To provide full transparency into your campaign performance, the Cequens Console categorizes every message with a specific delivery status. Understanding these statuses helps you distinguish between successful transmission and actual handset delivery.


1. Sent (Awaiting Delivery Receipt)

This status indicates that your message has been successfully processed by our platform and forwarded to the mobile network operator.

Important Note: A "Sent" status does not guarantee delivery to the handset. It means the message is currently in transit, and we are awaiting a delivery receipt (DLR) from the operator. Common reasons for a message remaining in this state include:

  • Network Signal: The recipient's device is in an area with poor or no network coverage.

  • Device Status: The recipient's phone is switched off during the initial send or during subsequent retry attempts by the operator.

  • Hardware Issues: There is a technical issue with the recipient’s handset or SIM card connectivity.

2. Delivered

This is the final successful state for a message. It confirms that the SMS has been successfully received by the intended recipient's handset.

3. Undelivered

This status is returned when the message fails to reach the intended handset. This can occur due to various reasons, such as permanent roaming restrictions, low coverage, switched off, invalid numbers, or carrier-level blocks.

4. Expired

An "Expired" status occurs when a message is successfully sent to the operator but cannot be delivered within the designated retry window.

  • Retrial Mechanism: Operators typically follow a retry protocol (often lasting up to 48 hours) to attempt delivery.

  • Cause: If the recipient remains out of coverage or their phone stays switched off for the entire duration of the retrial period, the delivery receipt will eventually expire.