The Background Of 800 Numbers And How They Have Changed

By Sonya T. Crooks

Toll-free phone numbers are often referred to as 800 numbers because this is the dialing prefix that is designated for use with these lines. These lines are wanted by businesses and individuals so that their customers or callers can reach them without having to pay charges. Rather, the owner of the phone line covers the charges. Businesses like these numbers because it makes it easier for their customers to contact them without having to pay a high phone bill because they are located out of the area.

In the United States, 800 numbers initially made their appearance in the 1960s. At that time, a large number of operators were needed to handle the amount of collect call that were being placed, so these toll-free lines eliminated the need for such a high number of them. Collect calls work in a similar way that toll-free numbers do in that the caller is not charged for the phone call, but rather the recipient is. Collect calls are not completely in the past though, considering most people do not have their own toll-free lines.

When 800 numbers were first introduced, only large corporations could afford to have them. With average rates of 13-15 cents per minute in the 1980s, it's no surprise that only large companies could afford to have this designated line. Nowadays, because rates have been reduced across the board for this service, businesses of all sizes can take advantage of having a toll-free line. It is not uncommon to pay only 2 cents per minute for a toll-free line today.

Since more and more companies have started obtaining these designated lines, the prefixes for these numbers have expanded to accommodate them. Rather of just a single prefix, toll-free numbers can currently start with 855, 866, 877, and 888 as well. The numbers ran out in the first prefix which caused the need for additional numbers in other prefixes. Many companies use their numbers as an easy marketing tool since they can be personalized to be a certain number or phrase to represent the company.

The phrase 800 numbers is synonymous with toll-free numbers and actually encompasses all of the other prefixes. For more than half a century, companies have been using these lines as a method for clients and customers to easily contact them. Since rates have dropped rather than increased in recent years, it is easier for more individuals and businesses to acquire their own toll-free lines rather than being exclusively available to large companies.

About the Author:

Proper telecommunications services are one of most important aspects of business company. To be aware in a variety of options, please read 800 numbers or business phone systems.