Toll-free numbers are numbers that begin with one of the following three-digit codes: 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, and 844. These numbers are the best 800 number service for small business numbers and allow callers to contact businesses or individuals without having to pay for those calls.
The cost of using a toll-free number is financed by the party receiving the call (the subscriber of the toll-free number) instead of the calling party. Through toll-free numbers, calls can be made directly to your company or your personal hotline.
How Are Free Numbers Assigned?
Toll-free numbers are assigned on a first come, first served basis by entities known as “Responsible Organizations.” These entities can be telephone companies, though not always. They have access to 800 databases, which have information related to the status of all toll-free numbers. The RespOrgs are certified by the administration of the SMS/800 databases, in charge of the free call service.
What Is a “Vanity” Number and How Can I Get it?
A “vanity” number is a toll-free number whose numbering includes the name of a person or company or a word or acronym. For example, 1-800-FLOWERS or 1-888-NEW-CARS.
It is the best 800 number service for small business for your customers, which is formed with names or words alluding to your company or its interests.
Unlike the typical 800 numbers, vanity numbers are a combination of numbers and letters, which are made up of an 800/700/888 prefix number, among others, which are related to the company and serve to be memorable for customers. It is much easier to memorize that type of personalized number than others that are only composed of digits.
What About the FCC Rules?
FCC rules prohibit providers of free telephone numbers from storing such numbers. It is illegal for a free phone number service provider to reserve a toll-free number without a subscriber to assign it to.
Subscribers who collect numbers for free calls will also be performing a prohibited and illegal activity. Subscribers are not allowed to get more numbers for free calls than they plan to use. Number accumulation also includes “number brokering” – it is illegal for a subscriber to sell a number for free calls and charge a fee for doing so.
What Are the Advantages of a Vanity Number?
A good vanity number is imperative; not only because it offers your customers a free method to get in touch with your company but also leaves a lasting impression on them and sets your brand apart at the contact level in the target market.
Some notable benefits of a vanity number are:
• Easy to remember
• Contribute to your corporate image, professionalism
• Give credibility to your business
• They are a great marketing tool because they support brand recognition and can have a great impact on your company
How to Get a Good Vanity Number for Your Company?
First, make sure the number you are choosing is the best 800 number service for small business and that it is easy to remember. You must convey clearly what your business does as a vanity number acts as an extension of your brand. Avoid using hybrid numbers and letters that may be confusing to customers.
Having a vanity number for your company can facilitate an incomparable level of contact between you and your clients which will take your business’ customer service to a new level.
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