Here’s a detailed explanation of the differences between Local Numbers, National Numbers, Mobile Numbers, and Toll-Free Numbers as per CallHippo:
1. Local Number:
Definition: A local number is a phone number that is specific to a particular geographic area or region.
Procurement: You must provide local documents from the country where you are adding the number.
Usage: Typically used by businesses to establish a presence in a specific locality. It helps in building trust with local customers.
Format: Local numbers usually include a specific area code that corresponds to the region.
Example: If a business is based in New York, a local number would have the area code for New York (e.g., 212, 646).
2. Mobile Number:
Definition: A mobile number is assigned to a mobile phone, allowing users to make and receive calls on the go.
Procurement: Most of the mobile numbers can be procured using documents from anywhere in the world. However, please contact support for confirmation.
Usage: Used by individuals and businesses alike; mobile numbers are essential for communication that requires mobility.
Format: Mobile numbers may vary by country but generally include a specific prefix indicating it is a mobile line.
Example: In the U.S., a mobile number might begin with a prefix like 415 or 310, but the specifics can vary by carrier.
3. Toll-Free Number:
Definition: A toll-free number is a special telephone number that allows the caller to reach a business without being charged for the call. The business owner pays for the call instead.
Usage: Commonly used by businesses to encourage customer inquiries and support, as it removes the cost barrier for the caller.
Format: Toll-free numbers typically start with specific prefixes like 1-800, 1-888, 1 877, etc.
Example: A toll-free number could look like 1-800-555-0199, and callers are not charged for dialing it.
Summary:
Local Numbers: Tied to specific geographic areas, enhancing local presence.
Mobile Numbers: Assigned to mobile phones, allowing for on-the-go communication.
Toll-Free Numbers: These are free for the caller and paid by the business, encouraging customer engagement.
Frequently asked questions:
Q: Will I be charged for incoming calls on the CallHippo toll-free number once added to my account?
A: Yes, you will be charged for incoming calls on your CallHippo toll-free number. The toll-free feature ensures that your clients are not charged when they call you, but the cost of these calls will be covered by your account.
Q: Is it possible to make outgoing calls using a toll-free number?
A: Outgoing calls using a CallHippo toll-free number are not guaranteed to work.
Q: Does selecting a local or a mobile number affect calling in any way?
A: No, calling services remain unaffected by the local or mobile number type.
Q: Is it possible to enable SMS services on a local number?
A: No, SMS services cannot be activated on the CallHippo local numbers.
Q: Are the number charges different for different number types for numbers of the same country?
A: Yes, the number of charges varies as per the number of types as well. Kindly refer to the link below for the same.
https://callhippo.com/global-number-charges/?phonesystem=business
Q: Will the caller be charged if they call my CallHippo toll-free number?
A: No, callers will not be charged for calling your CallHippo toll-free number. As the number owner, you will bear the cost of incoming calls to ensure a free calling experience for your customers.
We hope this information was helpful to you.
For any more queries regarding the number types, you can contact support via live chat or email at [email protected].