10 proven SMS flows for growth [tips & examples]

What are SMS flows? 

An SMS flow is an automated sequence of text messages triggered by customer behavior, specific dates, or other conditions. These text messaging workflows help businesses engage users at the right time, with the right message, without needing to send each message manually.  

You can welcome new subscribers, follow up on leads, or confirm appointments using SMS workflows. These automated text messages can improve efficiency and build trust with your audience. They are essential components of broader automation workflows that power modern digital marketing. 

Why SMS flows matter?

When discussing customer communication, few channels are as direct or effective as SMS. SMS messages consistently deliver industry-leading open rates, often exceeding 98%. Combined with high click-through rates, sending automated SMS messages is a fast and efficient way to deliver critical updates, promotional content, or personalized offers. That’s why businesses are increasingly relying on SMS workflows to automate key touchpoints across the customer journey.  

Here’s why SMS workflows are a cornerstone of modern customer experience: 

• Reach customers instantly via verified phone numbers 
• Build relationships with personalized, timely content 
• Increase customer satisfaction with consistent follow-up 
• Improve efficiency through centralized automation workflows 
• Drive ROI through integrated SMS marketing campaigns 

With the right SMS platform, brands can scale communications while preserving a human touch. Let’s look at the most effective types of SMS flows you can implement to drive business results. 

10 types of SMS flows 

Here are 10 proven SMS flows that leading brands use to build trust, increase engagement, and drive revenue. You can use each flow based on user behavior or timing. Doing so helps you stay relevant and responsive at every step of the customer journey. 

1. Welcome series SMS flow

First impressions matter and set the tone for all future interactions. A welcome message introduces new subscribers to your brand and often includes an incentive to encourage the first purchase. 

2. Abandoned cart SMS flow 

More than 70% of online carts are abandoned. You can lower this number by sending an automated text message flow that reminds shoppers of what they left behind and prompts them to complete their order (often with an added incentive).  

3. Post-purchase SMS flow

After a purchase, keep customers informed and engaged. This SMS flow includes order confirmations, tracking updates, and onboarding tips to reduce support inquiries and boost customer satisfaction. 

4. Winback SMS flow 

If a customer hasn’t interacted with your brand in a while, a winback sequence can reignite interest. Use it to share new products, time-sensitive offers, or loyalty rewards to build trust and encourage a return visit. 

5. Event reminder SMS flow

Event reminder SMS flows are perfect for appointments, webinars, or live events to keep your audience informed and reduce last-minute cancellations. Send them at strategic times: usually 24 hours and one hour before the event.

6. Customer feedback flow

Understanding how your customers feel is key to delivering better experiences. These flows automatically request feedback after a purchase or support interaction. 

7. Lead nurture SMS flow 

This flow is ideal for B2B and high-consideration purchases. Use it to share resources, FAQs, and meeting invites, helping leads make informed decisions faster. 

8. Birthday & anniversary SMS flow 

Celebrating milestones makes customers feel valued. Whether it’s a birthday, sign-up anniversary, or first purchase date, these personalized automated text messages are a low-effort, high-reward way to build relationships. 

9. Flash sale alert flow 

Flash sale flows are designed for speed and impact. When you have limited inventory, SMS flows can help you reach customers instantly and drive fast action. 

10. Order confirmation & shipping flow 

Shipping flows reassure customers with timely updates, confirm purchases, and provide tracking links, which contribute to a smoother, more transparent buying experience.

How to set up SMS flows with Infobip?

Infobip’s SMS platform, powered by Moments, lets you create automated SMS workflows that integrate seamlessly with your broader automation workflows. 

Create SMS flows with Infobip 

1. Log into Moments from your Infobip dashboard. 
2. Create a flow and choose SMS as the main channel. 
3. Define your trigger, such as new sign-up or abandoned cart. 
4. Add conditions and delays to control timing and personalization. 
5. Build your message content, using dynamic fields like name or product. 
6. Test your SMS flow and ensure delivery to the correct phone numbers. 
7. Activate and monitor the flow using real-time analytics. 

Infobip features that help you succeed 

• Visual drag-and-drop builder 
• Real-time audience segmentation 
• Omnichannel integration (email, chat, push, and more)
• Detailed analytics dashboards with click-through rate and delivery metrics
•  Flexible API for scalable SMS marketing campaigns 

Whether you’re setting up SMS workflows for sales, support, or promotions, Infobip’s platform lets you send SMS messages that are personalized, timely, and optimized for conversion, directly from within your journey flow. 

Start building smarter SMS flows today 

SMS flows are more than just a tactic. They’re a strategic asset for any business looking to: 

• build trust 
• improve customer communication  
• boost ROI through automation

From first impressions to long-term loyalty, SMS workflows help you stay connected, relevant, and top of mind. 

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