Common questions about inbound numbers

December 10, 2010 – Many people have asked what the difference is between 1800 numbers and 1300 numbers.

In terms of functionality both numbers are actually exactly the same. Both types of numbers can have call overflow, call recording, text and voice capability, call reporting, and all origin and time based routing.

The difference is in the local charge cost. An owner of an 1800 number does not have any free local calls, whereas you normally have 15 minutes free local calls on a 1300.

There is also a difference for callers. If you call an 1800 number from a landline it’s a free call. 1300 numbers will incur local call charges. However if you call any of these two services from a mobile then you will be charged a rate per minute by your service provider. Therefore it is not advisable that you call these services from a mobile.

People have also asked if they need to change their landline providers if they choose to take up an inbound service. This is not necessary. As toll free services are virtual numbers you only need to point the number to your landline service. It is not required for you to change your landline provider. The other advantage of these services being virtual numbers is that you can take them anywhere you want. No need to change the number if you move to a new business address. This saves money also with all of your advertising and stationery.

In terms of pointing the number, you can anchor them anywhere you want. This may include your office lines, landlines, mobile, home office number, or your business partner’s number. The flexibility of inbound services means that you can have them anchored to any type of phone number you want, even to overseas numbers.

Cost wise, both services usually have a monthly fee and call rates are also charged.

 

 

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