The NTS format for a message is as follows:
The Preamble
First in the preamble is the message number. The message is numbered by the originating station and the same number remains with the message until it reaches it's destination. If you initiate the message at your station you will start with number 1 and continue numbering sequentially. Some people start with number 1 at the beginning of each month. If you don't initiate many messages you could start with number 1 at the beginning of each year. But remember to number each message that you initiate sequentially.
Second is the Precedence - Emergency, Priority, Welfare, and Routine. Basically all messages, except in times of emergency are Routine.
Third is the Handling instructions. This is not required but is sometimes used to request different methods of handling -
HXA--(Followed by number.) Collect landline delivery authorized by addressee within......miles. (If no number, authorization is unlimited.)
HXB--(Followed by number.) Cancel message if not delivered within ......hours of filing time; service originating station.
HXC--Report date and time of delivery to originating station.
HXD--Report to originating station the identity of station from which received, plus date and time. Report identity of station to which relayed, plus date and time, or if delivered report date, time and method of delivery.
HXE--Delivering station get reply from addressee, originate message back.
HXF--(Followed by number.) Hold delivery until ...... (date).
HXG--Delivery by mail or landline toll call not required. If toll or other expense involved, cancel message and service originating station.
Fourth is the originating station. This is the station that first formats the message and puts it into the traffic system.
Fifth is the check of the message. If you originate a message try to limit the word count to 25 words or less if possible. We will handle larger messages, but try to keep them under 25 words if you can. Never try to shorten a message if you are not the originating station.
Sixth is the place of origin of the message. It is usually, but not necessarily the location of the originating station.
Seventh is the time filed, which is optional, but would be the time of day that the message was first filed. Include time in UTC on emergency and priority messages.
Eighth is the date filed, which is the date that the message was originated, and put on the air – month and date, not year.
Next is the name and address of the recipient as complete as possible with phone number given last.