Is 1300 toll free: the difference between 1800 and 1300 numbers

1800 numbers are widely recognised as business numbers not only in Australia, but around the world. Due to its popularity, people often confuse it with 1300 numbers. Questions like, ‘Is 1300 toll free?’ and ‘What’s the difference between 1800 and 1300 numbers?’ are some of the queries we get on a daily basis. To make it easy for you to decide which type of inbound number is a better fit for your business, we’ve put together a quick and easy guide to differentiating the two.

The similarities

We’ll start off by discussing the things that 1300 and 1800 numbers have in common. Both are virtual numbers that can only be used for incoming calls. These services are run over existing phone lines and route calls to your preferred answer point—landline, mobile, VoIP, or even a phone answering service. They are easy to set-up, configure, and completely portable.

Types of 1300 and 1800 numbers

There are two kinds of inbound numbers: Normal Issue and Smartnumbers. Normal issue numbers are made up of random digits, and are directly sold by carriers. If you are on a tight budget and prefer a basic 1300/1800 number, this is your best option.

If you need a number that’s easy to recall and have a little more to spend, Smartnumbers is the way to go. Also known as phone words, these are the best available numbers for business. These are the numbers that spell out words when dialed on a keypad or come in numerical patterns. You can buy the rights of use to these directly from the ACMA website before getting them connected to the telco of your choice.

1800 toll free numbers vs. 1300 local call numbers

Only a single factor distinguishes one from the other—cost. The cost of 1800 numbers is completely covered by the account holder, while the cost of 1300 numbers is split between the account holder and the caller.

Also known as free call numbers, 1800 numbers can be called from any fixed line and most mobile phones in Australia at no cost to the caller. The business is charged based on the origin of the call and the rates determined by their chosen plan.

So are 1300 numbers free? Calls to 1300 numbers from any fixed line in Australia are typically billed at local call rates. The account holder also pays a share of the cost per call and a monthly service fee. Are 1300 numbers free to call from mobiles? A majority of carriers include free 1300 calls in their offerings. The cost of 1300 calls may vary based on your callers’ current phone plan.

Finding the right fit

Budget-wise, 1300 numbers cost a little less since the cost is split between you and your clients. If you’re working with a fixed budget and your market is local, this is a good option for you. Since callers pay a local rate, you can weed out cold calls and nuisance callers, and put focus on your paying customers.

If you need an after-sales or support line, a free call number is a better choice. Covering all costs is a simple way to thank customers for their business. Plus, if they have an issue with their product or service, the last thing you want to do is make them worry about how being on the phone with you will cost them.

To make the choice easier, consult with an inbound number specialist like 1300 Numbers Australia. If you have any other questions similar to ‘Is 1300 toll free?’ don’t hesitate to consult our friendly team. Just give us a call at 1300 50 10 50 or visit our official website at www.1300numbersaustralia.com.au.