Posted on August 5, 2010 by smsgov
Medical questions nationwide can be answered with a new pharmacy toll free hotline. Another new way toll free numbers help businesses and consumers. Members of Rite Aid’s free wellness+ customer rewards program now can reach a pharmacist 24 hours per day. Wellness+ members benefits from the 24/7 toll-free phone access to a pharmacist by calling toll-free 1-800-RITEAID. (Great custom number) They will be asked for their wellness+ card number then connected to a pharmacist.
Filed under: Information | Tagged: 1 800 numbers, 1-800, 1-800-RITEAID, toll free numbers | Leave a comment »
Posted on August 5, 2010 by smsgov
In this business, we get a lot of questions about international toll free service. It’s actually a very simple process. With the right toll free service, you can speak to your clients no matter where you are—even if you are traveling outside the United States or Canada. International toll free allows U.S. clients to place toll free calls to any business no matter where it is located. If the business owner or sales representative is traveling, or even living, outside the United States they can still communicate with their clients and continue to expand their business. If a business is set up outside of the U.S. the owner can set up a special international toll free number to attract new American customers and to retain relationships with their existing U.S. customers. Many, but not all, toll free carriers offer international options.
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Posted on August 3, 2010 by smsgov
Last year, there was a call for the owners of unused toll free numbers to retire their dormant 1-800 numbers back to the main database for use by others. Perhaps it is time for another call to action. With an estimated 8,000 numbers registered each day, and more than two-thirds of the supply already taken, there is a real concern about the limited stock of available numbers and the impact on small businesses. The limited availability of new toll free numbers, coupled with the limited turnover of used numbers, have created an intense demand for the remaining toll free numbers. Retire those unused numbers!
Filed under: Information | Tagged: 1-800, 800 numbers, database, retired toll free number, toll free numbers, toll free use | Leave a comment »
Posted on August 1, 2010 by smsgov
The idea of toll free rationing is one that evokes a lot of response. There has been a lot of discussion about the dearth of good 1-800 numbers, and some are now wondering if the federal government will start rationing again at some point if new numbers aren’t released. Rationing is not a new concept. After 800 numbers ran dry in 1995 the federal government rationed numbers until the 888 numbers were launched a year later. Rationing toll free numbers is not good news for entrepreneurs about to launch a new business.
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Posted on August 1, 2010 by smsgov
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. Available numbers on the database are assigned to subscribers on a first-come, first-served, basis. SS/800 keeps records on the status of all 800 numbers, service providers, and call routing options. When an 800 number is disconnected, it goes into what is referred to as the aging process. After several months, it becomes available on the SMS/800 database.
Filed under: Information | Tagged: 1-800, database, sms, sms-800, sms800, toll free | Leave a comment »
Posted on July 31, 2010 by smsgov
Although we have discussed this on this site previously, it seems there are still some misunderstandings about the FCC’s role in toll free practice. The FCC does not play a role in the assignment of numbers to subscribers, however they do regulate the guidelines under which 1-800 numbers can be used and obtained. For instance, 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 and phone companies.
Filed under: Information | Tagged: 1-800, telecommunications, toll free, toll free number, toll free services | Leave a comment »
Posted on July 30, 2010 by smsgov
Many news reports on how to succeed in the business world during a recession are providing advice that we here in the telecommunications industry have long known—that the value of a 1-800 number cannot be underestimated. A toll free number lends credibility to any business, enhances customer service, and increases customer confidence. Studies show that sales can double and word of mouth referrals can increase by as much as 200% making toll free service indispensible for all types of business.
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Posted on July 29, 2010 by smsgov
When getting a full service toll free/virtual office system, advise your clients to carefully consider the options. For instance, they should think carefully before getting the type of automated system that may turn off potential customers. These systems can be effective for some types of businesses: but they can be a detriment for many others. Consider whether an automated system matches a company’s image. If they do decide to go with an IVR system, buying one instead of renting one typically makes more financial sense.
Filed under: Information | Tagged: 1-800, automated, IVR, toll free, virtual office | 1 Comment »
Posted on July 29, 2010 by smsgov
In recent years, the limited availability of new toll free numbers has created an intense and competitive demand for valuable 800, 888, 877 and 866 numbers. Following the emergence of a black market for these numbers, sources say federal authorities are cracking down on illegal toll free practices, including reports of attempts to sell or lease numbers off eBay. Let’s hope so.
With depleted supplies leading to a growth of illegal hoarding and leasing practices, experts say it is imperative that subscribers be informed on the proper acquisition and use of toll free numbers. Its incumbent upon the FCC and telecommunications companies to educate subscribers.
Filed under: Information | Tagged: 1-800, 800 numbers, toll free hoarding, toll free numbers | Leave a comment »
Posted on July 28, 2010 by smsgov
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.
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Toll Free Service Management System News 