Area codes are those three-digit numbers that kick off every phone number. They tell the phone network what geographical region to route your call to.
The 231 area code covers a beautiful part of the country: Northwestern Lower Michigan and a portion of the Upper Peninsula. Think stunning shorelines, charming small towns, and plenty of cherry orchards.
For businesses, having a local phone number can be a great way to build trust with customers in the area. People often prefer to do business with companies that feel local and accessible.
In this article, we will explore the specific areas covered by the 231 area code. We’ll also dive into its history, discuss the benefits of having a 231 number for your business, and cover other essential information you should know.
Where is the 231 area code?
The 231 area code covers a broad swath of northern Michigan, including the northwestern portion of the Lower Peninsula and a few slivers of the Upper Peninsula.
Northwestern Lower Peninsula
Many of the most well-known cities in the northwestern Lower Peninsula use the 231 area code, including Traverse City, Petoskey, Cadillac, and Ludington, along with smaller towns and communities such as Manistee, Charlevoix, and Frankfort.
The 231 area code also encompasses key counties like Grand Traverse, Emmet, Wexford, and Mason. These counties are largely driven by tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. You’ll find rolling farmlands, scenic coastlines, and vibrant small towns throughout the region.
Parts of the Upper Peninsula
While the 231 area code is primarily located in the Lower Peninsula, a few areas in the UP also use it. These include communities in Mackinac County, such as St. Ignace, and parts of Chippewa County.
These areas of the Upper Peninsula are economically significant due to their tourism and natural resources. St. Ignace serves as a gateway to Mackinac Island, a major tourist destination, while the surrounding areas rely on forestry and outdoor recreation.
Time zone and its implications
The 231 area code operates on Eastern Time. From the second Sunday in March until the first Sunday in November, the region observes Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), which is four hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-4). For the rest of the year, the area code is on Eastern Standard Time (EST), which is five hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5).
If you’re doing business with people in the 231 area code, it’s important to remember these differences. When you’re scheduling meetings or phone calls, you’ll need to adjust your times to account for the Eastern Time Zone. If you’re on the West Coast, for example, you’re three hours behind. So a 2 PM meeting in California would be a 5 PM meeting in the 231 area code.
The story of the 231 area code
Area code 231 wasn’t always around. It came into being on June 24, 2000. Before that, the entire northern Lower Peninsula and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan were served by the 616 area code.
So why the change? Well, it all boils down to growth. The population was increasing, and with it, the need for more phone numbers. Plus, the rise of cell phones and internet dial-up further gobbled up available numbers. The existing 616 area code simply couldn’t handle the demand.
The creation of the 231 area code reflects the evolution of telecommunications in the region. From the early days of party lines to the modern era of fiber optics, the infrastructure has constantly adapted to meet the needs of residents and businesses. Unfortunately, I don’t know of any specific historical events or figures directly tied to the 231 area code itself, but it stands as a testament to the ongoing development of northern Michigan.
Benefits of a 231 Phone Number for Businesses
For businesses operating in or targeting the northwestern region of Michigan, using a 231 area code can offer some unique advantages.
Establishing a Local Presence and Building Trust
Using a 231 area code helps businesses create a local identity, signaling a commitment to the communities within the region. It tells potential customers, “We’re part of your neighborhood.” This can be particularly important for smaller businesses trying to establish themselves in a competitive market.
Customers often feel more comfortable and trusting of businesses that have a local phone number. They perceive these businesses as being more accessible, reliable, and invested in the local economy.
Enhancing Customer Relations and Improving Communication
A local phone number makes it easier for customers in the 231 area to contact the business without having to worry about long-distance charges. This can be a significant factor for customers who prefer to call for inquiries, support, or making purchases.
Having a local presence can also improve the perception of customer service and responsiveness. Customers may feel that a local business is more likely to understand their needs and provide personalized attention.
Potential for Enhanced Cold Calling Performance
While cold calling may not be everyone’s favorite tactic, a local area code can increase the likelihood of those calls being answered. People are generally more inclined to answer calls from local numbers they recognize, rather than unknown numbers from out of state.
Referencing local connections or events can help you build rapport with potential customers during cold calls. Mentioning something specific to the 231 area can show that you’re familiar with the community and understand their needs.
Marketing and Advertising Advantages
Using the 231 area code in your marketing materials, website, and business cards can be a simple yet effective way to attract local customers. It reinforces the message that you’re a local business that’s invested in serving the community.
Local phone numbers can also improve the effectiveness of targeted advertising campaigns. By focusing your advertising efforts on the 231 area code, you can reach a more relevant audience and increase the likelihood of generating leads and sales.
Obtaining a 231 Phone Number: Options and Considerations
So, you want a 231 area code for your phone number? Here’s what you need to know about getting one.
Traditional Landline vs. Virtual Phone Systems (VoIP)
Back in the day, you’d get a phone number from your local phone company, and that number would be tied to a physical phone line running into your house or business. Those days are pretty much gone now. Landlines are expensive, and they don’t offer a lot of features.
These days, most people use VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, which lets you make and receive calls over the internet. VoIP is cheaper, more flexible, and offers a lot more features than a traditional landline.
Choosing a Virtual Phone System Provider
If you want a 231 area code, you’ll need to go with a VoIP provider. Look for a provider that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. You’ll also want to make sure they’re reliable, have good customer support, and offer good security. One popular VoIP provider that offers 231 numbers is Talkroute.
Steps to Acquire a 231 Phone Number
Once you’ve chosen a VoIP provider, you can select a new phone number with a 231 area code, or you can transfer an existing business number to the provider.
Be prepared to verify your identity and provide some documentation.
Considerations for Businesses Without a Physical Michigan Address
Do you need to have a physical address in Michigan to get a 231 area code? Not necessarily. Some VoIP providers don’t require it. Shop around and see what you can find.
Practical applications of the 231 area code for businesses
If your business operates in the 231 area code, using a 231 number strategically can offer several advantages:
- Direct phone lines: Give employees and departments their own direct lines. This improves both internal and external communication.
- Dedicated customer service: Offer a specific phone number for customer service inquiries and support. This can improve customer satisfaction.
- Sales and marketing campaign tracking: Use different 231 numbers for different marketing campaigns. This lets you track which campaigns are most effective.
- Local business listings and online presence: Make sure your business consistently uses the 231 area code in all online listings and on your website. This will help customers find you more easily.
By taking advantage of the 231 area code, you can enhance your business’s communication, customer service, and marketing efforts within the local community.
Things to keep in mind
Area codes can be confusing, so let’s clear up a few things about the 231 area code.
First, a common question: Is the 231 area code toll-free? No, it isn’t. Calls to numbers with the 231 area code are subject to standard long-distance charges, depending on your phone plan.
Second, it’s easy to mix up area codes, especially if you’re not familiar with the region. Always double-check the number you’re dialing to avoid misdialing or accidentally calling someone in the wrong area. If you’re doing business in the 231 area code, make sure your marketing materials and contact information clearly display the correct area code.
Finally, remember that the telecommunications industry is heavily regulated. If you are setting up a business or doing a lot of business in the 231 area code, familiarize yourself with the rules.
Final Thoughts
Using a 231 area code for your business can help you create a local presence, strengthen relationships with your customers, and improve the effectiveness of your marketing efforts. Whether you’re based in Traverse City, Muskegon, or anywhere else in the 231 area, it’s a great way to connect with the people who live and work there.
When choosing a telecommunications solution, be sure to weigh the pros and cons of traditional landlines versus VoIP systems. VoIP can offer more flexibility and affordability, but landlines may provide more reliability in certain situations.
In today’s business environment, local area codes still offer a valuable way to build trust and foster stronger connections with local communities. They show that you’re invested in the area and committed to serving its residents.
If you’re looking to expand your business or establish a presence in Northwest Michigan, I encourage you to explore the possibilities of the 231 area code. It could be just what you need to take your business to the next level.