How To Call China From the UK? A Complete Guide

Want to chat with your bestie in Beijing, seal a business deal in Shanghai, or just say “ni hao” to your grandma in Guangzhou? With over 1.76 billion mobile connections in China (yes, that’s more phones than people!), staying in touch has never been more vital or more fun.

But let’s face it: calling China might seem like deciphering a treasure map. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. In this lively guide, you’ll learn how to dial up China like a pro, avoid pesky phone charges, and maybe even impress your contacts with how easy you make it look. 

This comprehensive guide will take you through every detail of the process, ensuring that your calls are smooth, timely, and cost-effective.

Understanding China Phone Number Format

Understanding the format of a phone number in China can go a long way to make calling much easier. Its numbering system is constructed for the country’s massive population and geographic diversity, therefore guaranteeing efficient communication with different regions.

A little understanding of the structure and components of Chinese phone numbers is important to successfully call China from the UK. Here is the detailed breakdown:

1. Country Code

China’s country code is +86. Anyone calling internationally to China, whether you are dialing from the UK or any other country of the world, will need this code dialed first before the number being dialed starts. It acts as the most important identity to lead a call to the telecommunication network of China. There can be no call connection made to a Chinese number if this code is not utilized or dialed first.

2. Area Code

Area codes in China are used for landline numbers and vary depending on the city or region. Major metropolitan areas typically have shorter, 2-digit area codes, while smaller cities and rural areas often have 3-digit codes. These area codes are critical when dialing landline numbers, especially from outside the region or internationally

Examples

• Beijing: 10

• Shanghai: 21

• Guangzhou: 20

• Chengdu: 28
• Smaller regions: Codes like 312 or 451

When calling a landline within the same area in China, you can omit the area code. However, if you’re calling from another province or country, including the area code is essential.

3. Local Number

Landlines

Mainland Chinese landline numbers are usually 8 digits long, coming after the area code. These are assigned to individual households or businesses in the various regions, so China’s landlines can be dialed directly. For those persons or entities keeping contacts in China, knowledge of the proper format ensures seamless communication sans problems related to CC routes and connectivity.

Mobile Phones

Mobile numbers in China are always 11 digits long and begin with 1, followed by a service provider-specific prefix such as 138, 152, 186, and others. These prefixes indicate the mobile network operator, such as China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom. Mobile numbers are not tied to specific geographic regions, providing flexibility for cost-effective calls at standard rates. This portability is particularly beneficial for maintaining contacts in China and making communication seamless nationwide.

How to call China from the Uk

Step 1: Dial the international exit code for the UK.

The UK’s exit code is 00.

Step 2: Dial the China country code.

China’s country code is +86.

Step 3: Dial the area code (if applicable).

For calls to a specific region in China, include the area code. Below are examples of area codes:

• Beijing: 10
• Shanghai: 21
• Guangzhou: 20
• Shenzhen: 755

If you’re calling a mobile number, you don’t need an area code, as mobile numbers typically start with 1.

Step 4: Dial the local number.

• Landline numbers in China are usually 8 digits.
• Mobile numbers are 11 digits long.

Example:

1. Dial 00 (UK’s exit code).
2. Dial 86 (China’s country code).
3. Next, dial the area code (e.g., 10 for Beijing).
4. Finally, dial the local number (e.g., 1234 5678).

The complete sequence would be: 00 86 10 1234 5678.

List of Popular Area Codes In China

Here is the list of the most well-known cities in China, along with their area codes.

Keep in mind that China has a vast number of area codes due to its large size and numerous cities and regions.

Types of Phone Numbers in China

1. Landline Numbers

Landline numbers are in widespread use by businesses and households in urban and rural areas. These are region-specific and include the area code, identifying the city or province. Area codes are usually 2 to 3 digits, for instance, 10 for Beijing, 21 for Shanghai, and 20 for Guangzhou.

The local number is usually 8 digits in length and comes after the area code. For instance, a landline in Shanghai would be written as +86 21 12345678 when dialed internationally. Businesses in the UK and China often use international calling cards or advanced VoIP technology to make cheap calls to landlines. Including the area code is important when dialing from outside the region or internationally in order to accurately locate the code.

2. Mobile Phone Numbers

Mobile phone numbers are the most common type of phone number in China, showing the high penetration of mobile phones in the country. Unlike landlines, mobile numbers are not area-specific, so one can take these numbers with them whenever and wherever they move inside the country. The normal 11-digit format and usual prefixes of these phone numbers are 130–139, 150–159, 170–179, or 180–189.

For example, a mobile number might appear as +86 138 12345678 when dialed internationally. Mobile numbers are highly versatile, making them ideal for calls to China using services like virtual phone systems or country mobiles. Businesses and individuals often integrate mobile numbers with call-monitoring solutions to track communication performance and ensure reliability across regions.

3. Toll-free numbers

Toll-free numbers in China are commonly used by businesses to provide customer support or operate service hotlines. These numbers enable callers to reach companies without incurring charges when dialed domestically. Toll-free numbers typically begin with 800 or 400.

Numbers starting with 800 are entirely toll-free but can only be dialed from landlines within China, while 400 numbers share the call costs between the caller and the receiver and are accessible from both landlines and mobile phones.

For example, a toll-free number might appear as 800 123 4567 or 400 123 4567. Customer service departments widely utilize these numbers but are not accessible from outside China.

4. Emergency Numbers

China provides a range of short and easily remembered emergency numbers for various essential services, ensuring quick and reliable access during emergencies. These numbers are free of charge and accessible nationwide.

Common emergency numbers include 110 for police, 120 for ambulance services, 119 for fire services, and 122 for reporting traffic accidents. Designed for convenience, these numbers are short and simple to recall, and they can even be dialed without a SIM card in emergency situations, ensuring help is always available when needed.

5. Virtual Numbers

Virtual numbers are gaining popularity, especially among businesses and expatriates, because they enable users to keep a Chinese phone number without physically being in the country. These numbers are assigned by service providers and usually resemble standard mobile or landline numbers.

A key feature of virtual numbers is their ability to forward calls to international numbers or VoIP services, such as Dialaxy. This ensures seamless communication across borders. Virtual numbers are widely used for remote customer support, online registrations, and businesses operating on an international scale, providing flexibility and accessibility to users.

6. International Numbers

These numbers are used by international businesses and are formatted to include the +86 country code for inbound international calls.

They are commonly employed by multinational companies operating in China to facilitate seamless communication with clients and partners overseas. Such numbers are specifically designed for international communications and may offer toll-free options, depending on the service provider, to enhance accessibility and reduce costs for callers.

Common Challenges When Calling China

Time Zone Difference

China uses a single time zone, China Standard Time (CST), which is UTC+8. Despite its vast size and geographical diversity, the entire country follows the same official time, meaning there are no time differences within China itself.

Here’s a simple table showing the time difference between the UK and China

Why is Dialaxy the Best Choice for Calling China from the UK?

Dialaxy offers a seamless solution for connecting with your contacts in China, designed to enhance business productivity and communication efficiency. With an intuitive interface and a suite of advanced calling tools, Dialaxy ensures an exceptional user experience, leaving a lasting positive impression on your clients and partners.

Experience unmatched convenience and value when making international calls from the UK to China. With us, you can connect effortlessly, taking advantage of features like a free demo and virtual numbers to start making international calls immediately.

Conclusion

Calling China from the UK is a straightforward process when you understand the proper dialing format and options available. By following the steps outlined in this guide and leveraging cost-effective methods, you can stay connected with family, friends, or business associates in China without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re calling a bustling city like Beijing or a rural province, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring clear and affordable communication.

So, next time you need to call China, take a deep breath, follow the steps, and let the conversation flow. If you found this blog helpful, share it with friends or family who might need it, too. After all, staying connected is what truly matters. Check out our other blogs for more helpful tips.

FAQs

What is the country code for China?

The country code for China is +86. When calling China from the UK, this code must always be dialed at the beginning of the phone number.

How do I dial a landline in China from the UK?

To dial a landline in China from the UK, follow this format: +86 (area code) (local number). For example, to call a Beijing landline, dial +86 10 12345678.

Do I need to include the area code when calling a mobile number in China?

No, mobile phone numbers in China do not require an area code. Simply dial +86 followed by the 11-digit mobile number.

Are there different area codes for different regions in China?

Yes, China has different area codes depending on the region. For example, Beijing has the area code 10, while Shanghai has 21.

How much does it cost to call China from the UK?

Call rates from the UK to China generally range from £0.50 to £2.00 per minute, depending on your telecom provider and the calling service you use.

What is the best way to reduce calling costs to China?

To save on international calling fees, you can use VoIP services like Dialaxy, Rebtel, or WeChat or subscribe to international calling plans or specialized phone cards.

Can I call China using a mobile phone without incurring high charges?

Yes, you can use apps like Skype, WhatsApp, or WeChat to make free or low-cost internet calls. These are often cheaper than traditional mobile phone calls.