When a text message fails, the carrier sends back an error code that explains why. List cleaning uses these codes to decide whether to clean a profile. This article lists the codes that clean a profile and what each one means.
You can see the codes behind any cleaned profile by clicking VIEW ERRORS on the Cleaned Profiles page. See Setting Up List Cleaning.
Hard bounce codes
Each of these is a permanent failure. One failure with any of these codes cleans the profile. The label in parentheses is what VIEW ERRORS shows.
- 3041 (Undeliverable): the number is on the carriers' list of deactivated numbers. The line has been shut off.
- 345 (Operator Errors): the number isn't registered with any wireless carrier that could be found. This can also happen with numbers from outside the United States and Canada.
- 566 (Operator Errors): the carrier is blocking the number from receiving short code messages, usually because the subscriber's account is suspended or restricted.
- 568 (Operator Errors): the line isn't set up to receive text messages.
- 569 (Operator Errors): the carrier has suspended the line.
- 629 (Handset Errors): the phone or line can't receive text messages, for example a landline or a device that isn't set up for texting.
- 573 (Handset Errors): the subscriber asked their carrier to block messages from your short code.
These codes apply to standard text messages (SMS).
About code 573
Code 573 means the subscriber chose to block your short code. Treat it like an opt-out: don't restore the profile or try to reach that number again from the same short code unless the subscriber opts in again.
Soft bounce codes
Each of these is a temporary or uncertain failure. One failure doesn't clean a profile. A profile is cleaned only after your Bounce count of soft bounces in a row. See How List Cleaning Works.
- 351 (User Errors): the carrier reported the number as an invalid destination. Carriers use this code for several reasons, some temporary and some not, so one failure isn't treated as final.
- 581 (Handset Errors): the subscriber's prepaid account is out of credit.
- 628 (Handset Errors): the phone couldn't be reached, for example because it was off or out of coverage.
- 810 (Operator Errors): the carrier accepted the message but reported that delivery failed.
- 811 (Handset Errors): the message expired before it reached the phone.
Like the hard bounce codes, these apply to standard text messages (SMS).
Codes that don't clean a profile
- Spam blocks (for example, 607): the carrier blocked that message as spam. That's about the message content, not the number, so the profile isn't cleaned.
- Picture message (MMS) failures: an MMS failure doesn't show whether the number can still receive text messages, so it doesn't clean the profile.
- Any other failure code not listed under hard bounce codes.
FAQ
Why does VIEW ERRORS show a code that isn't on this list?
For a soft bounce profile, VIEW ERRORS shows that profile's recent failed messages, which can include codes not listed here.
Can I add or remove codes for my account?
No. Mobile Commons maintains this list for all accounts.