Toll Free Scarce, But Attainable

Recent news reports have revealed a drastic reduction in accessible, quality, toll free numbers nationwide. These reports have spurred concerns that accessible toll free numbers will soon run dry. Supplies of numbers may, indeed, be low however there are still carriers that can provide their customers with a good supply of toll free numbers that will suit the needs of their business or non-profit. The trick is to research carriers and find one that offers an ample pool of numbers. Subscribers can still attain good numbers from experienced and reliable carriers.

All About CALEA

As part of an investigation, law enforcement agencies or intelligence services can tap into a phone call or trace the origin of the call without advising any of the parties involved in the communications.

Read more here.

Wall Street Journal Touts Toll Free

The Wall Street Journal recently touted toll free numbers: “…having a toll-free number is quite cheap these days when you consider the benefits it can offer a fledgling business. Making it easier for prospective customers to call — and to remember what to dial — will only boost call volume, and your sales potential.” The Wall Street Journal also stated “Studies have found that toll-free numbers used in advertising produce many more calls than standard phone numbers.”

What Role Does the FCC Have in Toll Free 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.

Scarcity Causes Concern

An unprecedented decrease in the availability of 1-800 numbers in 2008 has telecommunications experts concerned about the depletion of quality available numbers within the toll free sector. Recently, a member of the Tollfree Advisory Committee at SMSGOV.com said this scarcity of really good numbers is causing a rush to get new toll free numbers. Toll free phone numbers are considered one of the best marketing tools, particular during recessionary financial times.

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 Role Does the SMS800 Play?

The SMS/800 Data Center houses the main database of available toll free 800, 888, 877 and 866 phone numbers for the United States and Canada. The SMS/800 maintains and updates the database and keeps records of the owners of each number and the service providers. Available numbers on the database are assigned to subscribers on a first-come, first-served, basis.

Read more here.

Toll Free Applications Continue To Rise

In the past year, the telecommunications industry has seen a steady increase in toll free subscribers. It appears to be in response to recent reports about the rapid decline of available 800 numbers, coupled with growing public awareness about the effectiveness of having a 1-800 number. A steady stream of requests are pouring in for toll free 800, 888, 877, and 866 numbers and applications. In recent years, reports indicate that an average of 8,000 new toll free numbers have been assigned daily. If this number continues to increase, and the reserved 855 numbers are not released, the shortage of available numbers will eventually have a detrimental impact on new businesses.

Proposed Toll-free Ration Bill May Be Reintroduced With Changes.

Growing concern about the limited stock of 800 numbers is creating an even higher demand. The FCC cites toll free service as a “proven” marketing tool for increasing and sustaining business. In fact, studies show that telephone orders can increase up to 60 percent and word of mouth referrals can rise by 200 percent. American adults report that they make an average of 60 toll free calls per year.

Read more here.

FEMA Utilizes Toll Free

To address spring and summer flooding and other natural emergencies, FEMS offers a toll free service to provide aide and information. Anyone who has suffered hardships due to a natural emergency can seek assistance. Call 1-800-621-FEMA for more details. Hearing and speech impaired applicants with TTY equipment can call 1-800-462-7585.