How to get an international phone number?
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Since modern technology has come a long way, people can do so many things from the comfort of their homes. From setting up shops online to having your products delivered internationally, the internet has made it easy for all. Furthermore, you can even get a phone number for any country you want online. And the best part is that you do not have to be a resident of that state or even visit it.
You can easily get an international phone number from online communication tools like Google Voice or VoIP phone number providers like Calilio.
International Phone Number in Brief
An international phone number is a typical phone number with a country code prefix to identify the nation. Each country has a specific country code like the USA’s is ’+1’, the UK’s is ‘+44’, and Spain’s is ‘+34.’
International phone number format typically includes the country code, area code, and unique local number. Its easy to connect once you know the correct format. However, it will cost you a lot when making calls compared to your local calls. For example, an international call to the UK from the US is $3.50/min and to China is $5/min.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) providers offer a variety of international virtual phone numbers as a cost-effective solution.
Types of International Phone Numbers
An international phone number can be basically put into two categories; local and toll-free.
Local Phone Numbers
A local phone number, whether mobile or landline, is bound to a particular geographical area. While all the countries have fixed area codes, depending on states or metropolises, some have varying mobile codes, as per the telecommunication provider.
Toll-Free Phone Numbers
As the name suggests itself, toll-free phone numbers are free call phone numbers. These are such numbers where a caller doesn’t have to worry about charges. Instead, the number’s owner or receiver covers the call cost.
It is easy to identify a toll-free number since it has definite 3-digit prefixes, starting only with 8, the most common being 800. You can also have a customized toll-free number, i.e., a vanity number with specific phrases like 1-800-FISH.
Why Do You Need an International Phone Number?
An international phone number is necessary for expanding businesses, creating a global presence, and attracting customers from all corners of the world.
More importantly, if you get an international business phone number from a reliable VoIP provider, there are plenty of features to enjoy.
- Expansion of Business: With an international phone number, you can expand your business to any place you want.
- Presence in the International Market: If you are running a small and mid-size enterprise, opening offices in foreign locations is difficult. By getting an international phone number, you can make your presence felt in the global market.
- Save on Call Costs: As stated above, making international calls are expensive. You can contact your clients or your dear ones at local rates by getting an international phone number.
- Increase Credibility and Brand Image: Consumers are more likely to pick up calls when they see a familiar local number. If you approach them with a foreign number, many mostly avoid it, thinking it’s a scam. So, an international number of a certain locality not only increases your organization’s credibility but boosts your brand image as well.
- Security and Safety of Data: When you get an international phone number from VoIP providers, your international calls are safe with their robust firewalls and data encryptions.
- Manage Call Volumes: With an international phone number from a VoIP provider, you also get access to their VoIP application. With its help, you can handle calls more efficiently. You can even set personal greetings and set Interactive Voice Response (IVR) or automatic call distribution.
Things to Consider Before Getting an International Phone Number
Just because it is easy to get an international phone number doesn’t mean you can get it on a whim. From selecting a VoIP provider to choosing a sustainable subscriber plan, there are many things to reflect on.
Initially, know your needs. Search for a VoIP provider that caters to your necessity. Well, multiple international virtual number providers come with different pricing. Ensure you settle on the best one that fits your budget.
Then, look at the offered services. As it is a competitive market, each provider wants to give you features the others are not offering. So, analyze the perks you get with your selected provider and make sure you get all the benefits.
Running a business is difficult; it can either boom or decline. So, pick a flexible contract/custom plan provider that can adapt to your requirements. Additionally, also confirm that your virtual number provider has implemented the latest security system that protects your sensitive data at all costs.
How to Get an International Phone Number?
You can get an international phone number from VoIP service providers. Simply select the provider, choose your plan, and buy an international number.
For any VoIP providers, the steps generally include:
- Step 1: Sign Up or Create an Account with a VoIP provider by entering your Full Name, Email Address, Phone Number, and desired Password.
- Step 2: You’ll get an OTP on your mail or phone number for verification. Use it to verify your account.
- Step 3: Choose your desired subscription plan that fits your budget.
- Step 4: Select your number type, including country and area codes.
- Step 5: Follow the prompt instructions to purchase and secure your number.
Top International Number Providers
So where to get your international number from? Here are some of the best virtual number providers, including their pricing and main features.
Google Voice
Worrying about a hefty cost when acquiring an international number? Then, Google Voice is your solution to get an international phone number for free. Just by signing up, you can have your international number without spending a single penny. Plus, it has unlimited free calls to the US and Canada.
Moreover, Google Voice allows you to take control of your calls. It also offers call forwarding and blocks spam calls silently.
(Note: Google Voice also has an Enterprise plan)
Calilio
Trusted by clients worldwide, Calilio’s business phone system modernizes business communication with ordered, reliable, and top-notch connectivity. Its compact features, like a unified callbox, call monitoring, sentiment analysis, and call analytics, can take your firm to new heights.
You can get international numbers from 100-plus countries by subscribing to its budget-friendly plans.
(Note: Calilio has a Custom Enterprise plan as well.)
MightyCall
MightyCall is specifically designed for small and mid-sized organizations. Its in-built AI monitors call quality and makes adjustments for a smooth connection. You can also integrate its virtual phone system with other applications like HubSpot, Salesforce and Pipedrive.
Moreover, you can have a 7-day test trial and see if MightyCall stands up to its standard or not before purchasing the service.
eVoice
eVoice is a virtual phone system that helps to expand your business from your personal phone. It doesn’t require any hardware and is easy to set up. As your business grows, you can also customize its call features and number options.
One of eVocie’s major benefits is it has the capacity to merge 94 callers into a single call. And for added insights, you can see whom you talked with and for how long in its usage reports.
(Note: *excluding taxes and fees)
Freshcaller
Freshcaller is one of Freshworks Inc.’s products. It helps to set up a fully adaptable PBX (Private Branch Exchange) system where you can receive calls on your SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) devices.
You can benefit from its features like automatic call distribution and routing if you are busy handling a call already. Furthermore, for starters, Freshcaller also offers a free plan.
Conclusion
As you see, it is vital to have an international phone number. For business purposes, it helps expand your reach and creates and boosts your brand image alongside business credibility. For personal purposes, you can reach your loved ones without worrying about hefty call charges.
The VoIP service provider allows you to get an international phone number online. There are numerous VoIP number providers out there. Sign up with Calilio for the feature-rich international numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Get an International Phone Number for Free?
You can get an international phone number for free by signing up with Google Voice. However, you have to subscribe to its business plan to use advanced features.
How Do I Get an International Number on WhatsApp?
Firstly, get an international number from a reliable provider. Then, activate your WhatsApp on that number.
How to Get an International Cell Phone Number?
You can get an international cell phone number from Calilio. Simply sign up, choose your desired international cell number, and purchase.
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