Should you lease or buy 1300 numbers?

Deciding to get a 1300 number is one of the best decisions you can make for your business. But before you start enjoying the numerous benefits of having one, you must first decide whether to lease or buy 1300 numbers. Here is a quick guide to help you make the right decision.

Normal Issue vs. Smartnumbers

Before anything else, you must first determine what type of 1300 number you would like to have. All inbound numbers (13, 1300 & 1800 numbers) belong to the Australian government. What you buy or lease is the Rights of Use (RoU) for the said number. You have the option to choose between Normal Issue numbers and Smartnumbers.

Normal issue numbers are regular, pooled numbers that are available directly from telcos. You get normal rights of use for these numbers, similar to what you have for your mobile number. On the other hand, Smartnumbers spell out words or come in highly memorable patterns that give them high recall ability. These have extended rights of use which allow them to be leased out to a third party.

Leasing 1300 numbers

The RoU of Smartnumbers are typically purchased by phoneword companies and other telcos from the government. This allows them to lease them out to customers looking for a particular 1300 number. Before deciding to lease, you must know that there are 2 models for leasing a 1300 number.

Leasing a number for exclusive use means the provider will give you sole rights to it for as long as you pay the monthly leasing charge. Another way of leasing is for shared use. This simply means that one number can be leased out to different businesses in separate regions or exchanges. Calls will be routed to a specific business based on where the call is originating from. The RoU stays with you uyas long as you pay the monthly fee.

Buying 1300 numbers

Another option is to buy the RoU for the 1300 number. Normal issue numbers can be purchased directly from telcos. Make sure to check your selected telco’s website to check for those with patterns or repeating digits if memorability is your priority. These numbers stay active as long as it is connected to a provider and your account is in good standing.

The process of buying Smartnumbers is a little bit different. You need to register at www.thenumberingsystem.com.au, browse through available 1300 numbers, and purchase it directly from the site. Prices start at $250. Once you’ve bought the RoU of the number, go to a trusted service provider to have it connected. You have the added rights to sell this number or keep it disconnected for up to 3 years.

Leasing vs. Buying

You should only lease if the number you want is only available for lease in the area where you do business. Keep in mind that this number may be used by competitors in the same line of business in other areas.

Buying your 1300 number is still the best option if you want full control of your number for the entire life of your business. You can keep the same number when you move, and even take it to another provider.

Whatever you choose, make sure that you work with a provider that will give you reasonable charges for the service you’re getting. We at 1300 Numbers Australia would be happy to help you make the right decision for your business. Call us at 1300 50 10 50 to talk one of our business consultants today.