If you are looking to increase the volume of sales leads to your business, you need to try a freephone 0800 or 0808 number. Discover why so many businesses unlock the power of freephone numbers.
In the UK, freephone numbers are phone numbers that allow you to make calls without incurring any charge. According to Wikipedia, 0800 and 0808 numbers are defined as free-to-caller from landlines, mobile phones, and payphones alike. The business receiving the call pays the costs.
Introduced in the 1980s, free-to-caller numbers originally used old local area codes. Fast forward to the 1990s, and prefixes were allocated to three providers: Vodafone (0321), Mercury Communications (0500) and BT (0800). Each prefix was followed by a six-digit number, making a 10-digit number.
More competition and a shortage of freephone numbers meant new 0800 numbers were issued with seven unique digits. The 0808 number was created in 1997.
Deregulation in the 1990s meant other telecoms companies could compete with BT for 0800 numbers.
Over time, the 0321 and 0500 were withdrawn from service.
In the mid-2000s mobile phone operators charged calls to most UK freephone numbers, but from 2015 the regulator Ofcom clamped down on this practice.
It is worth noting that anyone calling a freephone number must be in the UK, otherwise the call will be charged.
Freephone numbers are popular with businesses seeking to gain market share or running marketing campaigns, as they are proven to increase the numbers of incoming calls.
If you decide to use one of our call handling packages, we can provide a virtual UK freephone number with no ongoing monthly costs. Contact us to find out more about our FREE 14-day trial.
One of the main reasons why businesses prefer to use 0800 numbers is that research has shown that more than 90% of the public know the number is free to call. This shows that UK freephone numbers can attract both new and existing customers.
What are 0800 numbers?
Classified as virtual numbers, you do not need to install extra phone lines or equipment to use an 0800 freephone number. Best Reception can divert incoming calls to your landline or mobile number. You can keep 0800 numbers for life as they are not linked to a property or destination.
Removing the cost of calling could potentially increase the number of enquiries you receive.
Are 0800 numbers free to call?
Yes, 0800 numbers are completely free to call from a UK landline or mobile phone.
How much do 0800 numbers cost?
While calls to freephone numbers are free for customers, your business will be charged for every incoming call you receive. This means 0800 numbers can be more expensive than local rate or other virtual numbers.
Get an 0800 number for your business
Obtaining an 0800 freephone number for your business is easier than you think. Our cost-effective packages mean you can have a number up and running within a few hours.
If you decide to use one of our call handling service packages, there are no additional ongoing costs of having a 0800 number. (Note, a set-up fee will still be charged). Contact us to find out more about our FREE 14-day trial.
Whatever your industry, a freephone 0808 number can make you stand out from the competition. If you want to increase your volume of incoming calls, you need to read on…
What are 0808 numbers?
Freephone 0808 prefixes are non-geographic virtual numbers that can provide your business with a national identity. They provide a professional and reputable image when marketing your products and services across the UK.
Are 0808 numbers free to call?
Yes, just like 0800 numbers they are free to phone from a UK landline or mobile phone. That’s why 0808 numbers are so popular with ambitious small and medium-sized businesses looking to increase their sales leads.
How much do 0808 numbers cost?
While your customers will not pay for using a freephone 0808 number, your business will be charged for every incoming call. Here at Best Reception, we have a range of call packages to choose from.
Get an 0808 number for your business
Getting an 0808 freephone number is stress free with Best Reception. With the help of our friendly professionals, you can have a UK freephone number set up in a few hours.
If you decide to use one of our call handling service packages, there are no additional ongoing costs of having a 0808 number. (Note, a set-up fee will still be charged). Contact us to find out more about our FREE 14-day trial.
Research has shown businesses can see up to 175% more incoming calls after moving to an 0800 number. Using a freephone number also sends a signal that you care about customer service.
Quick set-up as Best Reception will get your 0800 number working within a few hours.
The friendly experts at Best Reception will ensure that the process of getting a freephone number for your business is as smooth as possible.
There are no hidden fees or lengthy contracts, it only takes a small one-off cost (from just £50) to get things started.
No monthly fee with our call handling services.
Would you like a memorable phone number for your business?
If you do, we can find you one at a great price. You can keep the number, even when you cancel your Best Reception service.
When you choose a call handling package with Best Reception, a freephone number is free every month after paying an initial set-up fee.
Read on to learn more about our available packages.
Our entry-level service gives you access to the UK-based Best Reception call answering team. They offer callers a high standard of customer service by promptly answering your calls in a polite and professional manner.
An ideal choice for smaller businesses in need of friendly receptionists to take care of enquiries, call transfers and messages.
Relax safe in the knowledge that a virtual PA is taking care of all your phone calls, diary appointments and other admin duties. This allows you to focus on the most important areas of your operation.
Designed for bigger companies who receive a high volume of calls, our UK-based receptionists will man your switchboard.
Calls will be answered professionally, ensuring your customers have a positive first impression of your business.
Both 0800 and 0808 numbers operate the same way. BT introduced the 0800 code as the first freephone numbers to be used in the UK. Not surprisingly, the introduction of 0800 numbers proved very popular and soon the stock of numbers began to run out. In response, regulator Ofcom created a new range of 0808 freephone numbers.
Calls made to numbers with the 0800 code are free from all UK landlines and mobiles.
Some people still believe that all phone numbers starting with 08 will mean eye-watering charges per minute. While you need to be careful when calling 0844, 0845, 0870 and 0871 numbers, the good news is that 0808 numbers are free to call from UK landlines and mobiles.
There is no need. Freephone 0800 numbers can be dialled from any UK mobile phone. If you wish to receive the calls to your 0800 number on your mobile, the experts at Best Reception can set that up for you.
Trial our call handling service for two weeks.
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