💸 Estimating SMS Messaging Costs in Bookboost
Introduction
Bookboost allows hotels to communicate with guests through multiple channels, including SMS. While SMS is a direct and effective communication tool, it comes with a usage-based cost model. Understanding how these costs are estimated helps hoteliers plan budgets more effectively and optimize communication strategies.
Main Concept: How SMS Costs Are Calculated
SMS costs in Bookboost are based on the number of messages sent. Unlike other messaging channels, SMS has a clear per-message pricing and can vary depending on how it is used—especially whether it's used reactively or as part of campaigns and automated journeys.
- Standard Rate: €0.11 per SMS message sent.
- A client sending 100 SMS per month will be charged €11.
Monitor number of SMS messages
- Monitor the number of messages sent in your Inbox (Messaging > Inbox Reports > Overview) + Campaigns (Campaigns > Campaign Reports > Campaigns).
Note: When calculating campaign costs, you need to consider the total number of messages attempted—regardless of whether they were successfully delivered or not—as failed messages are also counted and charged. In this example, the correct number of SMS messages is 31, not 17.
- Use this information to calculate or estimate your monthly SMS cost:
- Number of SMS sent × €0.11 = Total cost
Advanced Setup: Estimating SMS Cost Per Room
As mentioned, SMS costs per room can vary significantly depending on usage patterns. However, to give hoteliers a clearer idea of what to expect, we provide per-room cost estimates based on data collected from our clients between July 2024 and June 2025. This helps hotels better understand how their messaging activity translates into per-room costs.
- 💤 Reactive Use Only (No campaigns - The hotel is located in a region where SMS is not the primary method of communication):
- Cost per room is typically €0.10 to €0.20
- Example: Used for occasional confirmations or manual replies.
- 📢 Limited Campaign Use:
- Cost per room: €0.40
- For properties that rarely use SMS in campaigns and primarily rely on WhatsApp.
- 📊 Moderate Campaign Use:
- Cost per room: €0.80 to €0.90
- Hotels with active campaigns, but WhatsApp is still often preferred.
- 📬 SMS as Primary Channel (The hotel is located in a region where SMS is the primary method of communication):
- Cost per room: €1.30 to €1.60
- For clients using SMS as the main communication method across full journeys and campaigns.
These estimates are based on real usage data from existing Bookboost clients and can vary by occupancy rate, campaign frequency, and guest preferences.
Conclusion
SMS is a reliable and straightforward channel with transparent pricing: €0.11 per message. For budget planning, understanding your messaging behavior—whether reactive or campaign-based—will help you estimate your monthly charges per room. Whether you send a few SMS manually or rely on it for entire campaigns, Bookboost provides the flexibility to suit your communication style while offering a clear view on expected costs.
📱 Proper planning ensures effective communication with your guests—without surprises in your monthly bill.
Please contact us through the ‘Talk to Us’ on the left Menu in the platform or through the Bookboost Finance email at finance@bookboost.io if you have questions or need additional support.