Mobile phones are popular since most providers offer free minutes bundled with the tariff plan. Most users in the UK use mobiles to make calls. However, making calls to
0800 numbers ,
0845 numbers ,
0844 numbers , or
0871 numbers from a mobile is not free with most mobile operators and are normally excluded from any discount packages available. Therefore, customers making calls to
freephone numbers could end up with a higher phone bill. The idea of a business using a 0800 number is for customers to make free calls but the purpose is defeated if mobile users cannot do so. As an alternative, Ofcom introduced the 03 number range where calls from mobiles are charged the same as that to regular landline numbers, which is an ideal alternative for businesses. Calls to 03 numbers are not charged extra when called from a mobile phone.
03 numbers do not require any additional equipment and can be integrated into existing telephone numbers. In addition, the call management features available with 0800 numbers also remain the same. Calls made within the bundled free minutes are not charged while the same rate as a normal landline call is applicable when free minutes are exhausted. Therefore, businesses with a large customer base who use mobile phones to make their calls ought to consider shifting to a 03 number.
All calls to 03 numbers are treated as normal calls to landline destinations. Besides, it does not cost a business anything to set up a 03 connection. There are no rental charges either. The allocation of 03 numbers depends on the type of organisation. Businesses are allotted a different set of numbers unlike those allotted to government bodies and charities. 0303 and 0300 numbers are pre-allocated for government bodies and charities while 0330 numbers are open to any business or organisation. Businesses can provide their customers with value services when they opt for a 03 number. Besides, there is transparency in pricing which gives customers more confidence in the business they are dealing with. At least 35% of incoming calls end up free for customers since they are included in the free inclusive minutes. Most importantly, businesses end up receiving much more enquiry calls than they would with 08 numbers as their clients can call them anytime from their mobile phones.
