How to run a successful flash sale using only SMS and RCS

Why SMS and RCS are perfect for flash sales

Flash sales are built on urgency. You’re offering significant discounts for a short period, hoping to encourage fast action. That’s where SMS and RCS come in.

• SMS marketing messages reach people directly on their mobile phones.
• RCS (rich communication services) adds more visual and interactive elements to your texts—perfect for showcasing deals or offering discounts.
• Open rates for sms campaigns can reach up to 98%, far surpassing email marketing.

With features like shipping notifications, appointment reminders, promo codes, and early access, SMS marketing becomes a powerful tool to support your marketing strategy and customer journey.

Step-by-step guide to running a flash sale using SMS and RCS

1. Set clear goals and identify your audience

Before you hit send, determine what you want to achieve—boost revenue, attract customers, clear inventory, or build customer loyalty. Then define your target audience: Are you messaging new subscribers, loyal buyers, or a segment interested in specific products?

2. Choose the right sms marketing software

To ensure high delivery and response rates, pick SMS marketing services that support RCS, enable segmentation, and comply with regulations. The right SMS marketing software also lets you personalize your messages and track performance in real time.

3. Craft attention-grabbing and personalized messages

Keep your sms messages concise, but compelling. Use urgency-driven language like:

• “24-hour flash sale – 40% off all items!”
• “Free shipping ends tonight! Click to shop now.”
• “Exclusive deal for you – use code TXT40 at checkout.”

Avoid sending the same message to everyone. Use customer data to send personalized and relevant messages that resonate with specific groups.

4. Offer irresistible incentives

Your offer should stand out—significantly reduced prices, offering free shipping, or a coupon code for early access. Take inspiration from flash sale examples by top retailers who use great deals to create buzz and drive customer experience.

5. Schedule and time your campaign wisely

Timing matters. Align your sms campaigns with upcoming events like holidays or black friday flash sales. Consider time zones and user behavior people tend to check their phones in the morning, during lunch breaks, or after work.

6. Integrate opt-in and opt-out options

Always get customer consent before sending promotional messages. Use welcome messages and clear opt-in methods like Google Forms or checkout tick-boxes. Make opt-outs easy to maintain trust and avoid spam complaints.

7. Test and optimize your messages

A/B test your messages try different lengths, CTAs, and incentives. Monitor which messages lead to quick purchases, higher engagement, or better conversion rates. Use these insights to refine your next flash sale.

Best practices to keep in mind

• Set expectations early by informing customers about sales frequency.
• Keep your messages short and clear, especially for mobile devices.
• Use promo codes or exclusive deals to reward sms subscribers.
• Combine flash sales with loyalty programs to encourage repeat purchases.
• Don’t over-message. Focus on timing and relevance to avoid opt-outs.

Examples of successful sms flash sales

• A small business offering early access to VIP customers via text messages saw a 40% increase in sales.
• A beauty brand sent a discount code with a countdown timer using RCS, resulting in a 3x boost in response rates.
• A home goods store promoted their bed bath clearance items with limited-time texts, driving major in-store foot traffic.

Conclusion

Running a successful flash sale using only SMS and RCS is not just possible, it’s a mobile marketing strategy that’s fast, direct, and highly effective. With careful planning, personalized messages, and the right tools, you can drive sales, improve the customer experience, and grow your sms subscriber base. So get your offer ready, write a strong message, and get ready to hit send.

Need help setting up your next flash sale?
Get in touch with Atlas Communication to explore smart SMS marketing strategies tailored to your goals.