How to Add SMS to Your Automated Flows: Klaviyo SMS in Flows Made Simple

Combining email and SMS in your automated flows can significantly boost engagement and conversion rates. With Klaviyo SMS in flows, you can create a seamless multi-channel experience, reaching your audience with timely and personalized messages. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about adding SMS to your Klaviyo flows, including step-by-step instructions, best practices, and advanced tips.

What is Klaviyo SMS in Flows?

Klaviyo SMS in flows allows you to add text messages to your existing email automation sequences. This feature enables e-commerce brands to enhance their marketing strategy by combining SMS and email in Klaviyo, delivering messages through multiple channels based on customer behavior and preferences.

How to Add SMS to Your Automated Flows in Klaviyo: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Ensure SMS is Enabled in Your Klaviyo Account

1. Log in to your Klaviyo account.

2. Go to Account > Settings > SMS.

3. Verify that your SMS settings are enabled and that you have obtained consent from your subscribers to receive text messages.

   
   

Step 2: Create or Select an Existing Flow

1. Navigate to Flows from the left-hand menu.

2. You can either create a new flow by clicking Create Flow or choose an existing flow to add SMS to.

   
   

Step 3: Add an SMS Message to the Flow

1. Drag the SMS action from the sidebar into your flow.

2. Place the SMS block at the desired point in the sequence, either before, after, or between email actions.

3. Configure the SMS settings:

   • Recipient Filter: Ensure the message is only sent to subscribers with SMS consent.

   • Smart Sending: Toggle on to avoid over-messaging.

     
     

Step 4: Craft Your SMS Message

1. Click the Edit button on the SMS action block.

2. Write a clear and concise message, ideally under 160 characters to avoid splitting into multiple messages.

3. Use dynamic fields such as {{ first_name }} or {{ product_name }} to personalize the text.

4. Add a strong Call to Action (CTA) with a shortened URL if needed.

   
   

Step 5: Add Conditional Splits for SMS and Email Segmentation

1. Use Conditional Splits to segment your flow:

   • Example: Add a condition to send an SMS only if the email was not opened within a specific timeframe.

   • Set the split as If opened email > No, then trigger the SMS action.

     
     

Step 6: Configure Time Delays and Testing

1. Add Time Delays between messages to avoid overwhelming your audience.

2. Test your flow using Klaviyo’s Preview and Test feature to ensure the SMS is sent correctly.

   
   

Step 7: Activate Your SMS-Enhanced Flow

1. Double-check all configurations.

2. Set the flow status to Live to start sending SMS as part of your automation.

   
   

Examples of Automated SMS in Klaviyo

1. Abandoned Cart Flow with SMS Follow-Up

• Email 1: Sent 1 hour after cart abandonment.

• SMS: Sent 24 hours later if the cart is still not recovered. Include a reminder and a discount code.

  
  

2. Welcome Series Flow with SMS Greeting

• Email 1: Welcomes the subscriber.

• SMS: Sends a quick thank you and a link to the welcome discount.

  
  

3. Winback Flow with SMS Prompt

• Email: Offers a discount to re-engage lapsed customers.

• SMS: A reminder message if the email was not opened within 3 days.

  
  

Best Practices for Using Klaviyo SMS in Flows

1. Keep SMS Messages Short and Actionable

Use clear and direct language with a strong CTA. Avoid overly long messages that might be cut off or create a poor user experience.

2. Use Smart Sending to Avoid Message Fatigue

Enable Smart Sending in Klaviyo to prevent subscribers from receiving too many messages in a short period.

3. Segment Your Audience Effectively

Use Conditional Splits to ensure only the right contacts receive SMS messages, such as those who have not engaged with your emails.

4. Monitor and Optimize Your Flow Performance

Review analytics for your flows, such as:

• Open Rates for emails

• Click-Through Rates (CTR) for SMS

• Conversion Rates for the entire flow

  
  

5. Respect SMS Marketing Regulations

Ensure compliance with TCPA and GDPR by only messaging subscribers who have explicitly opted in to receive SMS communications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Automated SMS in Klaviyo

• Over-messaging: Avoid sending SMS too frequently to prevent opt-outs.

  
  

• Ignoring Personalization: Personalized messages have significantly higher engagement rates.

  
  

• Not Testing Your Flows: Always preview and test SMS messages to avoid errors.

  
  

Conclusion: Enhance Your Marketing Strategy with Klaviyo SMS in Flows

Incorporating Klaviyo SMS in flows is a powerful way to boost engagement and drive conversions. By following the detailed steps and best practices outlined in this guide, you can create a seamless experience that keeps your brand top of mind for your audience.

📩 If your email and SMS program is underperforming and you’re unsure how to optimize your flows, let’s talk.

At Dispatch, we help brands maximize revenue from email & SMS without damaging subscriber engagement.

👉 Connect with Dispatch today to optimize your email and SMS marketing strategy.