0800 Numbers

Free phone numbers were originally invented in the USA as an alternative to collect calling as the use of a toll free phone line reduces the need for operators and the subsequent work load. However, once the commercial potential of free phone lines, or 0800 numbers as they are known in the UK, was realised they became commonplace all over the world with numerous companies and businesses making use of them. 0800 numbers are frequently utilised for customer support lines by many companies, particularly those that sell a product or are in an industry where a significant level of after sales support may be required by customers.

Having a free phone line for customer support will generally significantly increase the level of customer satisfaction enjoyed by a company as most people would resent having to use a premium rate line to get customer support for a product or service they have already paid for. Although 0800 numbers are free to call the party receiving the call will incur costs.

These cost can vary significantly depending on the company who is providing the free phone line, although charges usually take the form of a monthly line rental, with calls received being charge by the minute. Some of the companies that provide 0800 numbers will run special monthly payment packages that allow their clients to receive a certain number of free calls each month before additional billing occurs.