Spreading The Word

As telecommunications experts, we are actively spreading the word about the scarcity of good toll free numbers. Are we succeeding? Business owners should be educated and prepared for the shortfall at a time when they may need the advantages of toll free the most. With the economy still floundering,  this dearth of available 1-800 numbers comes at a time when economists are advising business owners to shift their marketing tactics to direct response—including using toll free to attract consumers and sustain relationships with existing customers. We know that toll free helps businesses. But getting good numbers, with supplies dwindling, is becoming a challenge. The best advice, still, is to obtain a good toll free phone number today.

What part does the FCC play in toll free phone numbers?

When the popular 800 numbers became scarce, the FCC introduced the 888 and 877 numbers in the mid-1990s and the 866 pre-fix in 2000. Available stock of toll free numbers is quickly depleting and industry insiders are awaiting the release of the 855 numbers currently reserved by the FCC. Insiders say these numbers may not be released for several years.

Read more here.