Call Us Now Toll Free!
Toll free numbers revolutionized the way companies conducted business. Without them, out-of-state customers had to pay long-distance charges to call companies outside of their local calling area. They allowed customers all over the country to call without having to pay the charge.
These phone numbers can be routed to any country in the world, so businesses can now operate internationally and not burden their customers with a high phone charge. They can also be directed to a cell phone.
It is easy to see why this would benefit a business; potential customers don’t lose anything by calling to inquire about a product or for assistance with a purchase. Some companies even have what are called “Vanity” numbers, which are numbers that spell out the name or description of their business. A plumber can have the number 1-800-1-ROOTER, and a pet food distributor could have the number 1-800-PETFOOD. These catchy numbers stick in people’s minds; the next time someone needs a plumber, they are likely to first think of 1-800-1-ROOTER.
1-800 numbers have become so popular that they now have 1-888, 1-877, and 1-866 numbers to keep up with the demand.
Call Home Now, Free!
Anyone can get a toll free number for any reason. Parents with family members scattered all over the country can get a one to make it more convenient (and affordable) for loved ones to phone home. It is also easier for anyone to call home in case of an emergency, like a son’s car breaking down on the road or a daughter going into labor. A 1-800 phone call is cheaper than using a pay phone or calling collect.
How To Set Up A 1-800 Number
You can obtain a 1-800number through most local phone companies, long distance carriers, or independent service providers. The advantage of using the same provider as your own phone service is that you would receive all of your charges on one bill. However, you might not be getting the best deal, so it pays to shop around first.
Like regular phone service, 1-800 number service comes with a variety of features and billing options. Some companies waive the monthly fee if you incur a certain minimum amount of charges each month. Some let you temporarily halt service. You will likely be presented with several packages, and you can choose the one that best serves your needs.
Stand Alone, or Follow Me?
You can get a number that sits still for you or moves when you do. A Stand-Alone number is a number that rings to one place, such as to a cell phone or to an outside company that you can call up to receive your messages.
A follow-me number is one that you can switch according to your needs. During the day you can have it ring to your office phone, and in the evening you can switch it to your cell phone or home phone. This is particularly useful if you are expecting an important phone call but can’t wait by the phone all day – you can switch it to your cell phone while you are commuting or running errands. You can even have your number switched to your hotel room while you are traveling!
If you think a toll free phone number would really make your life easier, call up a provider today (using their 1-800 number, of course) for more information.
By Alisa Elizabeth King Terry