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 withDescriptionCost from Landlines (per minute)Cost from Mobiles (per minute)
01, 02Geographic numbers for specific parts of the UKUp to 13p3p to 55p
03, 0345UK-wide numbersUp to 9p3p to 55p
30Not-for-profit organisations, charities, and public bodiesUp to 10p3p to 40p
7Mobile numbers10p to 20p3p to 55p
70Personal or ‘follow me’ numbers4p to £3.40 (plus possible 51p)30p to £2.50 (plus possible 51p)
0800, 0808Free-phone serviceFreeFree
0843, 0844, 0845Business rate numbersUp to 7p + access chargeUp to 7p + access charge
0870, 0871, 0872, 0873Business rate numbers regulated by the Phone-paid Services AuthorityUp to 13p + access chargeUp to 13p + access charge
9Premium rate numbers regulated by the Phone-paid Services AuthorityUp to £3.60 + access charge, plus £5 to £6 per callUp to £3.60 + access charge, plus £5 to £6 per call
101Police non-emergency number15p per call15p per call
105UK-wide power cut helplineFreeFree
111Non-emergency medical adviceFreeFree
112Emergency servicesFreeFree
116Freephone numbersFreeFree
118Directory enquiry numbers regulated by the Phone-paid Services AuthorityUp to £5 + access charge, possibly up to £6.98 per callUp to £5 + access charge, possibly up to £6.98 per call
999Emergency servicesFreeFree

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:

ProviderCost from Landlines (per minute)Cost from Mobiles (per minute)
BTUp to 9p3p to 55p
Virgin MobileUp to 9p3p to 55p
EEUp to 9p3p to 30p
O2Up to 9p3p to 30p
VodafoneUp to 9p30p (without inclusive minutes)
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Frequently asked questions about 0345 numbers

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