Thinking about a memorable business number but not sure what it will cost, either for you or for the people calling you? The rules around 03, 0845 and 0800 numbers are widely misunderstood. Here is a clear, up to date breakdown of what each type of number really costs in the UK.
What is the cost of an 0800 number?
The 0800 number cost sits with the business rather than the caller, because 0800 and 0808 numbers are free to call, so it pays to understand how each number type is charged. The regulator Ofcom sets the rules.
The two costs to understand
Every non-geographic number has two sides: what it costs the caller, and what it costs you as the business. Getting these the right way round is the key to choosing wisely.
0333 and 03 numbers
0333 numbers (and all 03 numbers) cost callers exactly the same as calling a standard 01 or 02 landline, and they are included in any inclusive minutes bundle on mobiles and landlines. For the business, an 03 number is inexpensive to run and gives you a professional national presence that is not tied to one town. For most businesses, 0333 is the sweet spot.
0345 and 0344 numbers
0345 and 0344 numbers work just like 03 numbers for the caller: charged at standard geographic rates and included in bundles. They are often held by established businesses that moved over from older 0845 and 0844 numbers. If you still have an 0845 number, moving to 0345 keeps the familiar digits while making calls cheaper for your customers.
0800 and 0808 freephone numbers
0800 and 0808 numbers are free for the caller, including from mobiles. That makes them powerful for sales lines, customer service and anything where you want to remove every barrier to picking up the phone. The trade off is that the business pays for the inbound calls, so the cost sits with you rather than the caller. Used well, a freephone number can pay for itself in extra enquiries.
The old 0845 and 0844 numbers
These numbers add a service charge on top of the caller’s normal rate, so they are now seen as customer unfriendly and, in some sectors, are not allowed for customer service lines. If you still run one, it is worth moving to an 03 number to keep your customers happy and avoid complaints.
Which number should your business choose?
- Want a professional, low cost national number? Choose 0333.
- Moving from an old 0845 number? Switch to 0345 to keep it familiar but cheaper to call.
- Running sales or support lines where you want maximum calls? Consider 0800 freephone.
- Still on 0844 or 0845? Move off it, as it puts customers off and may breach the rules.
How ATS Connection can help
We supply and manage the full range of business numbers, and route them into your VoIP phone system so calls reach the right people wherever they work. See the options on our business phone numbers page, or get a quote and we will recommend the right setup. Call 01903 255 159.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to call an 0333 number?
0333 numbers cost the same as calling an 01 or 02 landline and are included in inclusive minutes on mobile and landline plans, so most callers pay nothing extra.
Are 0345 numbers free to call?
No, but they are charged at standard geographic rates and included in call bundles, so they cost the caller the same as a normal landline number.
Who pays for an 0800 freephone number?
The business does. 0800 and 0808 numbers are free for the caller, including from mobiles, with the inbound call cost paid by the company.
Should I move away from an 0845 number?
Usually yes. 0845 and 0844 numbers add a service charge for callers, are seen as customer unfriendly, and are banned for some customer service lines. Moving to 0345 or 0333 is better.
Which business number is best?
For most businesses a 0333 number is ideal: cheap to run, free within bundles for callers and a professional national presence. Choose 0800 where you want to encourage the maximum number of calls.