Send a Radiogram

Use this page to prepare a National Traffic System radiogram. Radiograms are formal written messages passed by amateur radio operators for public service, training, and emergency communications.

What is a Radiogram?

A radiogram is a standardized message format used by the National Traffic System to move traffic accurately and efficiently by voice, CW, and digital modes.

When is it used?

Radiograms are used for greetings, welfare inquiries, public service, drills, and emergency communications when reliable message handling matters.

Before you send

Keep the message short, clear, and easy to copy. Avoid punctuation unless necessary, and use plain language whenever possible.

Message Precedences

PrecedenceAbbreviationUse
EmergencySpelled outLife-and-death urgency only
PriorityPImportant time-sensitive or official traffic
WelfareWHealth and welfare inquiries or advisories
RoutineRNormal everyday traffic

The precedence follows the message number. Example: 207R on CW, or Two Zero Seven Routine on phone.

Common ARL Numbered Messages

ARL numbered radiograms use standard text shortcuts to make message handling faster and more accurate.

Relief and Emergency Use

  • ARL ONE — Everyone safe here. Please don’t worry.
  • ARL TWO — Coming home as soon as possible.
  • ARL THREE — Am in _____ hospital. Receiving excellent care and recovering fine.
  • ARL FOUR — Only slight property damage here. Do not be concerned about disaster reports.
  • ARL FIVE — Am moving to new location. Send no further mail or communication. Will inform you of new address when relocated.
  • ARL SIX — Will contact you as soon as possible.
  • ARL TWELVE — Anxious to hear from you. No word in some time. Please contact me as soon as possible.
  • ARL THIRTEEN — Medical emergency situation exists here.
  • ARL FIFTEEN — Please advise your condition and what help is needed.
  • ARL NINETEEN — Request health and welfare report on _____.

Routine Use

  • ARL FIFTY — Greetings by Amateur Radio.
  • ARL FIFTY ONE — Greetings by Amateur Radio. This message is sent as a free public service by ham radio operators at _____. Am having a wonderful time.
  • ARL FIFTY TWO — Really enjoyed being with you. Looking forward to getting together again.
  • ARL FIFTY THREE — Received your _____. It’s appreciated; many thanks.
  • ARL FIFTY FOUR — Many thanks for your good wishes.
  • ARL FIFTY SIX — Congratulations on your _____, a most worthy and deserved achievement.
  • ARL FIFTY EIGHT — Have a wonderful time. Let us know when you return.
  • ARL SIXTY ONE — Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
  • ARL SIXTY FOUR — Arrived safely at _____.
  • ARL SIXTY EIGHT — Sorry to hear you are ill. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

You can expand these in the message text by using the ARL number in the proper radiogram format.

Tips for Writing a Good Radiogram
  • Keep the message short and clear.
  • Use simple words that are easy to copy.
  • Avoid punctuation unless it is required.
  • Write street addresses, names, and numbers carefully.
  • Double-check the phone number and signature before sending.
  • For routine greetings, ARL numbered texts can save time.

ARRL Radiogram Form

If the form does not appear below, use the button underneath to open it in a new window.

Need Help?

If you are new to radiograms or National Traffic System message handling, check into the Western District Net and ask for help. Operators will be glad to assist you with formatting, precedence, and routing.