How to Send Text Messages to a US Number from the UK?

When texting the US from the UK, consider cost, carrier limitations and follow the correct international number format for texting. There is no avoiding the expenses of communicating across borders, yet regular updates are necessary to maintain the success of your new collaboration.

Using the correct phone number format ensures that your message will reach the relevant person accurately. When texting internationally from the UK to the US, ensure you forward the message to the correct phone number of the recipient. Also, do not forget to include +1 before dialing the 10-digit local number.

Example of US phone number format: +1 123 456 789X

International texting rates can vary significantly between UK carriers, and understanding these costs will help you avoid unexpected fees. Many providers offer international roaming add-ons or packages that provide more affordable texting options.

Cost of sending SMS from the UK to the US in the major United Kingdom carriers:

• Vodafone: Around £0.60 per message
• O2: Around £0.50 per message
• Three: Around £0.40 per message

Certain UK carriers may prohibit sending SMS to specific US numbers, especially virtual or VoIP-based ones like Google Voice or Twilio. Carriers like Telefonica and Sky may also restrict messages to premium-rate numbers in the USA. Some carriers may also limit the use of special characters or message length. To solve this, contact your carrier’s customer service to determine if they permit texting to the US.

You can text from the UK to the USA using your mobile carrier’s international SMS service, internet-based messaging apps, or a virtual phone number.

The simplest way to send a text message from the UK to a US number is to use your mobile number service provider. Most UK carriers support international messaging, although there may be extra fees depending on your plan.

Here’s how to send SMS to the United States from the UK using traditional mobile carriers:

• Step 1: Open Your Messaging App
• Step 2: Enter the Recipient’s Phone Number
• Step 3: Compose Your Message
• Step 4: Send the Message

Texting the USA from the UK using internet-based messaging applications like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and iMessage is also an affordable option. These apps let you transmit texts, images, and videos over Wi-Fi or mobile data, saving you money on international texting costs.

Here’s how to text from the UK to the USA using messaging apps (Whatsapp):

• Step 1: Download and Install the Messenger app
• Step 2: Create your account
• Step 3: Add the Recipient’s Phone Number (ensure it includes the country code +1).
• Step 4: Search the recipient’s name and click on it.
• Step 5: Write Your Message
• Step 6: Send the Message

A virtual phone number is an online phone number provided by a VoIP phone service provider. They allow you to send/receive text messages using the VoIP apps.

Here’s how to send text to the United States from the UK using a virtual number:

• Step 1: Sign Up with a Virtual Number Service provider.
• Step 2: Pick your desired phone number
• Step 3: Open the App or Platform
• Step 4: Access the Messaging feature and compose your message
• Step 5: Send the Message

• Use Wi-Fi Instead of Mobile Networks: Use Wi-Fi for messaging applications to avoid paying for international SMS.
• Double-check the Number Format: To avoid formatting issues, dial the receiver’s US phone number accurately, including +1 at the beginning.
• Test Before Sending Important Messages: To make sure your recipient receives it, test your internet connection.
• Check the Recipient’s Time Zone: Consider the time zone differences between the US and UK to ensure you text at the appropriate time.

Texting the USA from the UK is simple once you know the right phone number format. You can use virtual numbers, traditional SMS carriers, or messaging apps for international texting. Traditional SMS carriers are quick but can be expensive, while messaging apps are free but require both parties to use the same app. Virtual phone numbers are suitable, especially for businesses that need frequent international texting, as they help you avoid high carrier fees.