What is a Distribution List?

 Distribution List allows agents to send a message to multiple mobile numbers simultaneously. These lists can be named, saved, and reused to simplify group messaging.

However, it’s important to note that Unitel Voice’s primary function is one-to-one conversational messaging. To maintain real-time message delivery for live conversations, distribution list messages may experience delays during peak messaging times. This is due to "traffic shaping"—a queue management system used by carriers to prioritize conversational messages over bulk messaging.

Distribution List Limitations

The type of sending number determines the size of the distribution list. However, by default, Unitel Voice sets this limit to zero (0) to prevent unauthorized bulk messaging.

• To activate Distribution Lists, you must request permission. 
• Email us at support@unitelvoice.com to have this feature enabled.
• IMPORTANT NOTE: You must first have this feature enabled before you can use it.

How to View Your Distribution Lists

1. Click your Avatar (upper-right) and choose Settings.
   
2. Click Distribution Lists.

How to Add a New Distribution List

Option 1: Cut & Paste Method (Quick & Easy)

1. Click the New Distribution List button (or the Edit List page to update an existing list).
   
2. Scroll down to the bottom of the page
   
3. Paste mobile numbers into the cut-and-paste field at the bottom of the page.
   • Numbers must be in 11-digit format (e.g., 13095551212).
   • Do not use special characters ( ( ) - . , ) or spaces.
4. Check the box labeled “Add All New Phone Numbers to List” (Required).
5. Click Save.

Option 2: Manual Entry

1. Click the New Distribution List button.
   
2. Enter a name for your list.
   
   
3. Choose the "Add to Inbox"setting:
   • Yes → Outbound messages will appear in the Message Center as “Open” status.
   • No → Outbound messages will not appear in the Message Center.
4. Select end-users to include in the list.
   
5. If you want to add additional numbers that did not appear, type them in the "Cut & Paste Numbers" field.
   
6. Check the "Add All New Phone Numbers to List field (only if you added numbers in Step-5 above).
7. Click Save.

How to Edit a Distribution List

1. Go to the Distribution Lists page.
2. Find the list you want to modify.
3. Click Edit on the right-hand side.
4. Make your changes and click Save.

How to Send a Message Using a Distribution List

1. Go to Settings > Distribution Lists.
2. Find the list you want to send a message to.
3. Click +New Message on the right-hand side.
   
4. The recipient list will be pre-populated with your saved contacts.
5. Choose the phone number from which you want to send the message.
6. Type your message in the text box.
7. Click Submit, or to schedule for a later time.
   

Note: The date picker uses your computer’s time zone, not the Agent's profile time zone.

Previous messages sent via a Distribution List can be viewed at the bottom of the Compose Message page.

ⓘ Still confused? Having trouble?

Contact us at support@unitelvoice.com, call 855-888-6423 x2, or Chat with us online.

We're here to help!