UK Phone Numbers Explained
With the plethora of phone numbers like 0800, 087, 084, and 01/02, it's easy to get lost in confusion. But fear not! Let's unravel the mystery and discover what these numbers actually mean.
Many calls are covered by inclusive minutes in phone contracts, but some calls are not included and are billed per minute or per call.
Call costs vary based on your provider, calling plans, time of day, and specific number dialled. Contact your provider for clarification before making the call.
01 and 02 numbers: geographic numbers
These geographic numbers, also known as 'basic rate', 'local rate', or 'national rate', correspond to specific locations in the UK and are used by households and businesses.
When calling from a landline, charges are typically up to 16p per minute with a possible additional connection charge. Call costs from mobiles vary depending on the calling plan, but calls to 01/02 are usually included in free call packages, if not costs can range from 3p to 65p per minute.
03 numbers: UK-wide non-geographic numbers
Organizations are using 03 numbers as a cost-effective alternative to expensive 08 numbers i.e., like the shift from 0845 to 0345 by public sector bodies. Calls to these numbers won't cost more than calls to geographic numbers like 01 or 02.
Charges from landline calls can be up to 16p per minute with a possible connection charge but vary depending on time of day. Most communications providers offer 03 inclusive call packages as with 01/02 numbers.
Calls from mobiles are usually included in free call packages but can vary according to plan.
0800 and 0808: Freephone
Businesses, helplines, charities, and government services use Freephone numbers, which are free to call from all consumer landlines and mobile phones. However, if calling from a business phone, it is advisable to check with your provider for any potential charges when dialling 0800 or 0808.
084/087 numbers
These service numbers are used by organisations for sales or inquiry lines. The cost is divided into two parts: an access charge from your phone company and a service charge set by the organisation.
The service charge for calls to 084/087 numbers can range from 0p to 7p per minute, it's important to prominently display this charge when advertising or promoting the phone number.
The access charge, separate from the service charge, varies and is set by your phone company. This can range from 8p to 67p per minute.
We will be delving further into call charges in future communications.
Costs Correct as of Feb 2023
If you would like to talk to one of our team to get any point clarifying please do not hesitate to contact us. Call us now on 0800 692 7000 or email new@08uk.co.uk so we can call you back.
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