Learn about inbound toll-free phone numbers and how to order international inbound numbers.
If you're looking to order an international toll-free number, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of ordering standard toll-free numbers as well as special numbers or large number blocks.
Standard toll-free numbers
Ordering a standard toll-free number in small quantities (less than 5) is a simple and straightforward process.
A standard toll-free number is a phone number that begins with a specific three-digit code, such as 800, 888, 877, or 866, which allows the caller to make a call without incurring any charges for the call. The cost of the call is instead paid for by the recipient of the call, typically a business or organization. Toll-free numbers are commonly used for customer service hotlines, sales lines, and other similar purposes. They are a convenient way for businesses to make themselves accessible to customers without requiring the customer to pay for the call.
Ordering Process
Here are the steps involved.
- Gather the customer requirements.
- Lodge a signed service order
- Get the number provisioned
Approximate Delivery
1-3 Business Days
Special toll-free numbers or large number blocks
When it comes to more sophisticated requirements such as particular number patterns, a larger range of numbers or vanity numbers, there are additional steps required to ensure SecureCo can fulfil these requirements with our international carriage partners.
A special toll-free number is a phone number that is designed for a specific purpose or provides a unique service. Unlike standard toll-free numbers that start with 800, 888, 877, or 866, unique toll-free numbers may start with different codes, such as 844, 855, 877, 888, or others.
Some examples of special toll-free numbers include:
- Vanity numbers: These are toll-free numbers that are customized to spell out a particular word or phrase using the letters on a telephone keypad. For example, 1-800-FLOWERS.
- Disaster relief numbers: These are toll-free numbers that are set up during natural disasters or other emergencies to provide information and assistance to affected individuals.
- Government hotlines: These are toll-free numbers that provide information and services related to government programs, such as Social Security or Medicare.
- Premium rate numbers: These are toll-free numbers that charge higher rates than standard toll-free numbers, often used for adult entertainment services or other premium content.
Ordering Process
Here are the steps involved.
- Gather the customer requirements, paying particular attention to the desired number pattern and quantity.
- Lodge a signed service order subject to the availability of the special number (s) requested.
- Raise a 'special-number' request via the SecureCo Service Desk, including the customer details and a copy of the provisional signed service order.
- Our provisioning team will confirm the availability and reserve these numbers if they're available, and add them to the customer's account.
- If the requested numbers aren't available, our team will provide alternative options for consideration and reserve them for 2 days. After that period the service order will be cancelled.
What is a number pattern?
A number pattern refers to a specific sequence of digits that a customer requests for their toll-free number. For example, a customer may want a toll-free number that follows a particular pattern, such as +1 833 xxx 1010, where "xxx" can be any three digits.
Approximate Delivery
5-10 business days
Cancellation Fees
Customers can be subject to cancellation fees or reversal fees should they change their minds. Cancellation fees are equal to some of the cost of the numbers requested.