If you’re looking to attract more leads or establish a more professional image for your business, consider getting an 800 number.
Email, online forms, online chat, and social media have become the most common points of contact between businesses and customers. However, plenty of business communications still rely heavily on phone calls.
Using 800 numbers gives your business a way to stay connected with customers, no matter what occurs in the future of your business. If you move to a new location or expand your operations, you can continue using the same number.
Note: In Canada and the United States, 800 and 1-800 numbers are the same thing, with “1” simply representing the country code when dialing.
How Do 1-800 Numbers Work?
When a customer calls a 1-800 number, the call is routed through a cloud telephone provider & redirected to the phone number of your choice. For example, you can route calls from the toll-free number to the landline at your business, your mobile phone, or a virtual phone number.
A 1-800 number is a toll-free number, which means the business pays for incoming calls instead of the caller. This lets customers call from anywhere in the country without being charged.
While saving callers money isn’t as big of a deal now—thanks to internet-based services and cheaper long-distance rates—toll-free numbers are still a valuable business tool for many reasons.
How to Set Up Your New Toll-Free Number for Your Business
Setting up a toll-free number for your business is easy, but to get the most out of it, you’ll want to focus on a few key steps, such as:
1. Choose a Memorable Number
Pick a number that’s easy to remember. A vanity number is the best way to go if you want something that sticks in people’s minds. These numbers spell out a word or phrase that’s related to your business, like 1-800-PLUMBER or 1-800-FLOWERS.
If a vanity number isn’t available, aim for a number with a simple, repetitive pattern like 1-800-222-2020. Avoid complicated combinations that are hard to recall. The easier it is to remember, the more likely customers will call you.
2. Connect It to the Right Departments
A toll-free number is more than just a single phone line. Use extensions to direct calls to specific departments or team members. For example:
- Press 1 for customer service
- Press 2 for sales
- Press 3 for billing
This helps customers reach the right person faster and makes your business feel more organized and professional.
3. Add Your Number to All Marketing Materials
To get the most out of your toll-free number, make it highly visible. Add it everywhere—your website, email signature, social media profiles, print ads, business cards, and even company vehicles. The more places customers see it, the more likely they are to remember it.
If you have a catchy vanity number, use it as a centerpiece in your ads. People will remember the number long after they’ve seen your ad.
4. Set Up a Professional Voicemail and Call Routing System
First impressions matter. If a customer calls after hours, your voicemail should sound professional and informative. Let them know when they can expect a callback and offer helpful information in the message.
Consider an auto-attendant to greet callers and guide them through options. A polished system makes your business look more established and keeps callers engaged.
5. Track and Analyze Your Calls
Most toll-free number providers offer call tracking and analytics. Use these tools to track how many calls you receive, where they come from, and how long they last.
This information can help you improve customer service, measure the success of marketing campaigns, and identify peak call times. You can also record calls for training purposes or to maintain quality control.
Why You Should Get an 800 Number
Let’s look at how an 800 number can help your business stand out and stay ahead of the competition.
1-800 Numbers Boost Your Credibility
A 1-800 number makes your business look more professional. People naturally associate toll-free numbers with well-established companies, which builds trust.
It also makes your business feel more reliable and accessible. Potential customers feel reassured knowing they can easily contact you when they need help. This simple addition can make a big difference in how people perceive your business.
They Are Easier to Remember
Toll-free numbers are not just professional—they can also be memorable, especially if you go with a vanity number. A vanity number is a set of phone number digits that spell out a word related to your business.
The word is typically easier to remember compared to a set of digits. For example, “COMPUTE” is easier to remember than “266-7883.”
It’s much easier to remember words than random numbers. If a potential customer remembers your number but forgets your competitor’s, you’re more likely to get the call.
If a potential customer remembers your business number but forgets your competition’s number, you’re more likely to gain a new customer.
Use 800 Numbers to Increase Customer Service
A number that’s easy to remember makes it easier for customers to reach you. Frustration builds quickly when people can’t find a business’s contact info. An 800 number solves that problem.
You can even forward your toll-free calls to other phones—your mobile phone, another department, or specific team members. This keeps you available no matter where you are, improving the customer experience.
800 Numbers May Increase Brand Recognition
A recognizable phone number can become part of your brand identity. Just like your business name or logo, a memorable 800 number helps customers associate the number with your company.
If you choose a vanity number, like 1-800-FLOWERS or 1-800-LAWYERS, it’s even easier for people to remember who you are and what you offer.
Think about it—when customers see your toll-free number repeatedly in ads, on your website, or in social media posts, it starts to stick in their minds. Over time, they won’t just remember your number—they’ll connect it to your brand.
If your business has multiple locations or departments, using the same 800 number with different extensions keeps things consistent and unifies your brand. Customers can reach the right person without memorizing multiple numbers, which makes their experience smoother and reinforces your brand’s professional image.
Expand Your Business With Toll-Free Numbers
Unlike local numbers that tie you to a specific area, 800 numbers give your business a national presence. If you’re thinking about growing your business, a toll-free number can help you reach more customers without complications.
A toll-free number is especially valuable if you want to attract customers from regions where you don’t have a physical presence yet. Potential customers in new areas may feel more confident calling an 800 number than a local number they don’t recognize. This can help you connect with a broader audience, build trust, and increase your reach.
Another great advantage is flexibility. You don’t need a separate phone number for every new location or department. With a toll-free number, you can simply add extensions.
For example, your main office could use extension 1, your customer support team could be extension 2, and your new sales office could be extension 3—all under the same toll-free number. This makes your business appear more organized and cohesive.
You can also market to different regions more easily. Let’s say you start advertising in a new city or even another country.
You don’t need to create a new ad campaign with a different number—you can use your existing toll-free number and route calls to the right department or office. This simplifies your marketing strategy and saves time and money.
Your Toll-Free Number Provides Consistency
Sometimes, when you move to a new place or change telephone providers, you might have to get a new phone number. Not all providers let you keep your current number (but Talkroute does!)
Toll-free numbers are a smart solution because you can keep the same number no matter what. If you change offices or phone services, you can easily redirect your 800 number to any other phone. This saves you the hassle of updating clients, websites, and marketing materials with a new number.
A toll-free number also works well with a virtual phone system. Most 800 number providers can route calls to virtual numbers, giving you access to helpful features like call screening and group call forwarding when paired with a cloud phone solution.
800 Numbers Are More Affordable Than You Think
Many small business owners assume toll-free numbers are expensive, but that’s not true anymore. With modern virtual phone systems, 800 numbers are more budget-friendly than ever.
You’ll find monthly plans and flexible subscription options that fit different budgets. Whether you’re a local shop or a larger business, an 800 number is a smart investment.
In the end, an 800 number is an easy and affordable way to grow your business and stay connected with your customers. Whether you run a small shop or a big company, it brings many benefits. It builds trust, makes your business look more professional, and keeps your customers happy—all while helping you stand out.
Recommended Reading:
Get a Toll Free Number for Business with Talkroute: A Quick Guide
5 Reasons Why You Should Get Rid of Your Business Landline
Boost Your Business With a 1-800 Toll-Free Number From Talkroute
If you’re searching for an 800 toll-free number for your business, Talkroute makes it simple and powerful. It’s designed for businesses of all sizes—whether you’re running a small startup or managing a growing company. Here’s how Talkroute helps you stand out:
Professional Toll-Free Numbers for Any Business
A toll-free number makes your business look more credible and reliable. It allows customers to call your business without being charged for the call. Talkroute gives you access to toll-free numbers that are easy to remember, helping your business stand out and making it easier for customers to reach you.
Flexibility to Answer Calls Anywhere
With Talkroute, you can answer business calls from your mobile phone, office phone, or even your computer. You’ll never miss an important call because you can route calls to any device, no matter where you are. This flexibility keeps you connected, whether you’re working from home or traveling.
No Expensive Equipment Required
Talkroute is 100% virtual, which means you don’t need to buy or maintain any special equipment. Just use the Talkroute app on your desktop, smartphone, or tablet. The setup is quick and easy, so you can start taking calls right away.
Call Forwarding and Advanced Routing
Talkroute’s advanced call routing options let you customize how and where your calls are directed. Forward calls to multiple devices, set schedules for when your phones ring, and create different routing paths for departments or team members.
Text Messaging and Voicemail
With Talkroute, your toll-free number isn’t limited to calls. You can also send and receive text messages, giving your customers another convenient way to reach you. Voicemail transcription makes managing messages easy, sending them directly to your email so you can respond faster.
Easy-To-Use Platform
Talkroute’s platform is user-friendly and designed for businesses of all sizes. You can manage everything from your online dashboard—adjust call settings, customize greetings, set up business hours, and more—all in one place.
It’s easy to get started with Talkroute. Choose a new toll-free number or transfer your existing one. Sign up now and start using your Talkroute toll-free number today!
FAQs About How to Get a 1800 Number for My Business
How do I get a 1800 number for my business?
Getting a 1-800 number for your business is easy. Start by choosing a toll-free number service that offers business phone numbers. These services typically allow you to pick from available 1-800 numbers, including vanity toll-free numbers if you want something memorable. Once you’ve selected your number, you can set it up to receive calls on your cell phone or desk phone. Many services offer a free mobile app that helps manage inbound calls, business voicemail, and even outbound calls.
How much does it cost to get a 1-800 number?
The cost of a 1-800 number varies depending on the toll-free service provider. Some services charge a monthly fee, while others charge based on the number of minutes used for toll-free calls. Basic plans can start as low as $10 a month, but prices can increase if you want features like call recording, business voicemail, or advanced call routing. Vanity toll-free numbers may also come with an extra fee.
Is a 1-800 number free?
A 1-800 number isn’t free for businesses, but it is free for customers to call. Businesses pay for the minutes used on inbound calls, so customers can contact them without worrying about charges. Many toll-free services offer affordable pricing plans, which can include features like call forwarding and a free mobile app for managing calls on the go.
Is a 1-800 number better for business?
A 1-800 number can be a smart choice for businesses. It makes your business look more professional and gives you a national presence. 1-800 and other toll-free prefixes also make it easier for customers to contact you without incurring charges, which can improve customer satisfaction. Vanity toll-free numbers are even better for branding, as they help customers remember your business. If you receive calls from customers nationwide, having a toll-free number is a great way to boost your business image and handle both inbound and outbound calls efficiently.
Stephanie
Stephanie is the Marketing Director at Talkroute and has been featured in Forbes, Inc, and Entrepreneur as a leading authority on business and telecommunications.
Stephanie is also the chief editor and contributing author for the Talkroute blog helping more than 200k entrepreneurs to start, run, and grow their businesses.
