Introduction

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to activate SMS messaging add-ons in ServiceBox, detailing the process of selecting a plan, understanding the messaging limits, and setting up SMS templates for customer notifications. This guide is intended for ServiceBox users who wish to enhance their customer communication through the use of SMS notifications for 'Day Before' and 'En Route' updates.


Activating SMS Messaging Add-Ons

To activate SMS messaging add-ons in ServiceBox, follow these steps:

  • Navigate to the "Settings" in your ServiceBox dashboard.
  • Click on the "Plan" tab
  • Click on "Add-Ons" section.
  • Select the "SMS Messaging" option.
  • Choose the plan type you wish to subscribe to. ServiceBox currently offers an SMS 500 plan, which includes up to 500 SMS messages per month for an additional charge. For instance, as shown in the screenshot below, selecting the SMS Messaging add on with an SMS 500 plan would result in an extra monthly charge of $10.  This add on includes up to 500 SMS per month. If users exceed this limit, additional charges of $0.03 will apply per message.


Please keep in mind the associated costs when opting for SMS notification in ServiceBox.   




Understanding SMS Plan Limits and Charges

Upon activation of the SMS messaging add-on, users will have a monthly limit of SMS messages they can send to their customers. If users exceed this limit, additional charges will apply. For detailed information on pricing and overage charges, users are encouraged to check the helpdesk or contact ServiceBox support staff directly.


Using SMS Messaging in ServiceBox

Once the SMS messaging add-on is activated, it can be used in the following ways:

  • "En Route Notifications": Set up an SMS template for 'En Route' notifications to inform customers when a technician is on their way.
  • "Day Before Notifications": Configure an SMS template for 'Day Before' reminders to alert customers about upcoming appointments or services.


Setting Up SMS Templates

To create SMS templates for 'Day Before' and 'En Route' notifications:

  • Go to Settings > Work Order > "En Route Setup" or "Day Before Setup".
  • Enter the desired message in the template field. This message will be sent to customers as per the selected notification type.
  • Click on "Save"



Work Order Notifications

In the work order screen:

  • You will find options for "Send Day Before Notification SMS" and "Send En Route Notification SMS".



  • Select the appropriate notification type to trigger an SMS.
  • Select the recipient of the SMS message. Ensure the customer's mobile number is entered or saved under the customer profile, job site, or contacts. You can also enter a new number if necessary.



Important Notes

  • SMS notifications will not be sent if the mobile number is not selected/entered in the "Send Day Before Notification SMS" field or "Send En Route Notification SMS".
  • The SMS notification process is triggered when a technician is scheduled for a service.
  • The default SMS template set in the work order settings will be used for sending messages to customers.
  • Service Box primarily offers SMS capabilities for Day Before and En Route notifications. These are the two crucial options where Service Box sends SMS to customers. Without these selections, there are currently no other options available for sending SMS to client's customers.


Conclusion

The SMS messaging add-on in ServiceBox is a powerful tool for improving customer communication by providing timely 'Day Before' and 'En Route' notifications via text messages. By following the steps outlined in this article, ServiceBox users can effectively set up and manage this feature to enhance their service experience.


For further assistance or inquiries, reach out to the dedicated support team at [email protected]