Difference Between Toll Free and Local Number - Which One to Choose?

Local and toll free numbers are useful yet varied solutions for businesses. The key difference between toll free vs. local numbers is the requirements they fulfill and the objectives they aim at. When choosing one of these, a business should, therefore, be aware of its goals and needs to manage. Moreover, it should consider some key points of differentiation. Though both types of virtual phone numbers are useful, they cater to varying use cases. The locations they operate in differ as well. Furthermore, these telephone numbers come with unique advantages that benefit brands or businesses in their own ways.

What is a Local Number?

Local numbers are digits indicative of specific states, regions, or cities. This is dependent on the countries to which those phone numbers belong. Take into account that since these are local, they are not supportive of long-distance calling.  

• Globally, a majority of the numbers used are local and are easily available. 

• Individuals as well as businesses rely on their usage. 

• They are functional as standard contact numbers.

• Thus, standard charges apply when they are used. 

What is a Toll Free Number?

A toll free number is a 3-digit code. When investing in it, the charge for a call is billed to its recipient in place of the caller. Thus, it enables customers or leads to make calls for free. As a result, they can easily call particular businesses, especially when the distance is long. 

Note: Such a number begins with a specific area code, for example, 800, 888, or 833. 

Toll Free vs. Local Number - What is the Difference?

The main difference between toll free vs. local numbers is that their use cases vary. Accordingly, they are apt for targeting different customers. Note that these numbers differ vastly in terms of locations as well. Therefore, in order to select one of these, such important areas of differentiation should be looked at.

In Terms of Use Cases

Toll free and local numbers differ mainly in terms of situations in which they are useful. Toll free phone numbers are apt for targeting customers across the globe. As no geographical limitations arise, callers can connect with companies to resolve their queries or concerns regarding their products/services. 

On the other hand, a local number is the best for targeting consumers within a country and, specifically, within a region. In this regard, it is supportive of local marketing as well. 

Considering Geographical Limitations

A crucial point of difference between a toll free vs. local number is the barrier arising from geographical locations. It is to note that when investing in a toll free telephone number, a company has access to global reach. Thus, connections between the company and its callers are facilitated regardless of any physical boundaries. 

In the case of a local phone number, however, there are certain limitations due to location. It is restricted to a particular area, state, or city. Outside this region, the use of the phone number is limited. It can, otherwise, incur a long-distance calling fee. 

Concerning the Level of Professionalism 

While choosing between toll free vs. local numbers, a professional appeal is an aspect that matters. Although businesses invest in both types, it is more professional to consider toll free numbers. Investing in these can make companies appear well-established. Besides, they add to their credibility, demonstrating the willingness to help callers or customers.

Comparing Advantages of Local and Toll Free Numbers

Local and toll free phone numbers are advantageous in their own ways and relevant to businesses as per their needs. They ensure the ease of using them, though audience reach varies. Thus, considering which one to choose between toll free vs. local numbers, it is useful to go through the advantages of each to manage those requirements. 

Advantages of Local Numbers	Benefits of Toll Free Numbers
Although low charges apply when connecting with brands, communication for free is limited.	A customer or caller incurs no charge when contacting a brand through its toll free number.
Local numbers enable targeting leads or consumers regionally.	Ensuring international reach, these contact numbers make it possible to target buyers beyond any boundaries.
These numbers are accessible to a local audience to connect with businesses in their areas.	Accessibility to globally communicate with companies widens when using these numbers.
Local phone numbers make a company more focused on customers in specific regions.	These numbers add to the customer-centricity of companies that enable communication at no cost.
These numbers enable quick/long calls with brands. However, since they are chargeable, short calls are more suitable.	Using these telephone numbers, a buyer can speak with a brand for both long and short durations for free.
Convenience is assured to local customers when using these telephone numbers.	It is convenient to use toll free numbers as they let customers worldwide speak with businesses for all of their queries, concerns, and feedback.

How to Buy a Local Number or Toll Free Number?

After selecting the best option between local vs. toll free numbers, it is important to know how to buy them. Certain platforms are apt for purchasing virtual phone numbers. Teldrip Connect, for example, enables businesses to access such solutions with ease. In order to meet its diverse goals, a business can purchase a local or toll free number at a competitive cost.

• Particularly when relying on Teldrip Connect to buy virtual numbers, brands can track calls.

• They can be assigned to marketing campaigns to observe the volume of calls they generate.

• By assessing the nature of calls, one can detect the effectiveness of campaigns in generating leads.

Note: Call tracking is a process/technology to monitor the source of calls and other valuable insights.

As a Final Observation

There are various differences between toll free vs. local numbers, such as the locations they are accessible in and the pain points they resolve. On the basis of a detailed comparison, it is possible to choose the best one. Keep in mind to buy such a virtual number from a reliable platform for smooth functionality and maximum benefits.