DLT registration

What is the difference between a header and a template?

Updated 25 October 2026 · 1 min read

Quick answer

A header (sender ID) is the short name customers see as the sender, such as JD-BSMSIN-S. A template is the fixed message text you register, with {#var#} for the parts that change.

Header Template
What it is Sender name Message text
Example BSMSIN Dear {#var#}, your order {#var#} is shipped. - BSMSIN
Format 6 letters (service/transactional), numeric for promotional Fixed text plus {#var#}
How many Usually a few per business One per message type

What the letters around a header mean

The prefix, such as JD or VM, shows the operator and circle. The suffix -P, -S, -T or -G shows whether the message is promotional, service, transactional or government. Read SMS header meaning.

Common mistakes

  • Choosing a header that does not represent your brand. Generic words are usually rejected.
  • Linking a template to the wrong header on the DLT portal.

More questions

How many characters can a header have?

Service and transactional headers use 6 letters, such as BSMSIN. Promotional headers are numeric and usually assigned by the portal.

Can one header have many templates?

Yes. You can link many templates to one header, for example order, delivery and payment messages.

Can I change my header later?

You can register a new header on your DLT portal at any time. Existing templates must then be linked to the new header.

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