An 0800 number is a UK freephone number: it is free to call from all UK landlines and mobiles, and the business that owns it pays for the call. Calls to 0800 and 0808 numbers have been free from mobiles since July 2015.
Why businesses use 0800 numbers
- More calls. “Free to call” removes a reason not to pick up the phone, especially for sales enquiries.
- A national presence. An 0800 number is not tied to a town, so it suits businesses serving all of the UK.
- Trust and memorability. Memorable 0800 numbers work well in adverts and on vehicles.
- Flexibility. Calls can ring on any phone, anywhere, and be routed by time of day.
What it costs
You pay a monthly fee for the number and a per-minute rate for incoming calls, because callers pay nothing. VoIPer 0800 numbers start from £12.50 a month plus VAT. See 0800 numbers.
0800 or 0808?
Both are freephone. 0800 is better known, which is why most businesses prefer it.
When an 0800 number makes sense
Choose 0800 if you want to encourage sales calls, offer customer care that feels generous, or advertise nationally. If you mainly want to look local, a local 01 or 02 number is cheaper. If you want one national number at landline rates, consider 0345 or 0333.