Feature Spotlight

Schedule SMS Directly From Google Sheets

Queue messages to be sent at the exact perfect second. No need to keep your spreadsheet open or computer running.

1How the formula works

Sheet SMS registers a custom Google Sheets formula called =SCHEDULESMS(). Just like any other spreadsheet formula, it updates automatically and runs on our secure AWS cloud servers.

Formula Syntax

// Structure:

=SCHEDULESMS(message, phone_number, date, time)

// Real Example:

=SCHEDULESMS("Hi John, your reminder!", "+14155550199", "12/25/2026", "09:00")

Argument	Type	Description
message	String / Cell Ref	The text content of the SMS. Can reference another cell (e.g. `A2`).
phone_number	String / Cell Ref	The destination number, starting with `+` and country code (e.g. `"+14155550199"`).
date	String / Date Ref	The date to send on. Format: `MM/DD/YYYY` or `DD/MM/YYYY` depending on sheet settings.
time	String / Time Ref	The exact time in 24h format (e.g. `"14:30"` for 2:30 PM).

Critical: Timezone Alignment

Your messages are sent according to the timezone of your Google Sheet, NOT your physical computer location. To make sure your scheduled SMS goes out at the correct local hour, verify your Google Sheet settings:

Click File > Settings inside Google Sheets.
Ensure the Time zone parameter is set to your preferred zone.
Save and refresh the formulas to ensure dates align.

2Why schedule messages?

Perfect Timing

Reach your recipients when they are most likely to read. Avoid sending texts during late nights or early mornings.

Automated Triggers

Write columns of upcoming reminders. When a formula triggers, the SMS queues automatically. Set it and forget it.

Self-Cleaning Queue

You can easily see the status of pending messages on your website calendar, and cancel or edit them right up to the minute they send.

3Step-by-Step Guide

Enable Sheet SMS

Open your sheet and go to Extensions > Sheet SMS > Start. Make sure you have active credits.

Enter your Columns

Create columns for Message, Phone Number, Send Date (Format: MM/DD/YYYY), and Send Time (Format: HH:MM).

Add the SCHEDULESMS formula

In column E, write: =SCHEDULESMS(A2, B2, C2, D2). Press Enter. The cell will update with a scheduled confirmation and message ID!

Scheduling FAQ

Can I cancel a scheduled message?

Yes! Head to your Dashboard, click on the Calendar tab or the Message History tab. You will see a list of scheduled messages. Simply click the delete or trash icon to cancel.

Are credits charged when scheduled, or when sent?

Credits are validated and temporarily reserved when you schedule the formula to ensure your balance supports the send. If you cancel the message before the scheduled send time, your credits are immediately restored.

What happens if my spreadsheet is closed?

Once the formula is entered, the scheduled task is securely uploaded to our cloud server. You can close Google Sheets, shut down your computer, or go completely offline. The message will still send exactly on time.

Can I schedule recurring text messages?

Yes! Check out our Recurring SMS Sender Tool or follow our guidelines for setting up recurring triggers using Google Sheets macros.