Non-Geographic

What are non-geographic numbers?

A non-geographic number is a number that is not tied to a specific geographic region of the UK. For example an 01903 number is intrinsically linked to Worthing in West Sussex and it surrounding areas.

0207 is the code for Greater London and a business in Southampton for instance would not be assigned an 0207 number on the public telephone network. (This can be achieved using SIP, see more details about SIP services.)

Non-geographic numbers such as 0845 numbers are not linked to any area and can be attached to any geographic or mobile number in the UK. Non-geographic numbers metaphorically sit on top of fixed line and mobile numbers and can be easily moved to another location in the UK with relatively short notice, (normally same day).

Ofcom (the telecoms regulatory body), has been trying to standardise non-geographic numbering in the UK for the past few years. The new 03 number range is now available and 0870 numbers will no longer be able to provide a kick-back to the owner of the number.

We offer our customers a wide range of non geographic numbers, suitable for a variety of business purposes. We want to ensure that you have all the information you need to decide which numbers are right for your business.

The list below explains the advantages of each number to help you decide which numbers to choose.

0800 and 0808 - These are free for your customers to call, removing the cost barrier and giving you the edge over your competitors. You pay for each call you receive on a pence per minute (ppm) basis.

03 - This is a new number range. 03 numbers cost the same to your customers as national rate calls to geographic numbers (starting 01 or 02). They offer the same functionality as a geographic number but without a geographic tie.

There is a small pence per minute charge to you for each call you receive.

0844 and 0845 - These numbers are charged to your customers at up to 5ppm providing a low cost call option. You can, on certain numbers, receive a revenue share on a pence per minute basis of the incoming calls but the rate will depend on the type of number you choose.

0870 - These are currently charged at up to 10ppm but will be charged to your customers as national rate calls to geographic numbers from Spring 2008. These numbers will then no longer offer revenue share and owners will be charged on a pence per minute basis for calls received. The precise switch over date is dependent upon ratification from Ofcom.

0871 - This is an alternative number range charged at up to 10ppm. You can earn revenue from every call made to these numbers. Owners are required to register company details with PayPhonePlus, formerly ICSTIS. Visit ww.payphoneplus.org.uk for further details on how to register.

090 - This is a premium rate range for use other than adult material. Owners receive revenue from every call but there are strict rules about the type of services that can use them.

098 - From next year, numbers starting 098 will be reserved for premium rate adult material.

For more information about non geographic numbers, call customer services.