What Are 03 Numbers | 033 Numbers Explained - EReceptionist

We all know that 01 and 02 numbers are local telephone numbers but what about 03 numbers? We explain 03 numbers and discuss how they can benefit your business.

What are 03 numbers?

Well 03 are non-geographic numbers meaning they are not tied to any particular location – so in that regard they are the same as 0844 or 0845 numbers. Where UK 03 Numbers differ from the 08 ranges is that they are cheaper to call. The rates for 03 numbers are the same as a local landline call - even from a mobile.03 numbers were introduced by Ofcom in 2007 as an alternative to chargeable 08 numbers, so consumers could call a UK-wide number without having to suffer higher call rates. Dialling 03 numbers costs no more than the national rate for calling 01 or 02 numbers, and counts towards inclusive minutes on tariffs.So, in a nutshell 03 numbers and 033 numbers are a great way for consumers to contact you without them having to bear any additional charges.

What are the business benefits of 03 numbers?

One of the biggest benefits to securing an 03 number is that you are able to make the calling costs clear to your customers (a boon if call volume is something you’re interested in).

Also, 03 numbers are newer to the scene than 08 numbers, and as such, the demand has not yet caught up with supply. So if you want a memorable number for your business there’s a lot of opportunity in this space. You can get 03 numbers with desirable characteristics: choose a number with repeating digits, or with recognisable clusters, such as 121 or even 007.

You’ll also find that the addition of an 03 number will ensure your business has a national presence, which will boost your overall professional image.

Are you compliant with the latest regulations?

Legislation was passed in June 2014 making it illegal to use premium rate 084 and 087 phone numbers for customer service and complaint lines, and was part of Ofcom’s Draft Bill on Consumer Rights.

Small businesses may very well believe that this legislation does not impact them, but 084 ranges are popular with sole traders and tradesmen, and many of these businesses may be unaware that they risk a fine by not providing an alternative to their single point of contact.

03 numbers are a real benefit for both new and existing businesses is due to these regulatory changes from Ofcom.

Want to keep your 084 or 087 number?

Businesses that have historically used 084 and 087 numbers have often done so to generate revenue, or to cover the cost of their service. So how do you stay compliant whilst not having to go deal with the expense of changing your 08 number?Well there’s excellent news on that front: telecoms providers can supply the 03 variation of an existing 08 number. So, if for example your number is 0844 123456, your provider should also be able to supply you with 0344 123456.

With a small business phone system it’s cost effective and simple to route calls to a new 03 number to existing landlines or mobile numbers.With eReceptionist® if you want an 084 number, we’ll reserve the 034 variant for you and supply it to you at a discounted rate, so your business will be compliant and you can still retain the 084 numbers that customers are already familiar with.

So if you want to make sure you’re compliant with regulations or want to try an 03 number for yourself, talk to the eReceptionist® team on 0800 066 9939 or 0333 012 4141