If you’re just getting started with SMS and your subscriber list is still small—maybe just a few dozen people—you might be wondering: When is the right time to start sending campaigns? Is it worth it to send to a list that’s under 100? Under 500?

The short answer: yes—but only if you’ve built your list the right way, and you understand what to expect.

What’s the Minimum List Size Worth Sending To?

There’s no hard rule, but as a general guideline:

• If you have under 50 subscribers, we recommend focusing first on growing your list before sending frequent campaigns. Be sure to check out our extensive collection of articles on list growth!

• If you have 100–500+ subscribers, you can start sending occasional, targeted campaigns—especially around product launches, restocks, or seasonal offers.

• Once you cross 1,000+ subscribers, SMS becomes a consistent, high-ROI channel worth including in all major marketing moments.

At smaller list sizes, SMS is less about generating immediate revenue and more about creating a consistent presence and building early engagement with your best customers.

Early Campaign Strategy for Small Lists

If you’re working with a list under 500 subscribers:

• Focus on hyper-relevant, high-value messages. Think restocks, new drops, or loyalty offers.

• Consider exclusive access or early-bird promos to reward early opt-ins.

• Use campaigns to test tone, offers, and format—so you’re ready to scale when your list grows.

Growing Your List: Why It Matters

SMS is a volume-driven channel. Even with strong engagement, revenue potential grows with your subscriber count. Here’s how to build it faster:

1. Use a pop-up
Our built-in pop-up designer lets you collect both SMS and email, with drag-and-drop customization and mobile-friendly layout. Make sure you offer a clear incentive (e.g., 10% off, free shipping, or early access).

2. Add opt-in at checkout
Most shoppers will gladly check a box to receive order updates and offers—if you make it clear and simple.

3. Leverage social and email
Promote SMS sign-up across your other channels with tap-to-text links and QR codes. Early adopters often come from your most engaged audience segments.

4. Use a quiz-style opt-in with our OneText Pop-up
With our pop-up quiz feature, you can gather preferences and personalize your future messages—making subscribers more likely to convert and stick around.

You don’t need thousands of subscribers to start using SMS—but you do need a thoughtful strategy. Start small, send smart, and focus on list growth. With a well-built foundation, your early SMS efforts will pay off as your audience scales.