Understanding Your SMS Delivery Reports: What Do the Statuses Really Mean?

If you have ever checked your Dexpatch delivery report and wondered why some messages say “Submitted” while others say “Rejected,” you aren’t alone. These reports are generated directly by the network operators (MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile) to tell us what happened to your message.

While we deliver your messages instantly, we don’t have direct control over these network-generated reports. Here is a simple guide to help you understand what your report is trying to tell you.

1. SUBMITTED: The Waiting Game

When you see Submitted, it means your message is sitting with the network operator, and we are awaiting a report from them.

  • Note: Some “Submitted” messages have already been delivered to the phone, but the report has not been updated yet.
  • Common Reason: The recipient’s phone might be switched off or temporarily out of signal range.

2. REJECTED or FAILED: The “No-Go” Zone

Rejected and Failed mean that the message is undeliverable.

  • Reasoning: This can happen for many reasons, ranging from number validity to other reasons best known to the network operator.
  • Action: Check if the number is still active or if you made a mistake while typing it.

3. DND-ST/1: The “Do Not Disturb” Shield

This is a common status in Nigeria. DND-ST/1 means the message was blocked by “Do-Not-Disturb” settings on other networks.

  • Why it happens: Network operators automatically block certain messages to protect users who have opted out of third-party SMS.

4. EXPIRED: Unidentified Subscriber

The Expired status generally means the message was sent to an Unidentified Subscriber.

  • Cause: This usually occurs when a SIM card has been inactive or disconnected from the network for a very long time.

How to Improve Your SMS Delivery Rates

Please note that these reports come directly from the network providers, and we do not have control over them. However, you can take action to ensure you aren’t wasting your credits.

If a specific number keeps showing FAILED, REJECTED, EXPIRED, or DND-ST/1, we recommend:

  1. Replace the number with a new, active one.
  2. Remove it completely from your contact list to save your credits for active numbers.

By keeping your contact list clean, you ensure that your business stays connected to real people instantly!

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