RealPhoneValidation FTP Best Practices
FTP credentials are created on a per customer basis. To request access we require a support ticket so that we know the exact account to grant FTP access, as well as knowing which of our validation services you will be accessing on the FTP.
When using the FTP it is 100% required to follow the formatting instructions for the validation service you are using. Unlike the website, the FTP will NOT attempt to clean up your data. The FTP system automatically charges for each record, so failure to comply with the formatting may result in unwanted charges and unusable data. We do NOT offer refunds for negligence in following the formats requested.
Best practices when using the RealPhoneValidation FTP:
Review
Review the batch guidelines and documentation for the service you are using.
Test
Ensure you perform tests with small files, typically around five validations, to confirm compliance.
Limit connections
Limit your FTP connections to 1 for uploading a file & second for polling for completed files.
Close your connection
Ensure that you close your FTP connection after completing an upload or individual poll.
Submit and poll
Submit a file to your “incoming” folder, then poll for the base filename in the “outgoing” folder. Limit polling to checking once every 5-10 minutes.
File size
Keep file record sizes to no more than 500,000 per file. Break into smaller files if the amount exceeds the limit.
Processing order
To avoid extended processing time, wait until a file is completed before sending another. Otherwise, delays could be exponential.
Turnaround time
While the general turnaround rate will be ~40 validations per second, we utilize live telco networks that can experience delays. Additionally, there is an extra time required for compiling the results into a single file. Times will vary depending on the record size and number of validations submitted ahead of yours.
If using Do Not Call services
If using anything regarding the Do Not Call list, the TCPA states that you would have had to verify the number within 31 days of contacting. Otherwise, things can change, and you will get fined for a TCPA violation. So, only validate what you will call within those 31 days. Just scrubbing large lists at once may be a waste of money if you have to scrub the uncalled ones again after 31 days.
Failure to follow these best practices can result in NON-refundable charges, unusable data, and added delays.