What is the Best Time to Call Canada?

The best time to call canada

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Canada is a diversified and culturally rich country, from the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains in the west to the ancient beauty of Quebec in the east. Due to the country's vast geography, it reflects multiple time zones with its local customs and schedules. So, calling someone living in Canada seems a little tricky and complicated.

However, understanding Canada's time zones helps connect with those living there. This article provides a comprehensive guide to different time zones and the best time to call Canada.


Understanding Different Time Zones in Canada

There are six standard time zones within Canada. Following is the list of different time zones across the country with a detailed overview:

Pacific Time Zone (PT)

The Pacific Time Zone (PT) covers the westernmost zone operated at UTC-8, which means it is 8 hours behind universal time. However, when daylight saving time (DST) begins, the time is forwarded to UTC-7 for one hour, which usually happens in March. Canadian cities like Vancouver, Surrey, and Burnaby follow this time zone.

Mountain Time Zone

The Mountain Time Zone (MT) covers part of British Columbia, the northwest, and Nunavut and operates at UTC-7 standard time. However, during the DST, the time shifts to UTC-6. It is one hour ahead of Pacific Time. Cities such as Calgary and Edmonton are located in this time zone.

Central Time Zone (CT)

The Central Time Zone (CT) operates at standard time UTC-6, covering areas like Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Nunavut. During the Daylight Saving Time (DST), the standard time shifts to UTC-5.  One of the interesting facts about this time zone is that though it observes DST, most parts of Saskatchewan do not observe it.  So, you should take extra consideration when calling to this part of Canada from overseas.

Eastern Time Zone (ET)

The Eastern Time Zone (ET) is the most populated time zone and operates at UTC-5. But during the DST, the standard time zone becomes UTC-4, so consider the proper time before calling. Canada's major cities, like Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal, follow this zone.

Atlantic Time Zone (AT)

Atlantic Time Zone (AT) is found in the eastern province of Canada and operates at standard time UTC-4. However, during the DST, the standard time shifted to UTC-3. Major cities such as  New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island are part of this time zone.

Newfoundland Time Zone (NT)

Newfoundland Time Zone (NT) is the only province whose time zone is offset by half-hours instead of a full hour. The standard time of this zone is UTC-3:30, but during the DST, its time becomes UTC-2:30. Its slight differences can be easy to overlook, but it’s essential to remember when calling someone in this region.

What is the Right Time To Call Canada?

The best time to call in Canada depends on your location and specific time zone within Canada. For instance, if you are calling from America, it is best to call between 9 AM -5P. Here is a simple breakdown of Canada call timing from different regions:

Calling Canada from the United States

The United States and Canada share a similar time zone, which makes it easier to find suitable calling hours. For example, if you live on the East Coast (Eastern Time Zone), calling in the morning and afternoon would be appropriate. But, if you live in the Pacific time zone, it would be better to call late in the morning and early afternoon.
 

Time Zone (US) 

Time Differences

Appropriate Time to Call (United States Time)

Eastern TimeSame as Eastern Time in Canada9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Central Time+1 hour ahead8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Mountain Time+2 hour ahead7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Pacific Time+3 hour ahead6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
📖 You may also read: How To Call Canada From the US?

Calling Canada from Europe

Calling from Europe to Canada needs a proper time due to the significant time difference between the countries. Almost all the geographical areas of Europe are ahead of Canada by several hours. So, calling late afternoon and early evening is better, corresponding to Canada's morning time.
 

Time Zone (Europe)

Time Differences

Appropriate Time to Call (Europe's time) 

Western Europe4-5 hours ahead2 PM - 6 PM
Central Europe5-6 hours ahead3 PM - 7 PM 
Eastern Europe7-8 hours ahead4 PM - 8 PM
Northern Europe5-6 hours ahead3 PM - 7 PM 
Southern Europe5-6 hours ahead3 PM - 7 PM 

Calling Canada from Asia

Canada and Asia are two vast and diverse regions with 7-16 hour long time differences. So, it is essential to schedule the proper time before calling Canada. If you are calling in the early morning from Asia, then in Canada, it will be late afternoon, which can also be a convenient option for calling.
 

Time Zone (US) 

Time Differences

Appropriate Time to Call (Asian Time)

East Asia13-16 hours ahead7 AM - 9 AM
South Asia10-13 hours ahead6 AM - 8 AM
Southeast Asia12-25 hours ahead6 AM - 9 AM
Western Asia7-10 hours ahead7 AM - 11 AM

Calling Canada from Australia

Australia is also many hours ahead of Canada, with time differences ranging from 14 to 18 hours. The best time to call Canada from Australia is in the morning hours, which falls in the late afternoon or early evening in Canada.
 

Time Zone (US) 

Time Differences

Appropriate Time to Call (Australian Time)

Eastern Australia14-17 hours ahead7 AM - 9 AM
Central Australia14.5-17.5 hours ahead7 AM - 9 AM
Western Australia16-18 hours ahead7 AM - 10 AM
📖 You may also read: What Is The Best Time To Call Italy?

Best Way to Call the Canada

There are several methods you can use to call Canada smoothly, each with its advantage. Following are some of the best methods to call Canada:

VoIP Services

The Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) platform allows you to make calls and send messages through the Internet. Compared to traditional phone systems, VoIP phones are less expensive and offer advanced features. Some popular providers are Calilio, Nextiva, RingCentral, and Dialpads, which provide comprehensive communication solutions. Using these applications helps you to connect easily with anyone in Canada.

Calling Cards

Calling cards is another effective way to connect with your friends and family living in Canada. Using a calling card, you can frequently make international calls at an affordable price compared to standard international rates. You can purchase a card online or at a retail store with a set amount of calling time. To use it, just dial a local access number, enter your PIN, and dial a Canadian number you wish to reach.

Using Mobile Plan

Many carriers offer a mobile plan at a low rate for international calling. Using plans allows you to call Canada at a lower per-minute rate or even offer unlimited calling to Canada for a monthly fee. Using your mobile plan is convenient because you don’t need any special equipment or an internet connection.

Conclusion

Understanding Canada call timing is essential whether you live in the United States, Europe, Asia, or Australia. This ensures that when calling to Canada, you call at the appropriate time for your receiver. So, before calling, consider certain factors, like time differences, geographical area, and calling method. Calling at the right time and using the correct method helps you to ensure smooth calling.

Choose a VoIP platform like Calilio for the most affordable and convenient option. Calilio offers a virtual number for more than 100 countries. You can use any number to reach Canada at a reasonable price.  Moreover, you can also get a Canada virtual number and call Canada from overseas at a local rate using it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time of Day is Best to Call Canada?

The best time to call Canada depends on the specific region within the country and the time zone differences.

What Should Consider When Calling Canada from Europe?

When calling Canada from Europe, consider factors such as time zone differences, daylight saving time, calling hours, and calling rates.

Are There Any Tools to Help Schedule Calls to Canada?

A few online tools can help you determine the best time to call Canada, like Travelmath's time zone converter.


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