified, confirm it's assigned to SMS short links:
Go to Store settings → Domains → Domain usage.
If you see Shared domain under SMS short links, select your link domain from the dropdown menu.
If your domain is already selected, you're all set! Your branded domain will be used for all new SMS short links.
⚠️ Important: Only one domain can be used at a time for SMS links. Until you verify and assign your link domain, your links will continue using the default 0snd.com domain.
Step 3. Enable link shortening 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.
What happens if my link domain expires or stops working?
All SMS links that use your branded domain will stop working, including links in previously sent messages. Previously sent SMS messages will NOT automatically revert to the shared 0snd.com domain. You'll need to fix your domain (renew it, correct DNS records) or set up a new domain. Future messages will use the new domain, but previously sent messages will continue trying to use the broken domain.
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.