How to Obtain an 800 Number for Your Business
In today’s competitive business world, trust and credibility are everything. One of the easiest ways to establish both is by using a toll-free number – especially one that starts with 800. These numbers not only project professionalism but also make it easier for your customers to reach you without incurring call charges. Whether you’re a startup, a growing eCommerce brand, or a national service provider, getting an 800 number is a smart move.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to obtain an 800 number for your business, the benefits of having one, and tips to choose the right provider.
What Is an 800 Number?
An 800 number is a toll-free telephone number in the United States and Canada that allows customers to call your business at no cost to them. The business owner pays for incoming calls, making it a customer-friendly solution. Toll-free numbers can also start with 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, or 833, but 800 is the most recognized and trusted prefix.
Why Your Business Needs an 800 Number
Before we get into the how-to, it’s worth knowing why an 800 number matters for your business:
- Boosts credibility: An 800 number gives your business a nationwide and established appearance.
- Improves customer trust: Customers are more likely to call when it’s free.
- Enhances branding: You can get vanity numbers (e.g., 1-800-FLOWERS) that are easy to remember.
- Better call tracking: Most providers offer advanced analytics for marketing and sales insights.
- Portability: You can keep your 800 number if you switch providers or move offices.
Step-by-Step: How to Obtain an 800 Number for Your Business
Step 1: Choose a Toll-Free Number Provider
Start by selecting a reliable toll-free service provider. You can go with:
- VoIP providers like Grasshopper, RingCentral, or Ooma.
- Phone service carriers such as AT&T, Verizon, or CenturyLink.
- Online number services like eVoice, MightyCall, or Google Voice (for limited toll-free functionality).
Compare their pricing, features, and customer reviews before committing.
Step 2: Select Your 800 Number
Most providers let you search for available numbers. You’ll typically be able to:
- Choose a random 800 number from available options.
- Create a vanity number (e.g., 1-800-PIZZA-GUY) for branding purposes.
- Use alternate toll-free prefixes like 888, 877, or 833 if your preferred number is unavailable.
A memorable number can increase the chance that customers will remember and dial your business.
Step 3: Register the Number and Set Up the Service
Once you’ve selected your number:
- Complete the registration and setup process with your provider.
- Choose your call routing preferences (e.g., forward calls to a mobile or landline).
- Set up voicemail, auto-attendants, or call menus depending on your business needs.
Some platforms allow you to integrate CRM tools, SMS capabilities, or mobile apps for better communication.
Step 4: Activate and Test Your 800 Number
After setup, your provider will activate the number – usually within a few hours to 1–2 business days.
Make sure to:
- Test incoming calls to confirm everything works.
- Check for call quality, voicemail delivery, and routing accuracy.
- Set up call forwarding if you want to redirect calls during non-business hours.
Cost of Getting an 800 Number
The cost of an 800 number varies by provider and features. Here’s what you can typically expect:
- Monthly plans: Start around $10–$30/month for basic packages.
- Per-minute rates: Ranges from $0.03–$0.10 per minute, depending on the provider.
- Setup fees: Some providers charge a one-time fee; others offer free activation.
- Add-ons: Features like call recording, voicemail transcription, or SMS may cost extra.
Look for providers that offer unlimited calling plans or volume discounts if your business expects a high call volume.
Tips for Choosing the Best 800 Number
- Make it memorable: Go for a vanity number that aligns with your brand.
- Check availability early: Popular prefixes like 800 are limited; act fast.
- Look for scalability: Choose a provider that grows with your business.
- Check for portability: Ensure you can transfer your number if needed.
- Review customer support: Opt for providers with 24/7 support in case of issues.
Final Thoughts
Getting an 800 number for your business isn’t just about better communication – it’s about building a brand that’s trusted, accessible, and professional. Whether you run a local service or a nationwide brand, a toll-free number is a low-cost, high-impact tool that can help you improve customer service and drive more sales.
With the right provider and setup, your 800 number can become one of the most powerful marketing assets for your business.
