UK number types
The UK numbers you can order (geographic, 03, freephone 0800 and 0808, and virtual mobile 07 numbers), what each is for, and how to order them.
You can order several kinds of UK number in Services › Phone numbers. Each one is added to your call flow in the same way, with an Inbound number object in the PBX.
Which number to choose
Section titled “Which number to choose”| Number | What it is | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Geographic (01 and 02) | A local number for a town or city, for example 020 for London. | A local presence in the areas you serve. |
| UK-wide (03) | A national number that isn’t tied to an area. Calls to 03 numbers cost callers the same as calls to 01 and 02 numbers, and they’re usually included in callers’ call allowances. | One number for the whole country. |
| Freephone (0800 and 0808) | A national number that’s free for callers. You pay for the incoming calls. | Sales and support lines that customers shouldn’t pay to call. |
| Virtual mobile (07) | A mobile number that rings your phone system instead of a SIM. These are the only UK numbers that can send and receive SMS. | Texting customers, and a mobile number on your business card. |
Service-charge numbers (084 and 087) can also be ordered. Callers pay a service charge to call them, so they suit only some uses.
Order a number
Section titled “Order a number”- Go to Services › Phone numbers and open the Order new numbers tab.
- Choose the kind of number:
- For a geographic number, leave the toggles off and choose the Area.
- For a 03, 0800 or 0808 number, turn on Toll-free and special numbers.
- For a virtual mobile number, turn on Mobile numbers. SMS shows only numbers that can send and receive SMS.
- Under Available numbers, tick the numbers you want. They move to Selected numbers.
- Check the cost in Order summary. Some numbers have an activation fee as well as a monthly fee. Prices shown in the portal include VAT.
- Tick Agree to service terms and conditions and click Submit order.
Then add the number to your call flow: see Order phone numbers.
Freephone call costs
Section titled “Freephone call costs”Calls to your 0800 or 0808 number are free for the caller, so the incoming calls are charged to you. The cost depends on the number’s call plan. Ask the support team which plan suits the number of calls you expect.
Keep a number you already have
Section titled “Keep a number you already have”To move a UK number from another provider instead of ordering a new one, see Port your numbers in the UK.