Toll free

We have always had the ability to make a toll free phone call by simply placing a collect call. The operator would request permission from the call recipient to accept the collect call and essentially pay for it. Not convenient for businesses!

Over time, phone systems developed from manual exchanges, to electro-mechanical exchanges, to the computer-controlled direct dial systems we use today.

What are the Characteristics of a Toll Free Number?

• A toll free number centralizes your business. Even if you have multiple branches or stores in other cities or states, you can use one number for all locations.
• It’s easier for customers to remember your number.
• It’s free for your customers to call.
• It is unique and transportable.
• Toll free numbers are easily transferable between phone systems. If you need a bigger phone system, you do not have to change your number.
• A toll free number is not enough on its own. Make sure that your business is ready to take on the increased volume and attention it will receive.

What Really is a Toll Free Number?

There are two kinds of toll freenumbers: numeric numbers such as 800 555 555 55, and vanity numbers, which include a name or catchy string of letters that spell out a word or phrase.

According to Wikipedia, a toll free number is a special telephone number that is free for the caller. The telephone carrier charges the called party (that’s you) for the cost of the call.

They can be used to directly dial your business or private number, and are portable between telephone service providers.

What can a toll free number do for my business?

About 90% of Americans say they use toll free numbers to do business. Of course, these numbers are used to make and receive calls. Users have reported increases in traffic volume, resulting in increased business. But the good news doesn’t just stop there.

Because toll free numbers are free to call, customers are more likely to resolve a product issue over the phone, instead of simply returning the product. This can decrease product returns by up to 50%.

• Customers respond more easily to advertisements with toll free numbers.

Toll free numbers also come with a variety of helpful features such as call forwarding, voicemail, and unlimited extensions. As your phone system grows, so does your business.

Toll free numbers can also help to track and manage your marketing efforts. This is because you can create extensions that are associated with a particular marketing message. The extension number could also be associated with a particular area that the caller is calling from. Valuable information indeed!

So…Now What Are You Going To Do?

If you want to take advantage of toll free numbers, give Custom Toll Free a call. We’ll be more than happy to help you gain a marketing advantage. With a variety of toll free number prefixes to choose from, we can help to find the perfect vanity number spelling for your business. With our marketing tools, you will be equipped with the best options for measuring your success and helping your customers in the best way possible.