Everything You Need to Know About Klaviyo SMS Marketing

The Phone Obsession

The average Brit checks their phone 96 times a day (yes, really!). We live with our phones constantly within reach, and it’s no surprise that SMS marketing is one of the most effective channels for brands looking to reach their customers where they already are. With open rates between 90-99%, SMS marketing is an absolute powerhouse.

But here’s the kicker: SMS isn’t meant to replace email - it’s meant to work alongside it. For eCommerce brands, combining email and SMS marketing isn’t just smart; it’s essential. And Klaviyo offers the perfect solution.

Why Klaviyo for SMS Marketing is the One?

Klaviyo isn’t just an SMS platform; it’s an all-in-one marketing solution that seamlessly integrates SMS with email, simplifying the entire process for brands. Here’s why it stands out:

1. Seamless Integration
   Klaviyo syncs effortlessly with major eCommerce platforms like Shopify, Magento, and WooCommerce, as well as others like Salesforce and PrestaShop. With over 300 integrations, from shipping systems to loyalty programs, Klaviyo ensures brands have all their data in one place.

2. Built for eCommerce
   Unlike generic marketing platforms, Klaviyo’s features are designed specifically for eCommerce. That means everything - every feature and integration - caters to growing online brands.

3. Comprehensive Feature Set
   The power of Klaviyo lies in its ability to combine SMS and email marketing into a single, functional platform. It offers more advanced features than other SMS tools, making it the go-to choice for eCommerce brands looking to scale.

Instant Integrations

Whether you're using a big-name platform like Shopify or a custom-built tech stack, Klaviyo can connect it all via its APIs. With 300+ apps and platforms supported, brands gain access to real-time and historical customer data. This seamless integration lets brands create campaigns based on the most up-to-date information - ideal for keeping your finger on the pulse of your customers.

Almost Unlimited Personalisation

Forget boring, generic texts. Klaviyo lets you get super specific. With access to over 200 built-in integrations and unlimited data importing, brands can send ultra-targeted SMS campaigns that align with customer behaviour. Every message can be tailored to the customer's shopping history, preferences, and even predicted future actions.

Predictive Text Messaging

Klaviyo’s AI digs into your customer’s profile to create tailored messages that fit their buyer’s journey. It looks at everything - shopping history, past behaviours, and predicted responses - to craft messages that feel human and personal. This means your SMS campaigns feel less like marketing and more like real conversations.

Two-Way Conversations

With Klaviyo, SMS marketing isn’t just about blasting out messages; it’s about engaging in real, two-way conversations. Customers can text back, and brands can respond instantly, turning campaigns into interactions. This builds stronger customer relationships and gives immediate support when needed. Plus, branded contact cards make it clear who the customer is talking to, enhancing trust.

Frictionless Opt-Ins for SMS

Growing your SMS list should be easy, and Klaviyo ensures that. From multi-step forms and click-to-text banners to checkout consent options, brands have multiple ways to capture customer interest without friction. With a custom form builder, you can also create opt-in forms that match your brand’s look and feel.

A/B Testing of SMS Campaigns

Stop guessing what works and start knowing. Klaviyo’s A/B testing tools let brands test different messages, layouts, emojis, send times - you name it. By figuring out which combinations resonate most, you can refine your SMS strategy and boost engagement rates.

Comprehensive Reporting and Analytics

Klaviyo’s reporting capabilities go beyond the basics. By integrating SMS and email, the platform offers a side-by-side view of campaign performance, so brands can see which channel is driving revenue and make informed decisions. From subscriber growth reports to cross-channel performance, you get a full picture of your marketing efforts.

SMS Compliance Made Simple

Compliance isn’t fun, but it’s necessary. Klaviyo takes the headache out of it with built-in compliance tools like opt-in consent language and default quiet hours. This ensures that your brand stays on the right side of GDPR regulations and that messages only go to those who have opted in.

Toll-Free and Short Codes for Scalability

Klaviyo offers toll-free numbers and short codes for high-volume senders, allowing brands to scale without extra cost. As your business grows, Klaviyo also offers the option for dedicated or vanity short codes for enhanced branding.

Bonus: How To Set Up Your First Klaviyo SMS Campaign:

1. Start with Compliance
   Head to your Klaviyo dashboard and navigate to Account > Settings > SMS. Make sure your customers have opted in for SMS content. Set up workflows based on different triggers - like one-time sends, customer actions, or ongoing automated messages.

2. Choose Campaign Details
   Under the Campaigns tab, name your campaign and select SMS. You’ll find options that let you customise everything based on your goals and audience.

3. Add and Configure SMS Content
   Use the Visual Flow Builder to integrate SMS campaigns. Drag and drop your SMS action, then hit ‘Configure Content’ to draft your message. Ensure it aligns with compliance standards.

4. Check Compliance Status
   Different regions have various rules, so make sure your SMS campaign doesn’t breach any local regulations using Klaviyo’s compliance checklists.

5. Set Up SMS Flows
   Space out your SMS and email combinations strategically using dynamic coupons and time-based sends. With Klaviyo’s intuitive layout, you can easily manage both SMS and email in a side-by-side view.

6. Review and Schedule
   Preview and schedule your campaign using Klaviyo’s engagement tracks. Choose optimal send times based on past engagement metrics to maximise results.