Businesses looking to engage customers in the United States and Canada through text messaging have three main options: 10DLC, Toll-Free Numbers, and Short Codes, each with distinct features and use cases. 10DLC uses local numbers, providing a sense of locality and supporting personalized interactions, often used for alerts and two-way messaging. Toll-Free Numbers, identified by an 8XX prefix, are ideal for high-volume messaging and enterprise communications, offering the ability to integrate voice calls. Short Codes, which are 5-6 digit numbers, are used for high-throughput notifications with limited interactivity, suitable for campaigns requiring memorable and easily recognizable numbers. Factors such as message volume, cost, time to market, and user experience play crucial roles in choosing the best channel, with each option requiring registration and approval to ensure compliance with carrier standards. The choice ultimately depends on the specific needs of the business and the desired customer interaction, with solutions available to tailor the messaging experience accordingly.