Are 0345 Numbers Free? 0345 Numbers Cost and More Explained

Are you not sure if calling 0345 numbers is free or part of your plan, or are you concerned about unexpected charges? You are not alone. Many individuals and businesses are confused about the costs and advantages of these non-geographic numbers. 

The good news? 0345 numbers are typically designed to be affordable and are often covered within your mobile or landline plan. 

In this guide, we clarify your confusion by explaining how 0345 numbers work, their actual cost, and why they are the best choice for saving money.

What Are 0345 Numbers? 

0345 numbers are a special type of number used in the UK. They are referred to as “non-geographic numbers.” This basically means that they are not tied to a specific location like traditional landline numbers. 

0345 numbers are popular for their cost structure. However, they charge the same rate as your landline numbers, except if you have included these numbers in your call plan. Calls to this number are usually covered in almost all mobile and landline packages, saving you the extra charges.

These numbers are ideal for businesses and organizations as they offer flexibility. They especially help the B2C model, making it easier for them to serve customers nationwide without being tied to one location. 

Callers often choose 0345 numbers because they don’t carry extra charges like other numbers. In short, these numbers are affordable alternatives for businesses to stay connected with their customers. 

What are the Benefits of 0345 Numbers for Businesses?

0345 numbers are not only contact numbers; they are tools for businesses to build trust and enhance customer experience. These numbers provide a wide range of benefits to businesses. Some key benefits are discussed below:

Nationwide Presence

Unlike geographic numbers (e.g., those starting with 01 or 02), 0345 numbers aren’t tied to a specific area. This means your business can operate anywhere in the UK while still maintaining a consistent contact point.

For customers, it creates a perception of being accessible and available no matter where they’re located.

Affordable for Customers

0345 numbers cost the same as calling a local landline number and are often included in free minutes on mobile and phone systems. 

Customers are more likely to call your business when they know it won’t cost them extra, removing the fear of high call charges. This affordability increases customer engagement and satisfaction.

Enhanced Trust and Customer Experience

0345 numbers build trust by offering affordable, transparent call rates, reassuring customers they won’t face hidden charges. Their professional, non-geographic nature boosts credibility, while features like call routing ensure quick assistance. 

Customers appreciate the consistency of a single, easy-to-remember number, which enhances their experience and strengthens their connection with your business.

Professional Image

Having a non-geographic 0345 number signals professionalism and reliability. It shows your business has a national or even global reach, which builds trust with customers. 

Plus, because 0345 numbers aren’t premium-rate, customers won’t associate your company with hidden costs or unfair charges.

Call Routing Flexibility

0345 numbers allow you to redirect calls to different locations, devices, or departments, ensuring a seamless customer experience. 

Whether your team is working remotely, in a call center, or across multiple offices, the call routing feature helps ensure every customer gets through to the right person without unnecessary delays.

Are 0345 Numbers Free to Call?

0345 numbers are not free to call, but they are generally affordable. The cost to call these numbers is the same as calling standard landline numbers, which means they are often included in the free minutes offered by most mobile and landline call plans. 

This makes it easy for customers to reach businesses without worrying about high charges.

If your plan includes free minutes, you can call 0345 numbers without any extra cost. However, if you exceed your allowance or are on a Pay-As-You-Go plan, you will incur standard rates. 

Unlike premium-rate numbers, which can lead to unexpected fees, 0345 numbers are designed to be straightforward and fair for consumers. 

So, while they’re not free, they’re typically inexpensive and accessible, making them a practical choice for businesses and customers alike.

How Much Does It Cost to Call an 0345 Number?

Calling 0345 numbers is affordable, usually at the same business rate as standard phone lines. However, most landline and mobile phone call plans include free calls to 0345 numbers. If you exceed the plan limit, you will be charged the regular per-minute rate fixed by the provider. 

To call a 0345 number from a landline typically costs 10p-15p per minute, depending on the provider. However, calling 0345 numbers from mobile can cost a little higher, from 15p-65p per minute. Remember that this is the cost charged if you have no plans purchased. 

To conclude, short calls to 0345 numbers lasting up to 5 minutes can cost around 50p to £2.50. Longer calls, up to 20 minutes, can cost between £2 and £ 10 without bundles. Include these calls in your plan to save money. 

How to Save Money When Calling 0345 Numbers?

Learning some tips and tricks can help you save money while calling 0345 numbers. Let’s look at some of them:

Using Bundled Minutes

Most landline and mobile number providers provide plans that include free calls to 0345 numbers. Check if these free calls are included in your plan. If they are, use bundled minutes to call these numbers and avoid extra charges. 

Switch to a Better Provider

Some service providers charge higher rates for calling these numbers or don’t even include them in their plans. If you are using one of them, then it’s time to switch to a provider with more competitive plans. 

Choose the provider that includes free calls to 0345 numbers in their plans and minimize the additional costs. 

Use Alternative Contact Methods

Look for alternative methods to contact businesses to save on extra call charges. Businesses offer other methods to contact like email or online forms on their sites. These free and quick options are best for resolving queries and saving additional call charges. 

How to Get a 0345 Number for Your Business?

A 0345 number is a good option to improve your business’s professional image and make it accessible nationwide. If you are confused to how to get one, these steps will help you:

Choose a Telecom Provider

Various telecom providers offer 0345 numbers. Select the reputable one that best fits your needs. Compare the features, pricing, and customer support and choose the best one. Also, look for customer reviews to make sure that the provider is reliable. 

Select Your Number

After deciding on the telecom provider, it’s time to choose a 0345 number. Choose memorable and easy-to-recall numbers that make it trouble-free for customers to contact you. Also, make sure that the number is easy to associate with your business. 

Decide on Additional Features

Add some must-have additional features to your plan. These features may include call routing, call recording, voicemail, etc, that improve customer service. Ensure the add-ons you chose offer value to the customer and enhance their calling experience. 

Sign Up and Set Up

Sign up by filling out the required application forms and providing business documents if needed. Then, you are all set up to use the 0345 number. Before going live, verify the number’s functionality by making test calls. 

Promote Your New Number

Update your marketing materials like social media and websites to inform customers about your new 0345 numbers. 

Using a 0345 number is a smart strategy for improving your business’s credibility and making it accessible across the country. 

By choosing the right service provider, adding features to your needs, and effectively promoting the number, you can facilitate smooth communication and present a professional image for your business.

Wrapping Up

Using a 0345 number for business is the best way to enhance the customer’s trustworthiness and remain remarkable nationally. These non-geographic phone numbers help companies to expand without having to buy a new number. 

A 0345 number is affordable and even free if included in a phone system or mobile plan. This helps businesses to improve customer engagement and build a professional image. 

By adding a 0345 number, business owners can make it easier for their customers to connect with them and build trust—all without breaking the bank. It’s a small step with big benefits for your business!

FAQs

Is a 0345 number free from a mobile?

No, 0345 numbers are not typically free from a mobile. However, most mobile plans include them as free. Otherwise, the standard charge of 15p to 65p is applied for the call. 

Who uses 0345 numbers?

Businesses, governments, and non-profit organizations commonly use 0345 numbers. They are ideal for creating a nationwide presence and providing affordable call options for customers.

How to get a 0345 number?

To get a 0345 number, contact a reputable telecom provider offering non-geographic numbers. Some famous providers are Virgin Media, BT, Number Supermarket, etc. Compare the plans, prices, and features and select one that best fits your needs. 

Can I call 0345 numbers from abroad?

Yes, you can call 0345 numbers from abroad, but international call rates will apply. Check with your service provider for specific charges before making the call.

Which country code is 0345?

0345 is not a country code, it is a non-geographic number prefix used in the UK by businesses. 

Are 0345 numbers included in my allowance?

Yes, calls to 0345 numbers are generally included in your mobile or landline’s inclusive minute allowance. Check the specifics of your plan provided by the service provider. If you exceed your allowance, standard call charges will be applied. 

Which SIM code is 0345?

0345 is not a SIM code; it is a non-geographic number prefix used for businesses and organizations in the UK. It is not tied to any specific mobile network or SIM card.