How to Set Up an 800 Number
Many businesses use 800 numbers to save their customers the cost of long-distance fees when calling the company. 800 numbers are easily obtained through various 800 number providers. The key is to shop around and get the best rate for the toll-free number. Examples of toll-free number providers are Phone People, RingCentral and TollFreeNumbers.com (see Resources for links.)
Once the 800 number has been ordered and secured through a provider, the voice mail is set up for the number and calls are forwarded to a working telephone for the business. The business may choose to have all toll-free calls go directly to the designated voice mail box, or they may have the calls forwarded to the chosen business phone.
Things You Will Need
Phone to receive the toll-free calls
800 number provider
Step 1.
Shop around and select the best toll-free number provider for your business.
Step 2.
Complete the application. Most have an online application process.
Step 3.
Designate the phone the toll-free calls will forward to and associate this number with the new toll-free number in the application.
Step 4.
Provide payment arrangements and complete the order process.
Step 5.
Set up the voice mail box on the toll-free number. Set all configuration options for forwarding and voice mail. Many services have a web-based interface for setting up the toll-free service details.
Step 6.
Begin using your new 800 number for your business.
Tip
Many toll-free services use 866, 877 and 888 prefixes -- as well as other configurations.