[asterisk-biz] [UK] 03333 numbers et al

[Steve Kennedy]

On Thu, Apr 14, 2011 at 10:06:03AM +0100, Chris Bagnall wrote:

> > Getting really confused over what numbers are best for both a business and
> > a client ?!?!? 0845/0800 numbers used to be the ones; though with 0845 the
> > providers got a kick back as-well. If you are a new UK business, and with 
> > to
> > be national, is the best approach an 03* type number. Any links to an
> > definitive(ish) list of inbound pricing for a client ?
> It may be worth having a look at the telecoms section on the Ofcom website 
> (www.ofcom.org.uk). I do believe (but am open to correction :) ) that 03xx 
> non-geographic numbers cannot be charged at a higher rate than geographic 
> (01/02) numbers and *must* be included in any bundles that apply to 
> geographic numbers. So, in terms of a consistent cost for callers, there's 
> nothing wrong with using 03xx numbers if you don't want to indicate a 
> specific geographic presence.

03 numbers were originally designed for large organisations to replace
084/7 numbers which incurred costs to end-users and can be confusing. A
lot of providers (including MNOs) did not allow them in inclusive
minutes etc.

Now with 03 numbers they MUST be included in any bundles and are
considered local rate (even from mobiles), also there should never be
any payout to the terminating organisation.

> Having said that, I'm inclined to agree with Andy's response - nothing beats 
> a good ol' geographic number for clarity and avoidance of caller confusion.

Except that some areas are running out and Ofcom are planning to
introduce (or consulting and would like to introduce) charges for number
blocks.

> It's also worth mentioning that I don't know how well adopted the 03xx 
> numbers are for international dialling. I recall a test I did on this list a 
> couple of years ago in which I asked people in various countries to try 
> dialling an 020 3 number I'd set up for testing. It would seem that many 
> international telcos had 020 7/8 in their numbering plans, and hadn't 
> "adjusted" to 020 3 also being used for London numbers - despite it having 
> been in use for some years when the test was run.

A lot of international traffic goes through BT and they should know
about them ;)

Steve

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