If you’ve ever dialed a customer service line or contacted a business in the UK, there’s a good chance you’ve encountered a 0345 number. But are 0345 numbers free to call? The short answer is: not always. While these numbers aren’t premium-rate, they’re charged at standard local rates, which means the cost depends on your phone plan and provider.
Understanding how 0345 numbers work can help you avoid unexpected charges and make informed decisions about which businesses to contact. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about calling 0345 numbers, from costs and comparisons with other UK numbers to their benefits for businesses and tips for calling from abroad.
Are 0345 Numbers Free?
While 0345 numbers aren’t technically free, they’re designed to be affordable and accessible. These numbers fall under Ofcom’s non-geographic number range and are charged at the same rate as calls to standard UK landlines (01 and 02 numbers).
Here’s what that means in practice:
- If you have inclusive minutes: Calls to 0345 numbers are usually included in your bundled minutes at no extra cost, whether you’re calling from a landline or mobile.
- If you don’t have inclusive minutes: You’ll pay the standard landline rate, which is typically a per-minute charge plus an access fee set by your provider.
- From payphones: Calls may incur a minimum charge, similar to other non-geographic numbers.
So while 0345 numbers aren’t freephone numbers like 0800 or 0808, they offer a cost-effective way to reach businesses without paying premium rates.
Cost of Calling 0345 Numbers
The exact cost of calling a 0345 number varies depending on your phone provider and the type of device you’re using. Here’s a breakdown:
From a Landline
Most UK landline providers charge 0345 calls at the same rate as standard geographic numbers. If you have a call package that includes unlimited landline calls, your 0345 calls will typically be free. Without a package, you’ll pay a per-minute rate (usually between 10p and 15p) plus a connection fee.
From a Mobile
Mobile providers also treat 0345 numbers as standard calls. If your mobile plan includes bundled minutes (which most do), calls to 0345 numbers will count toward your allowance at no additional charge. Pay-as-you-go users will pay their provider’s standard per-minute rate.
From Different Networks
- BT: Includes 0345 calls in landline packages; mobile rates apply standard charges.
- Virgin Media: Treats 0345 calls like standard landline calls.
- EE, O2, Vodafone, Three: All major mobile networks include 0345 calls in bundled minutes or charge standard rates.
Always check with your provider if you’re unsure about specific charges.
0345 Numbers vs. Other UK Numbers
Understanding the difference between 0345 numbers and other UK number types can help you anticipate costs and choose the best way to get in touch with a business.
0800/0808 Numbers (Freephone)
These are completely free to call from both landlines and mobiles. Businesses often use them for customer service to remove any barriers to contact.
0845 Numbers
Once popular, 0845 numbers are more expensive than 0345 numbers and are no longer included in most call packages. They can cost significantly more per minute, especially from mobiles.
Geographic Numbers (01/02)
These are standard UK landline numbers tied to specific regions. Like 0345 numbers, they’re usually included in bundled minutes and charged at local rates.
03 Numbers (0300, 0330, 0333, etc.)
All 03 numbers, including 0345, are charged at the same rate as geographic numbers and are commonly used by public services, charities, and businesses that want to offer affordable contact options.
The key takeaway? If a business offers both a 0345 number and an 0845 number, always choose the 0345 option to save money.
Benefits of Using 0345 Numbers for Businesses
From a business perspective, 0345 numbers offer several advantages that make them an attractive alternative to geographic or premium-rate numbers.
Nationwide Presence
Unlike geographic numbers that tie a business to a specific location, 0345 numbers give companies a professional, nationwide image. This is particularly valuable for businesses that serve customers across the UK.
Cost-Effective for Customers
Because 0345 numbers are charged at standard rates and included in most call packages, they lower the barrier to contact. Customers are more likely to call when they know they won’t face high charges.
Flexibility and Portability
Businesses can route 0345 numbers to any location, making them easy to redirect as the company grows or relocates. This flexibility ensures continuity for customers.
Compliance with Regulations
Since 2015, Ofcom regulations have prohibited businesses from using expensive numbers for customer service. Switching to 0345 numbers helps businesses stay compliant while maintaining accessibility.
How to Call 0345 Numbers from Abroad
Calling a 0345 number from outside the UK requires a slightly different approach, and costs can vary significantly.
Dialing Format
To call a 0345 number from abroad, you’ll need to:
- Dial your country’s international access code (e.g., 011 from the US, 00 from most European countries).
- Dial the UK country code: +44.
- Drop the leading 0 from the 0345 number and dial the remaining digits.
For example, to call 0345 123 4567 from the US, you’d dial: 011 44 345 123 4567.
International Charges
Calling a 0345 number from abroad is treated as an international call, not a standard UK call. This means you’ll pay your provider’s international rates, which can be expensive. Check with your phone company for specific charges, or consider using internet-based calling services like Skype or WhatsApp to save money.
Alternatives to 0345 Numbers
While 0345 numbers are cost-effective, there are other options worth considering depending on your needs.
Freephone Numbers (0800/0808)
If removing all cost barriers is a priority, freephone numbers are the best choice. They’re completely free for callers, making them ideal for customer support lines or helplines.
Geographic Numbers (01/02)
If you want to maintain a local presence, geographic numbers are a solid option. They’re charged at the same rate as 0345 numbers but can help build trust with customers in specific regions.
Virtual Phone Systems
Modern virtual phone systems allow businesses to use multiple number types (including 0345, 0800, and geographic numbers) and route calls flexibly. This gives you the best of all worlds.
VoIP Solutions
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services offer low-cost calling options for both businesses and individuals. These are particularly useful for international calls or remote teams.
Making Sense of 0345 Numbers
So, are 0345 numbers free? Not quite—but they’re the next best thing. Charged at standard local rates and typically included in bundled minutes, 0345 numbers offer an affordable way to contact businesses without the sting of premium charges.
For businesses, 0345 numbers strike a balance between accessibility and professionalism, providing a nationwide presence without alienating cost-conscious customers. For callers, they represent a fair deal, especially compared to older, more expensive alternatives like 0845 numbers.
Before placing a call, double-check your phone plan to understand whether your minutes cover 0345 numbers. And if you’re calling from abroad, explore internet-based alternatives to avoid hefty international fees. With this knowledge in hand, you’ll never be caught off guard by an unexpected phone bill again.
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