0860 numbers are national business numbers that companies can use to create a nationwide presence. However, the cost of an 0860 number works differently from an 0861 number.
The caller pays the local call cost. The business then pays the difference between the local call rate and the national call rate.
0860 Numbers for Business
An 0860 number can give a business a national presence. Customers can call one number from different parts of South Africa.
However, the business carries part of the call cost. This can make 0860 numbers expensive when a company receives a high number of calls.
The final cost also depends on how the phone system handles incoming calls.
How 0860 Numbers Work
When a customer calls an 0860 number, the caller pays the local call charge.
The business then pays the remaining cost of the call. As a result, companies with many incoming calls can face higher telephone bills.
This differs from an 0861 number. With an 0861 number, the caller pays the national call rate. The business does not pay an additional incoming call charge under the standard arrangement.
0860 Numbers vs 0861 Numbers
The main difference comes down to who pays for the call.
With an 0860 number, the caller pays the local rate and the business covers the balance.
With an 0861 number, the caller pays the national rate. This can make an 0861 number easier for a business to budget for.
Calls to mobile phones can also have different rates. The actual charge depends on the number and the service used.
Why Businesses Use 0861 Numbers
Many small businesses now choose 0861 numbers instead of 0860 numbers.
An 0861 number gives the business a national number without adding the same incoming call cost to the business.
It can also help a company present one professional number to customers across South Africa.
Are 0860 Numbers Still Available?
Virtual Number currently focuses on 0861 numbers and 087 numbers rather than 0860 numbers.
The demand for 0860 numbers has declined in recent years. Therefore, we now focus on services that better suit current business needs.
You can still use a national business number without taking on the same cost structure as an 0860 service.
0861 Numbers for Your Business
Virtual Number offers 0861 numbers for businesses that need a national presence.
You can use an 0861 number with a business phone system and connect it to your team. Multi-user options also include switchboard features.
The service can help your business manage incoming calls without relying on a traditional landline.
087 Numbers for Business
Virtual Number also offers 087 numbers from R60 per month.
An 087 number can provide a professional business number for companies that do not need an 0861 number.
You can connect the number to your existing phone system or VoIP service.
National Numbers for International Businesses
Virtual Number also provides national numbers in more than 85 countries.
This can help businesses that work with customers in different countries. Customers can use a local number to contact the business.
If you need help choosing the right business number, contact us and we can explain the available options.