How to Call the USA from Canada? A Comprehensive Guide

Reaching out to the USA from Canada is straightforward once you understand the steps. Whether you’re connecting with family or friends or conducting business, knowing the right way to dial can make the process smooth and stress-free.

With this comprehensive guide, you will know how to call the USA from Canada and how to figure out the time difference before you make the call. We’ll also talk about how much it usually costs to make a long-distance call and how you can call someone in the US for free.

Let’s get started!!!

Understand the USA Phone Number Format

Understanding the USA phone number format is crucial. With 50 states, each with its own cultural and territorial differences and area codes, it’s important to grasp the format. This knowledge will ensure that your prospects and personal relationships are only a phone call away, without any international calling rule hiccups.

The US phone number format is not as complex as it may seem. It’s similar to other phone number formats, containing basic components such as country code, area code, and subscriber number.

Country Code: What is the country code for the USA? Well, the USA country code is +1. When dialing a US number from abroad, you must start with your country’s international dialing prefix (often represented as 00), followed by 1, the area code, and then the local number.

The area code, a three-digit number, plays a crucial role in the calling process. It identifies a specific geographic region within the United States, helping to route calls to the correct location. 

Subscriber Number: The US subscriber number is seven digits divided into two parts: the exchange code (or central office code) and the line number. The exchange code is a three-digit number that further narrows down the location within the area defined by the area code. 

Note: Some states or cities have multiple area codes due to population growth and increased demand for phone numbers. 

For example, Consider the phone number: (415) 555-1234

Area Code: 415  (San Francisco, California.)

Exchange Code: 555 (This code further narrows down the location within the 415 area code. The exchange code identifies a specific central office that serves a group of phone numbers.)

Subscriber Code: 1234 (Unique identifier for an individual line)

List of Major USA Area Code

How to Call the USA from Canada?

Calling us from Canada is as easy as 1-2-3—literally! To reach anyone in the United States from a Canadian phone, you need to know the USA dialing code from Canada that is made up of four of the following numbers:

• Exit Code

The exit code 011 is the designated dialing code that enables individuals in Canada to place international calls. When you wish to connect with someone located outside of Canada, you must first dial 011, which serves as a signal to your phone system that the next numbers will be part of an international call. After dialing this code, you’ll then enter the country code for the destination you’re calling, followed by the local phone number. This procedure ensures that your call is properly routed to the intended international location.

• Country Code

The United States and Canada share the same country code: 1. When making an international call from the US or any other country to the other, you must still dial 1 before entering the area code and the local phone number. This is an important step to remember to avoid any call connectivity issues.

• Area Code

A valid three-digit area code (for instance, 503 for Portland, Oregon) directs your phone call to a more specific region. The area codes for some of the largest cities in the United States can be found in the table above.

• Local Number

Finally, punch in the seven-digit local phone number. Easy peasy!

So, to call someone in Chicago with the area code 312, you’d dial:

1-312-555-6789

Steps to Follow

To call the USA from Canada, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Dial the USA’s country code: 1

Step 2: Dial the area code: USA area codes are three digits long. For example, New York City’s area code is 212.

Step 3: Dial the local phone number. This will be seven digits long. 

Example: If you want to call a Los Angeles number like 213-456-7890, you would dial 1-213-456-7890.

Tips for Making Cost-Effective Call to the USA

Use of International Calling Plans: 

Adding an international calling plan to your mobile service

It can significantly reduce the cost of calling the USA. These plans often include unlimited calls or discounted rates, saving money compared to standard per-minute charges.

VoIP Services: 

Affordable or free internet-based options like Dialaxy, Skype, WhatsApp, Zoom, or FaceTime are excellent for cost-effective communication. These platforms require a stable internet connection but can offer free voice or video calls to the USA.

International Calling Cards: 

Calling cards provide pre-paid credit for international calls at reduced rates. They are especially useful for those without a dedicated phone plan for calling the USA, offering flexibility and affordability.

Mobile Apps and Services: 

Apps like Google Voice offer cheap international rates or even free calling to the USA, depending on the plan. These apps are user-friendly and ideal for both personal and business communication.

Time Zone Considerations: 

The United States and Australia both have several time zones. If you’re calling a US location, you’ll need to know both the Australian and the US time zones. The USA spans six time zones, with a time difference of 1-4 hours behind most Canadian time zones.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Calling the USA

Incorrect Dialing Codes: 

Using the wrong area code can lead to failed calls or incorrect recipients. Always verify the U.S. area code, as they vary widely by state and region (e.g., 212 for New York City and 310 for Los Angeles).

Confusing International Access Codes:

Canada and the USA share the same country code (+1), so no additional international access code is required. Confusion may arise with codes like the UK’s +44—double-check before dialing!

Time Zone Issues: 

For seamless communication, always confirm the time difference. For example, if it’s 3 PM in Toronto, it’s only noon in Los Angeles (Pacific Time). Adjust your call timing accordingly.

How can you call the US from Canada for free?

If you want to avoid the headache of high international rates and confusing phone plans, a VoIP phone service that offers free calls to the US can be the best solution.

The best part is that since VoIP systems use the Internet to connect you to callers around the world, you can use your number with any compatible device from anywhere with an Internet connection, even when you’re no longer in Canada. Dialaxy offers mobile (Android and iOS), desktop, and web apps for greater flexibility.

VoIP Services with Free Calling

Some apps and services offer free calls to US numbers:

TextNow: Provides a free US or Canadian phone number for calling.

FreedomPop: Free VoIP-based calls to US and Canadian numbers with limited monthly minutes.

MagicJack: Offers free app-to-app calls and affordable US/Canada calling plans.

Why Dialaxy is the Best Option for Calling the USA?

Dialaxy provides an easy-to-use interface, helpful call management tools, and contact center features. Our user-friendly interface can simplify business communication and enhance user experience, which can increase business productivity and efficiency.

Experience our convenience and value by connecting with your US contacts effortlessly.  When making international calls from Canada to the US, We might be your best option. You also can take advantage of our free demo and get a virtual number to start making international calls right away without any commitment.

Conclusion

Calling the USA from Canada has never been easier, thanks to the variety of methods available today. Whether you prefer traditional landlines, mobile plans with international add-ons, cost-effective VoIP services, or convenient apps, there’s a solution to fit every need and budget. Several VoIP services like Dialaxy, Skype, and other communication apps offer lower rates and additional features, making them attractive alternatives to traditional phone calls.

If you know the dialing codes, time zones, and ways to save money, it’s easy to call across borders. This guide showed you how to call the USA from Canada and fix problems if they come up. Now, pick the best way for you to make a call. Stay connected easily, and check out our other blogs for more helpful tips. We offer reliable and affordable international calling plans that provide crystal-clear connections.

FAQs

Is the +1 the US or Canada code?

The country code +1 is shared by both the United States and Canada. When dialing a number in either the U.S. or Canada from abroad, you would start with +1, followed by the area code and the local number.

For example, to call a USA number from outside Canada, you would dial:

+1 (Area Code) (Local Number)

Does +1 include Canada?

Yes! +1 is used as a country code by both Canada and USA. This code is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), which includes several countries and territories in North America.

How to dial a number from Canada?

To dial a number from Canada, use the 7-digit number for local calls or add “1,” followed by the area code for long-distance calls.

How can I call to USA?

To call the USA, dial your country’s exit code + 1 (USA code) + area code + phone number (e.g., 011-1-555-123-4567).

How can I call from Canada to the USA?

To call from Canada to the USA, dial 1 (US country code) + the area code + the phone number (e.g., 1-555-123-4567).

Is the US country code 001 or 1?

The US country code is 1. In some countries, the prefix 001 is used as an exit code before dialing international numbers.

How to call an American number?

Calls to the US from Canada are considered domestic long-distance calls, and depending on your phone plan, they may be subject to long-distance charges.

Is Canada country code 001 or 011?

If you’re calling Canada from outside North America, the exit code depends on your country (e.g., 00 for the UK, 011 for the US), followed by 1 (the country code for Canada).

What code is +1 in the world?

Code +1 is used for the entire North American continent, which includes several countries, including the USA and Canada.