Toll-Free Number - Virtual Assistant Forums

BTarbox · #1 (**permalink**) 03-26-2008

Could someone please share where they purchased their toll-free number from? And what do I need to look for when purchasing? Some sites have different in-state charges (higher) than out-of-state charges.

Thanks for your help!

Becky

Rebecka Melson · #2 (**permalink**) 03-26-2008

I just use my cell phone to recieve client calls and I use my home phone as a backup. Most people have unlimited long distance plans, so I don't think a toll-free number is necessary. I do have a toll-free fax number, but it came with the service for free. I use MyFax for my fax service.

BinAL · #3 (**permalink**) 03-26-2008

I use this company. The system includes eFax, toll free and local number, live call transfers to any phone (your cell, desk etc), voicemails, conferencing, and low International calling rates. It is all virtual and doesn't disrupt any existing services.

They are also my client and I was formerly employed by them, just so you know I have a bias

http://www.cellplusplus.com

Also, there is apparently some industry research indicating many people do not like to call long distance numbers, even if it is free for them. I will search to see if I can find a link.

BinAL · #4 (**permalink**) 03-26-2008

Here is an article mentioning the studies and other toll free number research

Quote:

Research shows that consumers who are looking though the phone book to find a business are much more likely to call one with a toll-free number than a business with a long-distance number.

In a study conducted by telecommunications R&D company Telcordia Technologies, formerly Bellcore, paper ads were run that were nearly identical except that one had a toll-free number and the other didn’t. The ads with the toll-free number received six times the number of calls than the ads without the toll-free number.

Here's a brief, very brief article http://www.nytimes.com/allbusiness/A...gewanted=print

VBP · #5 (**permalink**) 03-26-2008

I just purchased my toll-free number from RingCentral, www.ringcentral.com. Another option is PatLive that a client of mine uses as well. Your local phone service provider may be able to provide on also!

sarova · #6 (**permalink**) 03-26-2008

I have not used them myself, but I have heard that www.ringcentral.com is the best place for a toll-free number and voice answering system. From the blog I read the options are endless.
Debbie

Kerans VA · #7 (**permalink**) 03-26-2008

I have also heard many good things about Ring Central, I use GotVMail and it too, has many options and is very reasonable.

Good luck!

Delady · #8 (**permalink**) 03-27-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by BinAL

I use this company. The system includes eFax, toll free and local number, live call transfers to any phone (your cell, desk etc), voicemails, conferencing, and low International calling rates. It is all virtual and doesn't disrupt any existing services.

They are also my client and I was formerly employed by them, just so you know I have a bias

http://www.cellplusplus.com

Also, there is apparently some industry research indicating many people do not like to call long distance numbers, even if it is free for them. I will search to see if I can find a link.

This is an interesting service...I'll have to look into this more, thanks for posting!

BTarbox · #9 (**permalink**) 03-27-2008

Thanks so much for all of your advice! Looks like I have some research to do - but you've all certainly narrowed the field for me!

Becky

BinAL · #10 (**permalink**) 03-27-2008

I have heard good things about Ring Central in the biz, but haven't yet tested their offering. I think I will take a closer look at it as an "insider" for this type of service, so I can intelligently compare.