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.

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.

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.

Toll Free Service Preferred Over Standard Land Lines

According to the Federal Communications Commission 1-800, 888, 877 and 866 numbers are increasingly popular for businesses and for personal use. With no plans for the addition of new numbers, the existing supply is quickly depleting.

Experts say that consumers recognize that many of the advantages of 1-800 numbers outweigh standard local phone service. Toll free service is becoming increasingly common with parents wishing to keep in close contact with children and teens. Businesses with a 1-800 number see increases in sales, word of mouth referrals and a decrease in product returns. Standard local phone service does not provide any of these advantages.

Read more here.

Rural Agricultural Development Authority Establishes Toll Free Hotline

The Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) has launched a toll free number 1-888-429-5723 aimed at helping farmers obtain valuable agricultural information without being concerned about the cost. The toll free line will not only help to reduce farmers’ communication expenses, but will allow for quick access to credible technical information related to their operations. Another way toll free helps society and brings information to a community.

Getting Toll Free Service is Simple

Getting toll free service has ever been easier. Service providers assign and reserve numbers off the database for their customers on a first-come, first-served basis. To get started, subscribers simply contact a service provider, find a suitable vanity number or numerical sequence, and then sign on for service. The process can’t get much simpler than that.

SMSGOV’s List of Approved Toll Free Providers

In addition to the complete list of toll free telephone companies SMSGOV.com maintains; SMS-GOV.US also maintains a list of approved Toll Free Service Providers. We have compiled the full list here:

Toll Free Review FCCs Domain

The FCC has a long history of reviewing legislation with regard to the use of toll free. For instance, the Telecommunications Act of 1996 amended section 228 to impose more stringent restrictions on the use of toll-free numbers to charge consumers for information services. On July 11, 1996, the Commission amended its rules governing interstate pay-per-call (900 numbers) and other information services to address abusive practices that threatened public confidence in toll-free numbers and left telephone subscribers vulnerable to unexpected charges for calls and information services.

FCC Takes Strong Stance Against Illegal Practices

Attempts to profit from the illegal sale of 800, 888, 877, and 866 numbers are in response to rapidly dwindling supplies. Thee FCC rules were established and are very clear. Hoarding and Brokering of toll free phone numbers is unlawful. Our experts advise anyone interested in obtaining an 800 number should legally obtain a toll free number through a reliable toll free service provider.