Introduction to 0345 Numbers

0345 numbers are non-geographic phone numbers widely used by UK businesses and public sector organisations. They provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional landline numbers, as the call charges for 0345 numbers are typically the same as those for standard geographic numbers. Many people wonder, are 0345 numbers free to call? While they aren't free, calls to 0345 numbers are often included in mobile and landline plans, making the 0345 number cost manageable for most users.

What Are 0345 Numbers?

What Are 0345 Numbers?

0345 numbers are non-geographic phone numbers widely used by businesses and organizations across the United Kingdom. These numbers are increasingly popular as they are not tied to any specific location, allowing companies to provide a national point of contact without incurring high costs associated with traditional 08 numbers.

The 0345 prefix is part of the 03 range, regulated by Ofcom, the UK’s telecommunications authority. This means calls to 0345 numbers are charged at the same rate as calls to standard landline numbers (01 and 02), making them an economical choice for both businesses and customers. Many organizations, including government departments and large retailers, have adopted 0345 numbers to streamline their customer service operations.

When considering whether are 0345 numbers free, it's important to note that while they are not free, many mobile and landline plans include calls to 0345 numbers within their inclusive minutes. This makes contacting businesses straightforward and cost-effective for consumers.

In terms of 0345 number cost, calling these numbers typically incurs charges similar to those for geographic numbers, ensuring that customers can reach businesses without worrying about excessive fees. Overall, 0345 numbers represent a practical solution for businesses looking to maintain a nationwide presence while keeping communication costs manageable.

Cost of Calling 0345 Numbers from Landline

Calling 0345 numbers from a landline is generally affordable. Telecom providers in the UK charge these calls at the same rate as standard geographic numbers, such as those beginning with 01 or 02. This means that if your landline plan includes free minutes, you can call 0345 numbers without incurring additional costs.

However, if your plan does not offer free minutes, you will typically pay around 10p per minute for these calls. It's essential to check with your telecom operator for specific rates, as charges may vary based on the time of day and your provider's pricing structure.

In summary, 0345 number costs are designed to be accessible and often included in call packages. While they are not free to call, they are competitively priced compared to other non-geographic numbers, making them a cost-effective choice for contacting businesses and services across the UK.

Cost of Calling 0345 Numbers from Landline
0345 Numbers Call Charges from Mobile

0345 Numbers Call Charges from Mobile

Calling 0345 numbers from mobile phones typically incurs charges similar to calling standard landline numbers. If you have a mobile plan with inclusive minutes, calls to 0345 numbers are usually free, as they count against your allowance. However, if you exceed your free minutes, the cost can range from approximately 10p to 40p per minute, depending on your provider and the time of day.

It's essential to check with your telecom operator regarding specific charges for calling 0345 numbers, as rates may vary. While many providers treat these calls as standard rates, some may apply additional charges if you don't have inclusive minutes or if you call during peak hours.

Call Rates for 0345 Numbers

Calling 0345 numbers in the UK typically incurs charges similar to standard landline calls. The cost varies based on your network provider and whether you are using a landline or mobile phone. Generally, if you have inclusive minutes in your phone plan, calls to 0345 numbers may be free. Otherwise, charges can range from approximately 10p per minute when calling from a landline to about 30p per minute from a mobile, depending on your provider and plan.

To summarise, the cost of calling 0345 numbers is influenced by

  • Network provider
  • Phone package
  • Time of the call

It's essential to check with your service provider for specific rates and any applicable inclusions.

self-assessement
Number starts with Description Cost from Landlines (per minute) Cost from Mobiles (per minute)
01, 02 Geographic numbers for specific parts of the UK Up to 13p 3p to 55p
03, 0345 UK-wide numbers Up to 9p 3p to 55p
30 Not-for-profit organisations, charities, and public bodies Up to 10p 3p to 40p
7 Mobile numbers 10p to 20p 3p to 55p
70 Personal or ‘follow me’ numbers 4p to £3.40 (plus possible 51p) 30p to £2.50 (plus possible 51p)
0800, 0808 Free-phone service Free Free
0843, 0844, 0845 Business rate numbers Up to 7p + access charge Up to 7p + access charge
0870, 0871, 0872, 0873 Business rate numbers regulated by the Phone-paid Services Authority Up to 13p + access charge Up to 13p + access charge
9 Premium rate numbers regulated by the Phone-paid Services Authority Up to £3.60 + access charge, plus £5 to £6 per call Up to £3.60 + access charge, plus £5 to £6 per call
101 Police non-emergency number 15p per call 15p per call
105 UK-wide power cut helpline Free Free
111 Non-emergency medical advice Free Free
112 Emergency services Free Free
116 Freephone numbers Free Free
118 Directory enquiry numbers regulated by the Phone-paid Services Authority Up to £5 + access charge, possibly up to £6.98 per call Up to £5 + access charge, possibly up to £6.98 per call
999 Emergency services Free Free

This table provides a clear overview of the costs associated with calling different types of numbers in the UK, including 0345 numbers.

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Comparison of Call Charges for 0345 Numbers

When considering the cost of calling 0345 numbers, it's essential to understand how charges vary by provider. Generally, calls to 0345 numbers are treated similarly to standard geographic calls (01 and 02 numbers) under Ofcom regulations. This means that if you have inclusive minutes in your mobile or landline plan, calls to 0345 numbers may be free.

Here’s a quick overview of the approximate costs associated with calling 0345 numbers:

Provider Cost from Landlines (per minute) Cost from Mobiles (per minute)
BT Up to 9p 3p to 55p
Virgin Mobile Up to 9p 3p to 55p
EE Up to 9p 3p to 30p
O2 Up to 9p 3p to 30p
Vodafone Up to 9p 30p (without inclusive minutes)
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Frequently asked questions about 0345 numbers

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