T.A.C. Discusses Shortages

During a recent discussion with members of the Tollfree Advisory Committee, it was agreed that if the database of toll free numbers isn’t beefed up soon, the finite supply of toll free numbers could run out. Last year, a plea for the deactivation of unused 800 numbers resulted in a temporary surge of numbers returned to the main database. But despite these mass replacements, the supply of available toll free numbers continues to dwindle as thousands of subscribers register for a toll free number each day. It’s time for some action.

Scarcity of Toll Free Numbers Causes Boom in Black Market

As with any commodity in high demand, a black market for toll free numbers is growing. And we here that regulators are scrambling to control the illegal sales of valuable 800 numbers. With toll free service soaring in popularity while finite supplies of available numbers drop, attempts to illegally buy and sell choice numbers on the black market is increasing.

According to regulations enacted in 1997 by FCC, toll free phone numbers cannot be sold or brokered. These rules were approved after the FCC fielded numerous complaints about price gouging for catchy vanity numbers and popular numeric sequences. The FCC reports that anyone caught attempting to sell or broker an 800 number faces significant fines.

Toll Free On Billboard Gets Major Attention

Industry big-wigs are getting more and more creative with the use of toll free telephone numbers. Motorists in metropolitan areas are noticing billboards featuring a toll free number that is in fact a hidden movie advertisement for “The Virginity Hit,” a mockumentary about a teenager trying to lose his virginity. Callers to the toll free number are greeted by an automated message from Zack Pearlman, one of the film’s stars. The movie producers appear to be using a temporary toll free phone number to create a media storm and some controversy which will then bring attention to the movie, made by and featuring unknowns. There are always creative ways to use toll free to boost any type of business.

Concern Grows as Stock Diminishes

Is concern growing about the diminishing stock of 800 numbers? It appears to be. Higher demand for toll free service, especially in this economy, is depleting stocks of good numbers. Studies show that telephone orders can increase up to 60 percent and word of mouth referrals can rise by 200 percent if a toll free number is advertised. These types of statistics bring in thousands of new toll free subscribers every day. And these subscribers want access to a good supply of available numbers.

FCC to Require Faster Porting of Telephone Numbers

The Federal Communications Commission voted to mandate landline phone companies to move faster when their subscribers request moving their phone number to a rival service. The commission requires companies to transfer, or “port,” landline phone numbers within one business day. Wireless numbers are typically ported within one day — in some cases within hours — and the FCC has determined that landline companies should move just as quickly.

How-to Become a T.A.C. Approved Toll Free Resporg

The application process consists of three main steps:

1. Fill out and submit the 10 page Service Establishment Form.
2. Send your deposit to the SMS800 Help Desk. (about $4000)
3. Study for and pass the certification test

You can begin the application process by clicking here

Advisory Note: Do Your Research

1-800 numbers are available from large phone companies and from federally approved toll free service providers, Responsible Organizations. These smaller companies have the same access to the database of available phone numbers as AT&T and Verizon. However, service fees and features can vary greatly so the best thing we can do is to advise subscribers to research several toll free providers before signing up.

A Mad Rush for 855 Numbers

There is no doubt about it-when the 855 toll free area codes are released, there will be a mad rush to obtain the best numbers. Companies will want vanity numbers that match their image, type of business, and domain names. Those who are prepared in advance will reap the many benefits of an 855 toll free phone number. It is time for consumers to learn how to obtain their own custom 855 number as soon as the pool becomes available. Potential subscribers should contact a reputable toll free service provider and learn how to prepare to get a new custom 855 toll free phone number.

FCC is Final Word in Toll Free Service

The FCC does not play a role in the assignment of new toll free numbers. Instead, they regulate the guidelines under which 1-800 numbers can be used and obtained. For instance, the FCC has declared that the hoarding and warehousing of numbers is prohibited and punishable with severe fines—recently illustrated by a citation for an $11,000 fine each day a California company continued to implement improper toll free practices. Numbers are assigned by toll free carriers (resp. orgs) and phone companies. Subscribers have the option of shopping around for the best quality and the best rates.

Relieve Demand By Retiring Unused Numbers

With the availability of new 1-800 numbers rapidly declining as demand for toll free service skyrockets, industry insiders are urging the owners of unused toll free numbers to release them back into the system.

Read more here.