How to Get an 800 Number For Your Business?

In simple terms, an 800 number is a toll-free number where the caller doesn’t have to pay a single penny for a call, as the receiver bears the cost.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) controls toll-free numbers rules, but they do not assign it. Likewise, Somos, Inc. maintains these numbers’ registry database and permits other Responsible Organizations (like VoIP providers) to assign them.

Since its inception in January 1966, 800 numbers have been thoroughly in practice. While many companies use it for their customer support/care or helpline department, some use it as their primary number.

Due to its increasing demand, other toll-free numbers have been introduced, such as 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, and 833.

Wondering how much does an 800 number cost? Well, the prices vary according to the service providers from where you get your number. It can range from $12/month to $19/month.

An 800 number works by routing calls through telephone carriers on different levels (local and national) to provide a free call service to the callers.

Here’s how it works:
 

1. A customer dials an 800 number.
2. The call is sent to their local telephone company, which inquires about the SMS/800 database of the business responsible for paying the call charge.
3. The local telephone company again routes the call to a suitable long-distance telephone company, which directs the call to the desired firm’s local telephone company.
4. Finally, the local telephone company connects the recipient with the caller.
    

Though it looks extensive, everything happens in less than 3 seconds.

800 number can be categorized into three groups: local, international, and vanity.

Domestic: Domestic or a local toll-free number, allows to create a sense of community connection. Only people from the same country can call a domestic toll-free number.

International: If your company has an international reach and customers in multiple nations, these numbers allow calling freely, regardless of borders.

Vanity: It is a special type of 800 numbers with some alphabetic characters. Vanity numbers are not associated with a region but a company. Example, (1-800-COKE.)
 

From selecting a reliable provider to getting an 800 number, there are only a few steps in general.

Initially, you have to decide from where you want an 800 number, either from a traditional telephone carrier or a VoIP provider, where you get multiple features like call recording and forwarding.

Basically, if you’re a growing business, you should go for a VoIP provider as they mostly include business communication features that are fruitful for a company.

After settling on a service provider, provide your personal information, including name, business address, type of business, and other necessary card details for billing purposes. Furthermore, pick an appropriate subscription plan fitting for your business.

After signing up for your account, the final step is selecting an 800 number. Since 800 numbers are limited, it is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Try to have a number that is easy for the consumers to remember. Or customize your toll-free number to highlight your business. For example, if your business sells beauty products, you can get 1-800-MAKEUP.

1-800 number helps expand your business nationwide and improve credibility and trustworthiness among customers by offering them a free way to call you.
 

1. Business expansion: Using an 800 number for your business, you can have a nationwide presence since it doesn’t have a specific area code. So, people from any part of the country can call you for your services.
    
2. Enhancement of credibility: Since not all companies have a toll-free number, if you have one, people will perceive your company as reputable, attracting more clients.
    
3. Suitable for international customers: Significant for global brands, multinational clientele can call without worrying about hefty international charges.
    
4. Easy to remember: Let’s say you are a pizza restaurant. If your toll-free number to place an order is 1-800-PIZZA, then people would not have a hard time memorizing it. So, getting an 800 vanity number associated with your company is always better.
    
5. Increase the effectiveness of the marketing campaign: As per reports, vanity numbers can greatly increase call rates compared to traditional numbers: 84% for print ads and billboards, 20% for online advertisements, and 58% for TV and radio commercials.

An 800 number is a toll-free number. It allows callers to connect to a business without bothering about calling costs. You can get an 800 number for business from a regular telecom carrier or a VoIP service provider. It is better to get your toll-free number from a reliable VoIP provider, as they often come with additional business communication features.

Sign up with Calilio today to get a feature-rich virtual toll-free number. Alongside free-to-call phone numbers, you can enjoy many features like a unified callbox, call queuing, forwarding, and transcribing in your business communication solution.

The cost to set up an 800 number depends on the service provider. Typically, it can range from $15 to $30 per user/month. With Calilio, you can get it for only $12 per user/month if billed annually.

Yes, you can get your own 800 number for business by subscribing to your desired business plan from a reliable VoIP provider.

Yes, 800 numbers are still available. However, it depends on the VoIP provider as they are limited.

No, the 800 number isn’t free from anywhere. It is toll-free only within the specific country of origin.