I’m having trouble with sending mass SMS messages through Twilio via a backend workflow in Bubble. I’ve set up a backend API workflow that sends SMS messages to a list of users. This works perfectly for a single user but doesn’t seem to function as expected when trying to send to a list of users at once.
Here’s a summary of my setup:
I’ve created a backend workflow (send_sms_to_customer) that sends a text message via Twilio. This works fine when tested on one phone number.
I’m using the “Schedule API Workflow on a List” action to run send_sms_to_customer for a list of users, pulling in each user’s phone number dynamically.
I’ve ensured all user phone numbers are formatted correctly, and individual messages go through when tested.
I have also tried each items mobile number and first item mobile number
However, when I try to run the workflow for a list of users it doesn’t send at all.
What are the logs saying? Are they sending the message but not being delivered?!
If so, you might want to look into A2P regulations, as your messages might not get delivered due to compliance. If your sender account that you’re sending is registered and approved (means that you submitted brand and company info - EIN or DUNS), then the issue might me somewhere else.
Any unregistered traffic since August 2023 isn’t being sent but being charged. This is a whole rabbit hole.
I’ve read that started to apply in UK and don’t doubt that some countries require regulatory address (not recall the name now). Also, check geo sender (for calls and sms) to make sure it’s allowing your account or enable to send.
It matters the country you’re sending from and to where as well. Costs apply based on both.
How many are you sending at once? For bulk you should consider using a short code with Twilio and a messaging service (this and this guide has some helpful tdbits on bulk messaging.
How many are you trying to send at once? A regular Twilio number can only send one message per second.
Another alternative is using a service built for text blasts like slick text, they have an API as well so you should be able to make it happen through the API connector, though i haven’t used it myself.
In the dev mode i am trying to send to two people. but in the live version it is going to be about 100 people. But it works when i send to one person. According to twillos manual it should work. But will look in to short codes.
I found a solution the problem. it was the customer_phone. instead of doing do a search for users what you should is choose This User. By setting it to “This User,” you’re specifying that for each iteration (each user), Bubble should pass that user’s individual phone number to the backend workflow. otherwise bubble will not understand
