When you dial a phone number, the area code tells the phone company which geographic region to route your call. But what if an area code didn’t point to a specific city or state?
The 855 area code is one of those exceptions. Unlike traditional area codes, the 855 area code isn’t tied to any particular location.
So, if the 855 area code doesn’t tell you what city you’re calling, what’s the point? Many businesses use 855 numbers (and other toll-free prefixes) to expand their reach nationally and boost customer confidence.
This article will explain what the 855 area code is, how it works, and why it can be a smart move for businesses.
What is the 855 area code?
The 855 area code isn’t like most area codes you’re probably familiar with. For example, if you see the 212 area code, you know the call is coming from New York City. Similarly, 310 usually means the call originated in Los Angeles. But 855 doesn’t tell you anything about the location of the caller.
That’s because 855 is a “non-geographic” area code. It’s a toll-free number that can be used anywhere in the U.S., Canada, and some Caribbean countries. It is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), which is the telephone numbering system used by many countries in North America.
Is 855 a toll-free area code? Understanding toll-free numbers
Yes, 855 is a toll-free area code, but what does that really mean?
What is a toll-free number?
Toll-free numbers allow people to call businesses and organizations without being charged. Instead, the business or organization pays for the call.
How toll-free numbers work
When you dial a toll-free number, the call is routed through a central phone provider to the business’s designated phone line. Call forwarding can be used with toll-free numbers, so you won’t miss calls. In fact, businesses use call forwarding to avoid missed calls and manage workloads.
Toll-free number assignments
Toll-free numbers are assigned by organizations like the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Since the supply of 800 numbers has been exhausted, additional toll-free codes such as 833, 844, 855, 866, 877, and 888 have been put into service.
855 vs. Other Toll-Free Codes
The 855 area code is one of several codes in North America that allow callers to avoid long-distance charges. The others are:
- 800
- 888
- 877
- 866
- 844
- 833
The 800 area code was the first, introduced in 1967. As demand grew, new codes were activated: 888 in 1996, 877 in 1998, 866 in 2000, and finally 855 in 2010.
The 855 area code is a modern and widely available option. It works just as well as the older codes but might be easier to obtain if you’re looking for a toll-free number for your business.
Benefits of Using an 855 Number for Your Business
Using an 855 number can provide several advantages for your business, from creating a national presence to boosting customer trust. Let’s take a look at some of the key benefits.
National Presence and Credibility
An 855 number can make your business seem larger and more established, even if you primarily operate in a specific region. It gives the impression of a nationwide operation, which can enhance your company’s credibility and professional image.
Easy to Remember and Brandable
Toll-free numbers offer the option of vanity numbers, which are easy-to-remember sequences that spell out a word or phrase related to your business. For example, “1-855-MOVE-NOW” for a moving company or “1-855-GET-HELP” for a support service. These memorable numbers can significantly improve brand recall.
Call Forwarding Flexibility and Other Features
With an 855 number, you can take advantage of flexible call forwarding options. Businesses can route calls based on time zone, business hours, or even the caller’s location. Many Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) providers offer additional features like call recording, detailed analytics, voicemail-to-email transcription, and interactive voice response (IVR) systems to further enhance your communication capabilities.
Increased Customer Trust and Potential for More Callbacks
Customers often feel more comfortable calling a toll-free number, as it implies that the company is willing to invest in customer service and is easily accessible. This increased trust can lead to a higher volume of inbound calls, as potential customers are more likely to reach out when they know they won’t be charged for the call.
Scams and misconceptions about 855 numbers
It’s a common myth that 855 numbers are inherently unsafe, but that’s not really true. Toll-free numbers are generally safe, but like anything else, scammers can abuse them.
Scam calls from any area code are common these days, so you should always be cautious when you don’t recognize the number.
Here are some tips to help you avoid scams:
- Use a tool like TrueCaller or Whitepages Reverse Phone Lookup to get more information about the caller.
- If you answer the phone, don’t share any personal information until you’ve verified who you’re talking to. Ask them to verify themselves first.
Staying vigilant and informed is the best way to protect yourself from scams, no matter what area code the call is coming from.
How to get an 855 area code number
Getting an 855 number for your business is a straightforward process. Here’s how it works:
Figure out your business needs
First, take some time to think about how many calls you expect to handle. Do you need special features like call routing or voicemail? Who are you trying to reach with your toll-free number?
Choose a service provider
Next, research different providers that offer 855 numbers. Compare their prices, the features they offer, and how easy their service is to use. Pick the one that best fits your budget and needs.
Set up your 855 number
Once you’ve chosen a provider, check to see if the number you want is available. Then, register the number and set it up with the call routing and other features you need.
Promote your 855 number
Finally, let your customers know about your new 855 number! Put it on your website, in your email signature, in your ads, and even on your product packaging.
To Conclude
While the 855 area code doesn’t belong to any single city, it offers distinct advantages for businesses. It gives a business a national presence, boosts its brand, allows for easy call forwarding, and increases customer trust.
If you’re interested in getting an 855 number, be sure to contact a reputable organization and be wary of scams. A legitimate provider will help you acquire a toll-free number that suits your business needs.
The 855 area code and other toll-free numbers can be a valuable asset, helping businesses stay accessible to customers across the nation and project an image of reliability and professionalism.