Q: cant receive two-steps verification code via sms

Apple ID security issues -

Account security issues almost always require you to speak directly to an Apple representative to securely establish your identity as the account holder. You can set it up so that Apple calls you, either immediately or at a time convenient to you.

1. Go to http://www.apple.com/support/appleid/

2. Choose Contact Support and click Contact Us

3. Choose Other Apple ID Topics and choose the appropriate topic for your issue (Security questions or password)

4. Choose, No Thanks, Continue

5. Choose the best method for you for contacting Apple

If you've already set up two step verification, Apple cannot help you.

See Frequently asked questions about two-step verification for Apple ID - Apple Support

Specifically this:

What if I lose or give away one of my trusted devices?

If you no longer have access to one of your devices, go to My Apple ID as soon as possible to remove that device from your list of trusted devices. That device can then no longer be used to help verify your identity.

What if I no longer have access to any of my trusted devices?

If you can't access any of your trusted devices, you can still access your account using your password and Recovery Key. You should then verify a new trusted device as soon as possible.

As I read his post, he is in the process of setting up 2-step verification and it is working out well.

I can see how it could be read that way, but it wouldn't change the answer, even if that were the case.  Two Step Verification removes Apple from the picture.  I suppose someone in Account Security could help interpret the documentation, but that'd be about it.  There's nothing Apple can do on their side for Two Step Verification problems.

During the setup, there is an option to resend the code.

Post setup, the OP would have to go to appleid.apple.com > manage your apple id > provide password and recovery key > click password security > add or remove trusted devices > add another phone number.

These are things Apple's phone support can advise of, but cannot control.

Edited.

It's not so clear cut.

I cannot get an SMS message from Apple, although anyone else in the world can send me one.  That rules out the two step verification.  I don't remember ever getting a "recovery key."  I set this up on my new iPhone somehow during the setup process. I was not aware I even enabled two step verification. l assume it happened as I followed prompts setting up the device.  I had to reset the phone due to errors, and then it "removed the iPhone as a trusted device."  I have two laptops and an iPad on this account - prior to setting up this iPhone.

Recovery stops being an option when you cannot get text messages - from Apple.