Send SMS from Web Forms
TL;DR:
- Connect web forms to SMS services using Zapier for instant notifications
- Works with most platforms including Squarespace 7.1 and Webflow
- Perfect for confirmations, alerts, and thank-you messages
- Test your setup before going live to avoid delivery issues
Setting up SMS alerts from web forms makes your website more responsive and keeps users engaged. When someone fills out a contact form, booking request, or newsletter signup, they can get an instant SMS confirmation.
This works particularly well for time-sensitive submissions like appointment bookings or event registrations where immediate acknowledgment matters.
Choose Your Platform and SMS Service
Most modern form platforms work with SMS integrations. Squarespace 7.1 forms connect easily through Zapier, as do Webflow forms and most WordPress contact forms.
For the SMS side, you'll need a service that handles bulk messaging. QuickSMS is a solid choice that integrates well with automation tools and offers reliable delivery rates.
The key is making sure both your form platform and SMS service work with Zapier, which acts as the bridge between them.
Setting Up the Connection
Start by creating a Zapier account if you don't have one. You'll create what Zapier calls a "Zap" – basically a rule that says "when this happens, do that."
Connect your form platform first. For Squarespace 7.1, you'll authenticate your site and select which form triggers the automation. Webflow users can do the same with their form submissions.
Next, add your SMS service as the action step. You'll need your SMS provider's API credentials, which they'll give you when you sign up.
Set up the message content using data from the form. You can pull in the person's name, phone number, or any other field they filled out to personalise the SMS.
Testing Your Setup
Before going live, submit a test form entry yourself. Check that the SMS arrives quickly and contains the right information.
Common issues include phone number formatting problems or messages getting caught in spam filters. Most SMS services let you see delivery reports, so check these if messages aren't arriving.
If you're using Squarespace 7.0, note that form integrations work differently and may need additional steps through the legacy form system.
FAQs
Can I send SMS from any web form platform?
Most platforms work if they integrate with Zapier or have their own SMS capabilities. Squarespace 7.1, Webflow, and WordPress all support this through various methods.
Are there limits on SMS sending?
Yes, this depends on your SMS provider's plan. Most charge per message sent, so factor this into your budget if you expect high form volumes.
Can I customise the SMS content?
Absolutely. You can include form data like names, phone numbers, or submission details to make messages more personal and useful.
What happens if the SMS fails to send?
Good automation tools will retry failed sends and log errors. Set up email notifications so you know if there are delivery problems.
Jargon Buster
Zapier – Automation tool that connects different apps and services without coding
API – Application Programming Interface, lets different software systems talk to each other
SMS Gateway – Service that handles sending text messages from web applications
Webhook – Method for one system to notify another when something happens
Wrap-up
Connecting web forms to SMS services creates a more responsive user experience and helps with immediate follow-up. The setup takes a bit of initial configuration, but once running, it handles customer communication automatically.
This approach works especially well for businesses that need quick response times or want to stand out with instant acknowledgment of form submissions.
Learn about QuickSMS https://www.quicksms.com/