Numbering of short message services (SMS)

Numbering of short message services means numbers by means of which text messages are routed from mobile phones to short message services. Provisions on numbering of short message services are included in the Regulation on Numbering in a Public Telephone Network (FICORA 32). Provisions on classification of short message services in barring categories are incorporated in the Regulation on Barring Categories for Telecommunications (FICORA 35).

The user applies for the number from FICORA. Before the user submits the application he or she must provide information about how many numbers are needed and the contents of the intended service with sufficient accuracy so that the service can be classified and numbered according to provisions. Further information about the number classification is available in FICORA's regulation 35 and on Teleforum's website.

FICORA merely grants a user a right to use the short message service number. In addition, a user must agree with the operator on the adoption of the number, services to be connected to the number and opening of the service. The short message service number will be the same in all public land mobile networks.

FICORA grants users numbers beginning with 12, 13, 16, 17 and 18 on application. For the time being, the granted numbers may only begin with 121-126, 131-135, 161-165, 169, 171-173, 177-179 and 181-185. The numbers have usually 5 digits (e.g. 12235) except for numbers that begin with 126, 169, 173, 177, 178 and 179, which have 6 digits (e.g. 126255 and 173031).

Numbers beginning with 100 and 140-155 are operator-specific which the operator in question can use for services provided to its own customers. FICORA does not grant these numbers.

* Numbers beginning with 169, 177 and 178 may be used only for services falling within the scope of the Finnish payment services act (290/2010).

Ficora´s letter 6.9.2010: Applying for payment service numbers, short message service numbers [PDF, 52 KB]

In case the user wishes to withdraw the right to use a number, the user must send a freely formulated and signed notification about it to FICORA. Any changes to contact information must also be notified.

Users can apply for the short message service numbers by sending e-mail to
lyhytsanoma.numerot(at)ficora.fi or by filling in the application form.

The application must include the following details:

• primary and secondary alternative for the number
• applicant's contact information (name, phone number and address of the contact person)
• applicant's Business ID and invoicing address for the numbering fee

An annual fee is collected for the granted short message service numbers in accordance with the Decree of the Ministry of Transport and Communications.