Possible Meltdown Has Toll-free Providers On Edge

Telecommunications industry sources now say an unthinkable embargo on new toll free phone service in the United States is a real possibility within the next year. Facing a severe shortage of available 800-numbers, a skyrocketing demand for toll free service and an emerging black market for 800 numbers, insiders say officials feel they are left with no choice but to impose an embargo.

Read more here.

The Details Are Important

Pay close attention to the small print when subscribing for toll free service. Work with a reliable and established service provider who will be sure to guide you to the best options and features available. Toll free phone service should offer customers features and price points that meet their individual needs. Subscribers should never encounter any surprise fees or get locked into an unbreakable contract. Don’t pay for features you won’t likely use. Find a good provider and work with an experienced staff.

Toll Free Numbers Help Preserve Profits

Economic stress starting in late 2008 and the continuing through 2009 has led to the closings of thousands of retail stores. Nonetheless, many of these companies have stayed profitable through phone and web sales. The majority of sales from catalog and websites are still made through toll free phone calls. And these days, large chain stores like WalMart and Target offer shoppers the convenience of buying over the phone (800-966-6546 WalMart; 800-440-0680, Target). Toll free has helped many retail companies, large and small, stay afloat during this recession.

SMSGOV is Here to Help

When advising our toll free customers, it is important that we steer them toward selecting a number that suits their company image and one that can be easily recalled by their consumers and clients. We also must take the time to remind them to always include their 800 numbers on your business cards, brochures, website, and to advertise the number liberally. Our advice as telecommunications experts is invaluable to business owners using toll free as a marketing strategy.

Virtual Office Can Mean Big Savings

Virtual office systems coupled with toll free phone numbers are quickly becoming the preferred way to do business throughout the U.S. And anyone can easily, and affordably, mimic a corporate phone set-up in any home or small office space–or even from various remote locations–without pricey installations and new equipment. Customers who call will have the sense of a well-equipped and well-staffed headquarters. Business owners can save money by keeping overhead costs to a minimum by reducing office rental space and utility costs by implementing a creative virtual system .

Price of 800 Numbers Expected to Increase

Due to the ongoing scarcity of 800 area code phone numbers, recent reports are indicating that phone companies are beginning to raise the cost to obtain 800 numbers.

Many providers are expected to follow suit.

Also Read:

The Toll Free Ration Bill

Proposed Ration Bil

800 Numbers Running Low

Clearing Up Mixed Messages About Toll Free

There appears to be some mixed messages circulating out there about whether the dire need for new toll free phone numbers will result in a dreaded rationing program. Some say it could still occur–and it just might. But the good news is that the industry expects the long-awaited release of new toll free numbers (presumably the 855 area code numbers) and that increased supply of open numbers could prevent rationing, reduce the black market for premium numbers, and will open the doors for thousands and thousands of subscribers to obtain a creative new phone number. Stay tuned.

Get Creative

Creative marketing begins with a perfectly-matched toll free number and domain name. With the expected release of new toll free numbers within the next couple of years, all subscribers can get even more creative with their company’s phone number and domain name. To get the most from every marketing dollar, select a toll free vanity number that is a good fit for your image, match a domain name, and work with well-respected service providers who will protect your interests and help you make decisions that will enhance and expand your business.

Unfortunately Prices of 800 Numbers May Go Up

Due to the ongoing scarcity of 800 area code phone numbers, recent reports are indicating that phone companies are beginning to raise the cost to obtain 800 numbers.

Many providers are expected to follow suit.

Also Read:

The Toll Free Ration Bill

Proposed Ration Bil

800 Numbers Running Low

New Numbers A Boon For Personal Numbers Too

The pending turn-around we expect in the toll free phone industry in the next 18 months will not only help businesses–it will also help those looking for new toll free numbers for personal use. The “turn-around” we refer to is the anticipated release of new supplies of toll free numbers. Families and parents seeking their own toll free number will have an ample new supply to obtain creative vanity numbers that incorporate their last names, their street names, pet names or any other memorable phrases so their family and friends always recall their phone number!