Searching for a simple yet powerful way to connect with your customers and provide excellent service? Consider 1800 numbers, a virtual toll-free service that allows callers nationwide to dial your business for free.
Keep reading for a complete guide to 1800 numbers and how they can enhance your customer service, branding and data analytics today.

What is a 1800 number, and what is it used for?

A 1800 number is a toll-free telephone number allowing customers to contact your business for free from anywhere in Australia.

The caller pays nothing to dial this number while the business supports the inbound call cost to enhance customer service, provide granular call reporting and much more.

How do 1800 numbers work?

1800 numbers are often described as 'virtual inbound number' because they do not require physical phone lines and 'piggy-back' other network services. This includes landline, mobile, VoIP (Voice over IP), hosted PBX, Soft Phones, Live Answer, voice to email and more.

The different types of 1800 numbers available

There are two main types of available 1800 numbers. Keep reading to discover whether a generic 1800 number or Flashnumber is best suited for your business needs.

Generic 1800 numbers

A generic number is your standard 1800 toll-free number, allowing customers to make free local calls to a business from anywhere in Australia. This is an effective option for businesses simply looking for a fuss-free way to manage communications.

The numeric pattern for generic numbers is created randomly. This means that they are typically not as easy to remember compared to Flashnumbers and while they cannot be utilised as a marketing tool, they cost less. Ultimately, generic 1800 numbers are a more affordable way to handle incoming customer calls.

1800 Flashnumbers

A 1800 Flashnumber can be a powerful way to build your brand image. Also known as a 'memorable Flash number', this number is often used by businesses looking to leverage it as an effective advertising and lead generation tool.

Characterised by memorable sequences or alphabet characters related to the business (e.g. 1800 FLOWERS), a Flashnumber is distinct and easy to remember.

Such numbers are more expensive than generic 1800 numbers, and the right combination of characters can be a worthwhile investment because they are incredibly memorable.

The easier a number is to recall, the more people are likely to dial in. This can help generate more sales leads and expand your business at a faster rate.

Additionally, 1800 Flashnumbers are excellent for advertising purposes, where features like a catchy 1800 JINGLE can take your branding to the next level.

The cost of a 1800 number

1800 numbers provide customers with a nationwide toll-free service. Therefore, the business incurs any incoming call costs as opposed to the caller.

This is a powerful incentive for customers to contact your business for any support requests, enquiries and more. Lowering barriers such as cost and geographical location allows callers to confidently reach out, knowing that they can expect a simple, fuss-free and top-notch customer experience.

Read on as we break down the costs from a customer and business perspective below.

Cost to the caller

For callers, dialling a 1800 number is completely free from any fixed line within Australia.

Most Australian mobile service providers now offer calls to toll-free numbers without charge, but customers are advised to contact their provider for confirmation.

Incoming calls received from overseas may incur additional fees depending on the service provider.

Cost to the business

At Telcoworks, we offer distinct payment plans designed to suit a range of diverse business budgets. This includes:

Unlimited Calls Promotional Plan: For just $20 per month, unlimited calls inclusive of Small-Business-Grade call management features.

Unlimited Calls Plan: For just $40 per month, unlimited calls inclusive of Small-Business-Grade call management features.

$20 Startup Plan: For just $20 per month, calls cost 20c/minute plus this plan includes Enterprise-Grade call management features with Integrated Voice Response (IVR).

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Benefits of using a 1800 number

There are numerous benefits for using a 1800 number, both from a business and customer perspective.

Let's break down the top benefits of establishing a toll-free service below.

1. Improved Customer Trust

Offering toll-free numbers can strengthen customer relationships and build a trustworthy business reputation.

Existing and potential customers may be hesitant to dial a commercial number if they know it will cost them to do so. This is a significant barrier that can prevent people from contacting you and engaging with your goods and services.

A 1800 number means that any incoming call costs made from a fixed line, and most mobile phones, are covered by the business itself. This is how you can lower barriers to your business and demonstrate your commitment to your customers.

Such toll-free services show customers that you prioritise them, remaining fully accessible to their queries and concerns.

2. Professional Image

1800 numbers are one of the most recognisable methods of driving a professional image. This is vital for building positive brand perception.

Many customers prefer these numbers as they are generally perceived as a professional service provided by large, established businesses. Additionally, they are free to dial from landline phones.

A 1800 number strengthens your business credibility and helps distinguish you from other competitors in the market. Additionally, these numbers are often repeatedly used in a wide variety of advertising which further enhances your professional image.

3. Increased Memorability

1800 toll-free numbers are easier to recall than +61 number alternatives. Customers are more likely to contact a business when they can input a number completely from memory.

Additionally, this can present a crucial branding opportunity for your business, where jingles, catchphrases and slogans can incorporate 1800 numbers for a compelling advertising campaign. Entire campaigns can be built from such numbers alone, granting your brand name the potential to live through collective memory for years.

Pros and cons of a 1800 number

ProsCons
Encourage customer interaction by
removing cost and geographical barriers
Business bears all incoming call costs to
provide a toll-free number for customers
Elevate customer experience by providing
a simple, streamlined contact method
Most, but not all, mobile phone service
providers support free calls to 1800 numbers
Enhance customer trust and build
long-lasting relationships
Overseas inbound calls to 1800 numbers may
incur additional call cost charges
Improve professional image as an
established and wide-reaching business
Some customers may perceive incoming
calls from a 1800 number as telemarketing or spam
Benefit from flexible call routing optionsSome customers may view toll-free 1800
numbers as less personal than local numbers
Heighten lead generation and sales
potential nationwide
Increase memorability with a number
that's easy to recall
Boost brand image with memorable
advertising campaigns e.g. 1800 number
jingle
Enhance call tracking and analytics
to harness invaluable business data
Easily scale customer service and
communications alongside your business
growth
Eliminates need to change business
contact details upon relocation due to
virtual nature of 1800 numbers

How to find the right 1800 number for your business

Now that you are more familiar with the cost of 1800 numbers in Australia, selecting the right number for your business is the next vital step.

There are two types of 1800 numbers you can choose from. This includes 'generic 1800 numbers' and '1800 Flashnumbers'. Both of these options have their advantages, and Telcoworks supports you in matching your business needs with the most suitable toll-free service choice.

Generic 1800 numbers are ideal for startups and small businesses. These numbers are more affordable but may lack distinct memorability as the numeric pattern is randomly generated. This is an effective choice for businesses that are searching for a simple way to manage communications.

1800 Flashnumbers are highly memorable as they are characterised by unique sequences or alphabet characters related to the business. This is perfect for businesses aiming for high-value branding and marketing.

When searching for a service provider, make sure to choose one that offers transparent costs, comprehensive tech support and simple, yet effective, plans. This allows you to invest in your business communications with the confidence and reliability that you require.

Interested in getting a 1800 number for your business?

Looking for a simple, powerful way to connect with your customers? Grow the business while gaining valuable data insight?

Get a 1800 number to enhance your operations and provide top-tier customer service with a best-value solution today.

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Frequently asked questions

Are 1800 numbers free if you call from a mobile?

1800 numbers are generally free if you call from a mobile phone. Most mobile service providers in Australia do not charge customers for such calls. There are some exceptions, so if you are unsure it may be best to directly contact your service provider for confirmation.

Are 1800 numbers free internationally?

You can dial an Australian 1800 number from almost anywhere in the world, provided you have set up call-routing options or your service provider supports international calls. Overseas calls may incur additional call costs, so make sure to contact your telco for further information.

How can I get a 1800 number in Australia?

To get a 1800 number in Australia, search for an Australian toll-free number service provider and apply for a subscription payment plan. Look for a provider that offers transparent costs, robust tech support and straightforward plans that best suit your business needs.

Customer Reviews

What our customers are saying

I called to find out how best to use the services that I had paid for and God blessed me with Ash who picked up... I have in the past found this company to have very good customer support people on the phone, but Ash was just a delight - helpful, ensured I got everything I asked answered and was prompt and professional and knew everything without wasting any time... loved it and 10 stars if they were here
Devin from Telcoworks was super responsive, knowledgeable and problem solved to find and offer solutions that worked for my business. Within a few hours he had set up my international telecommunication needs. I am seriously impressed! Cheers Richard M - The Stylesmiths
Signing up for a 1300 number with Telcoworks for our business was so easy. The value for money is outstanding as we have full control through their easy to use portal. The customer service I received from Kristen to setup what we needed through the portals was also very friendly and easy - thank you

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