Imagine missing an important call, the kind that could change your day or bring fortune to your business, simply because you were nowhere near a phone. 

Whether you are going out, in a place with bad reception, or multitasking, a missed call is always frustrating and makes you feel disconnected and out of the loop. 

What if there was a way to forward calls without having the phone in your hand? This article explores the guide to stay in the loop and never miss another call, regardless of where you are. 

Say goodbye to missed connections and say hello to seamless communication!

🔑 Key Highlight
  • Call forwarding is a telecommunications service that allows a call made to a particular line to be transferred to another line. 
  • Carrier-based forwarding, VoIP services, and virtual phone numbers are some of the popular ways of call forwarding without a phone. 
  • Setting up call forwarding alone does not solve your problems, as there are some more nuances you need to follow before enhancing call forwarding efficiency. 
  • Service Providers like Google Voice, Dialaxy, and Grasshopper rank among the top when it comes to providing call-forwarding features. 

What is Call Forwarding?

What is Call Forwarding?

Call forwarding is a telecommunications service that allows a call made to a particular line to be transferred to another line. Thus, you do not lose important calls while you are away from your phone.

The process is quite complex and requires several things to be done in order to effect a setup, which can be done through mobile phones, fixed telephones, or VOIP cloud phone systems

To set up call forwarding, users usually go to phone configurations or use certain codes availed by the service provider. 

The given options can be divided into two types: unconditional call forwarding when all the IDs of the called number are transferred to another number, and conditional call forwarding, established only in case of certain conditions, such as, for example, when the called number is busy or unavailable.

After when a call is made to the initial number you assigned, the network diverts the call to the forwarding number. When forwarding a call, the number of the original caller shall be visible to the recipient and enable the right response. 

Another one of the call forwarding features is the ability to simultaneously ring a number of devices or attempt to dial a certain series of numbers. These conveniences make call forwarding a critical necessity or luxury in people’s individual and business interactions.

How to Forward Calls Without Having the Phone?

The modern world is fast-paced and demands that people almost always have access to their communication channels. People can’t afford to miss personal text messages or business texts. But carrying your phone everywhere is an inconvenience and not always possible. 

Call forwarding on iPhone and Android devices can save you a lot of missed messages as you can receive them at your convenience. 

There might be cases where you can’t access your phone network or you have lost your phone. To ensure that you receive phone calls in such instances, you need to learn the ways to forward calls without having the phone. 

Let’s learn some of the major ways to forward calls without having the phone: 

1. Carrier-Based Call Forwarding

You need to be ready to forward your calls. Almost all mobile phone carriers have built-in call forwarding features, which can redirect your incoming calls to a receivable destination. 

With carrier-based call forwarding, you can make sure that all of the calls you receive can be answered, whether or not you have your primary phone on you. 

You need to dial a code followed by your secondary number to set up call forwarding. That way, you can take your calls with the secondary number when you can’t access your primary number. 

These services also offer remote alteration of settings. You can remotely change your settings with an online account. 

Let’s look at some of the factors you need to consider before forwarding calls using a carrier service: 

  • Contact your carrier: You need to reach out to your mobile service provider to enable call forwarding. This contact also helps to establish if any additional charges may apply to forward calls. 
  • Dial Forwarding Codes: To enable call forwarding, there are carrier-specific dialing codes. For instance, a code like *72 followed by the destination number will set up your call forwarding. 
  • Deactivate Forwarding: When you no longer need call forwarding, you must deactivate it. To deactivate call forwarding, you can dial codes like *73. 

2. Virtual Phone Numbers

You can also set up call forwarding with virtual phone numbers. These numbers give you flexibility, allowing you to redirect incoming calls to a designated number automatically. 

Virtual phone numbers allow you to choose the designated number, so you can forward your calls accordingly to a number that you can access in that period. 

Since the numbers are not tied to a specific physical device, you get an alternative contact method. 

Call forwarding is not the only feature available when using virtual phone numbers. You can also access features like voicemail to email, automated attendants, and more. 

Mainly, businesses use virtual numbers to manage multiple lines and contact points without needing several devices. 

How to forward calls with virtual phone numbers:

  • Obtain a virtual number
  • Set up forwarding rules
  • Manage calls remotely

3. VoIP Services

Among the many features offered by VoIP services, one of the most celebrated is call forwarding. This allows you to route your calls without the need for a physical phone. 

VoIP uses the internet for the routing, so the process becomes easier and more manageable. 

Another feature available in a VoIP system is forwarding a call to multiple devices, including landlines, phones, and computers, making for an easy connection. 

VoIP call forwarding is more advanced, offering features like simultaneous ringing and automatic forwarding based on time zones. 

Steps to set up VoIP Call Forwarding: 

  • Sign up for a VoIP service
  • Configure call forwarding
  • Receive calls on any internet-enabled device 

4. Call Forwarding Apps

There are many mobile applications available that can forward calls when you don’t have control over the telephone you are using. 

These apps operate by connecting multiple devices to a single phone number, which means you can receive calls on a different device or even a computer. 

Other options for call management remotely are applications like Google Voice or Call Forwarding Pro. 

Some applications enable you to forward calls depending on certain conditions, such as forwarding at a specific time or forwarding only certain numbers.

These are convenient apps because you can change the forward calls right from the device or a Web interface. 

You can specify how your phone line redirects the call, listen to a voice mailbox, or even prevent any specific call number from ringing your phone. 

Also, some applications allow call forwarding only for a certain period, such as a week.

Some of the popular call-forwarding apps are: 

  • Google Voice
  • Call forwarding Pro
  • YouMail

So, next time you lose your Samsung Galaxy during your hike or your Google Pixel stops working, these apps have you covered. 

5. Using Remote Call Forwarding Services

For individuals in particular who prefer to handle phone calls remotely, there are actual services that are designed especially for call forwarding. 

These services should be used when the phone is not physically available—left at home, broken, or even stolen. Remote forwarding services may contain a website where the user can log in and specify how and where their calls will be connected. 

In some occurrences, remote call forwarding is one of the features offered within a business communication package. It is extremely useful for any professional who requires multiple lines or customer service lines.

Some of the key features offered by Remote Call Forwarding services are: 

  • Online Control Panels
  • Customizable call routing
  • Advanced Call Management

Tips to Enhance Call Forwarding Efficiency

Tips to Enhance Call Forwarding Efficiency

Call forwarding provides an efficient way to stay connected even when you don’t have your phone system. 

However, setting up call forwarding only doesn’t solve your problems as there are some more nuances you need to follow steps before enhancing call forwarding efficiency. Let’s look at some of them: 

1. Use Conditional Call Forwarding

Conditional call forwarding enables a user to forward calls under certain conditions, whether they are busy, have no network, or if the called number is unanswered. The user checks what is important and what is not, then decides whether to pick up the call or let it go to voice mail. 

This feature can be enabled on your phone or through your service provider’s settings. It assists in filtering out calls during business hours, ensuring that only important calls are routed.

2. Schedule Call Forwarding

Another good time to schedule and forward your calls is when your calendar is irregular during the week. For most call forwarding services, you get to choose at what particular time the calls will be forwarded. 

For example, during business hours, incoming calls can be automatically diverted to your work number, while you can divert them to your number during the evening and night. 

This allows you to set time limits on what you do and achieve throughout working hours and prevents engagements outside official working hours.

3. Use Multiple Forwarding Numbers

Adopting several forwarding numbers can immensely improve your call management. For instance, you will have a private number for your friends and family and a business number for your official calls. 

Most calling services, such as Google Voice or Dialaxy, allow you to use several numbers without any difficulties in call prioritization.

4. Integrate Call Forwarding With Voicemail Management

Call management, especially the types of voicemail, is very important in communication. Some phones are programmed to send messages informing users that there is a voicemail when they receive one. 

This allows you to be informed of missed calls so that you can return them. Some services also include voicemail-to-text conversion, which comes extremely handy in dictating which calls warrant a return call.

5. Use Simultaneous Ringing

Conferencing comes in handy and enables one to answer calls on two or more devices in case the other device is not within sight. 

For instance, with the service, one can ring through to a home phone line, the office phone, and a mobile device at once. This feature comes in handy, especially for workers who move from one office to another within the day. 

As long as your call forwarding service offers this feature, you should also seek its assistance.

6. Test and Update Your Call Forwarding Settings

It is essential to review your call forwarding settings and change them frequently for efficiency. 

Remember always to check your forwarding settings. This is especially essential if you switch to another phone or provider. 

Make sure your forwarding numbers are correct and that you are actively testing calls to ensure that the whole system is running correctly. Updates are important because, occasionally, the time set may expire, which can lead to missing calls.

7. Selecting a Good Call Forwarding Company

When it comes to choosing the right call forwarding service, there are no two things more basic than these. 

Seek organizations that provide services such as prospects of call analytics, call recording, and easy-to-use interface, among others. 

It is always best to check the reviews online and try to note down things like the quality of the call, their customer support and pricing plan.

🍞You may also like: How do I turn off Call Forwarding on any device?

3 Best Call Forwarding Apps

Picking the best call-forwarding apps will make it easier for you to set up and ensure that you never miss an important text. Let’s look at some apps that offer call-forwarding services: 

I. Google Voice

Features: Google Voice features include communication management and selection possibilities. It lets users forward calls to other devices/numbers and also comes with voicemail transcription, where voicemails are automatically transcribed for reading. 

Users can also send and receive SMS from their Google Voice number and customize voicemail for any contact. Furthermore, it allows other applications like Google Calendar and Gmail to be integrated with it, making work more efficient.

Pros: 

  1. It offers a lot of free options for call forwarding, voicemail, and texting features.
  2. It provides an easy-to-use user interface that is accessible to users. 
  3. They provide automatic transcription helping to prioritize callbacks.

Cons:

  1. Google Voice lacks robust customer support options. 
  2. It is not available globally, making its accessibility limited. 
  3. There are a lot of call quality issues during peak times. 

II. Dialaxy

Features: Dialaxy provides an extensive feature set for communication tools used by individuals and organizations. It can forward calls to any other number or gadget and includes virtual phone numbers for creating a professional presence. 

Dialaxy also has tools for controlling and receiving voicemail messages, such as voicemail to email and transcription. 

Pros:

  1. Dialaxy offers other features like virtual phone numbers and an online presence management system. 
  2. Competitive pricing catering to individuals and businesses. 
  3. Dialaxy is known for responsive customer support providing help whenever users need it. 

Cons:

  1. Some advanced features may cost you additional fees. 
  2. The extensive features might be overwhelming for new users. 

III. Grasshopper

Features: Grasshopper is intended mainly for those using the telephone line for business purposes and is designed for entrepreneurs and small businesses, containing a set of numeric business features.

Local & toll-free virtual phone numbers are available to users who can forward calls to mobile or home phones. 

Also, in Grasshopper, extensions can be set for various departments or team members to organize the flow of information.

Pros:

  1. They offer business-oriented features designed for entrepreneurs and small businesses. 
  2. Grasshopper offers 24/7 reliable customer service available around the clock. 
  3. The setup process is quick and easy, which allows businesses to get started without technical difficulties. 

Cons:

  1. Grasshopper is generally more expensive than its competitors. 
  2. Some users find less flexibility compared to others. 
  3. The international call forwarding options are not as robust.

Conclusion

With an effective knowledge of call forwarding options, you can improve your communication efficiency and flexibility. This tool offers a powerful solution for individuals to retain privacy and manage costs. 

Missing a call is always a hassle and since you can’t always guarantee to have your primary phone on you, with call forwarding set up, you can effectively manage call routing to match your convenience. 

Embrace these solutions to streamline your call management and enhance your overall connectivity.

FAQs

Can I forward calls if my phone is lost or damaged?

Yes, if you are properly prepared for any damages beforehand, you can still forward calls with a lost or damaged phone. You need to have call forwarding set up or have access to another device or service that allows you to manage your phone settings. 

Some options that allow you to forward calls might be” 

  • Carrier’s call forwarding services
  • Virtual phone services
  • SIM card swap

What is the best free call forwarding service?

There are plenty of call-forwarding solutions available, and the best one might vary according to your needs and demands. Let’s look at some of the best providers out there that might help you in your endeavors:

  • Google Voice
  • Dialaxy
  • Call Centric
  • TextNow

How do I forward calls to multiple devices at once?

To forward calls to multiple devices at once, there are a lot of services that support simultaneous call forwarding. You can log into the service’s settings and add multiple phone numbers or devices. After entering the number of devices you want to ring, the incoming calls are forwarded to all devices simultaneously.

Can I forward international calls to a local number?

Yes, it is possible to forward international calls to a local number. Many call-forwarding services and virtual phone numbers allow you to set up international call forwarding.

What happens to calls when I don’t have a phone and call forwarding isn’t set up?

When you don’t have a phone and you have not set up call forwarding, all the incoming calls generally go to voicemail. But you have to have voicemail enabled for that to happen. In cases when you have not enabled voicemail settings, the phone will ring and go simply unanswered.

Prasanta Raut

Prasanta, founder and CEO of Dialaxy, is redefining SaaS with creativity and dedication. Focused on simplifying sales and support, he drives innovation to deliver exceptional value and shape a new era of business excellence.

Prasanta, founder and CEO of Dialaxy, is redefining SaaS with creativity and dedication. Focused on simplifying sales and support, he drives innovation to deliver exceptional value and shape a new era of business excellence.