If providing exceptional customer service is part of your goal, then you may be familiar with this scenario:  You have a small team of highly skilled technicians who handle everything from basic troubleshooting to complex network issues. To improve customer service, your company recently introduced a toll-free number for their support hotline.

Who wouldn't want their customers to easily reach them without incurring any costs?

As it turns out, there are several benefits of an area code number that can help improve customer service. But what do they look like, exactly? Read on -- you’re about to find out.

What is 866 area code?

In simple terms, an area code is a code you need to dial before the phone number to call someone in a different city or region. An area code consists of three digits identifying a particular geographic region in a telephone numbering plan. 

An 866 area code number is a specific toll-free phone number assigned by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in North America. It starts with the three digits "866" followed by seven more digits, similar to a regular phone number format (e.g., 866-555-1212).

The key feature is that calls to these numbers are generally free for the person calling. The receiving party pays the cost of the call.

Introduced in 2000, the 866 area code was created to alleviate the pressure on the overloaded 800 toll-free code. Businesses commonly use 866 numbers for customer service hotlines, sales lines, or marketing campaigns. This encourages customers to call without hesitation due to potential charges.

Unlike traditional area codes tied to specific cities, the 866 code isn't tied to a location. You can call an 866 number from anywhere in North America.

Toll-free numbers, like 866, serve several purposes for businesses and organizations. By eliminating the cost barrier for callers, businesses can expect more inquiries from potential customers or interested parties. This can be especially helpful for customer service hotlines, sales lines, or marketing campaigns.

Besides 866, there are other toll-free area codes you might encounter in North America. Here are the most common ones:

• 800: This is the most widely recognized toll-free code, having been around the longest.
• 888, 877, 855, 844: These codes were introduced later as the demand for toll-free numbers grew. They all function the same way as 866, with calls being free to the person dialing.

Why choose an 866 area code for your business?

An 866 area code number provides a convenient way for businesses to be reached by customers across North America without incurring call charges for the caller. It's a win-win for businesses (increased accessibility) and callers (free calls).

Having a toll-free number like an 866 code creates a perception of legitimacy and an established presence. It shows customers you're invested in providing a convenient way to connect with you.

Unlike local numbers, 866 codes work across North America. This allows you to connect with a wider audience without needing separate numbers for different regions. The repeating digits (866) make it a memorable code, increasing the chances customers will recall it when they need to reach you.

Juggling multiple phone lines can be a hassle. Simpu simplifies this by seamlessly integrating your new 866 number with your existing business lines. This creates a unified inbox, so you can receive and manage all your calls, including those to your 866 number, from a single central location. 

Ultimately helping you streamline customer communication, improve support efficiency and ensure you never miss a customer call.

What is the location of an 866 area code number?

An 866 area code number doesn't have a specific location. It is designed for calls across North America. This includes the

• United States
• Canada
• Bermuda,  
• Caribbean islands covered by the North American Numbering Plan (NANP).

How are they different from other toll-free numbers?

There is no functional difference between 866 numbers and other toll-free numbers. All these numbers allow callers to reach businesses without incurring charges, as the recipient of the call bears the cost.

The 866 area code was introduced after the 800 area code. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) created additional toll-free codes, including 866, to meet the growing demand for toll-free numbers.

Advantages of having an 866 area code number.

Professional image.

An 866 toll-free number projects an image of an established, reputable business. It conveys that the company is committed to customer service and accessibility.

Toll-free numbers are associated with established businesses, which can instill trust in potential customers and partners. 

By offering a toll-free number, businesses demonstrate their willingness to bear the cost of communication, showing dedication to customer satisfaction.

Increased accessibility for customers.

Since 866 numbers are toll-free, customers can call without worrying about the cost of the call. This encourages more frequent and longer interactions, as customers are not deterred by potential charges.

866 numbers can be set up to route calls to different devices or locations, ensuring that someone is always available to answer customer inquiries, even outside of regular business hours.

Nationwide reach without long-distance charges.

By offering a toll-free 866 number, businesses can effectively market to and serve customers nationwide, expanding their potential market well beyond their local area.

The nationwide accessibility of an 866 number allows businesses to provide better customer support to clients across different time zones and geographical locations.

Availability compared to other toll-free numbers.

The 866 area code was introduced after more established toll-free codes like 800 and 888 became saturated. This means there is generally greater availability of desirable number combinations with 866 prefixes.

As older toll-free prefixes become increasingly scarce, having an 866 number positions a business to maintain a consistent contact point for the long term.

Perception and memorability.

An 866 number is instantly recognized as a toll-free number, conveying a professional and established business image. This perception can enhance credibility and trust among customers.

Toll-free numbers, including 866, are generally easier for customers to remember than local area codes. This increased memorability can lead to more repeat customers and word-of-mouth referrals.

Customer convenience.

866 numbers can be set up to route calls to different devices or locations, ensuring that someone is always available to answer customer inquiries, even outside of regular business hours.

Many businesses use 866 numbers for customer service lines that operate around the clock. This constant availability ensures that customers can reach out at any time, improving overall convenience.

Marketing and advertising benefits.

An 866 number can be used consistently across all marketing materials, from websites and advertisements to business cards and brochures. This helps reinforce brand identity and makes the number more memorable for customers.

Most number providers offer detailed call tracking and analytics, allowing businesses to measure the effectiveness of their marketing campaigns and make data-driven decisions to optimize their strategies.

How to get an 866 area code number.

Step 1: Determine your business needs.

Before selecting an 866 number, assessing your business needs is important. Estimate the expected number of incoming calls to determine if you need a basic toll-free number or a more robust solution with advanced features. 

Consider whether you need 24/7 availability, call routing, or other customer service capabilities. Determine if you need to integrate the toll-free number with your existing phone system, CRM, or other business tools.

Since 866 numbers are geographically independent, you'll want to consider the location of your target customer. If your customers are primarily local, a local number may be sufficient. 

But if you serve a national or international audience, an 866 number can provide broader accessibility. 

Plus, if you have customers in multiple time zones, an 866 number can ensure consistent availability.

When selecting your 866 number, you have two main options:

1. Vanity numbers: These are custom numbers that spell out a word, phrase, or acronym related to your business. Vanity numbers can be more memorable and impactful for marketing.
2. Random numbers: These are toll-free numbers assigned randomly by the provider. While less memorable, random numbers are often more readily available.

Consider your branding, marketing goals, and the availability of desirable vanity numbers when making your choice.

Step 2: Select a service provider.

There are a few main options for obtaining an 866 number:

1. Telecom companies: Traditional phone carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile offer toll-free numbers as part of their business phone services. They provide the infrastructure and support.
2. VoIP providers: Cloud-based Voice over IP (VoIP) services like RingCentral, Grasshopper, and Nextiva specialize in toll-free numbers and virtual phone systems. They are often more affordable and flexible than traditional telecom.
3. Toll-free number providers: Some companies focus solely on providing toll-free numbers and related services. They partner with telecom carriers.

Compare the specific features and pricing plans of different providers. Look for a wide selection of 866 numbers to choose from, including vanity numbers. Ensure the provider offers flexible call forwarding to your preferred phone number or device. 

Advanced providers offer detailed call tracking and analytics to measure performance. Compare the monthly fees and per-minute rates for toll-free calling. Look for providers with transparent, predictable pricing.

When selecting a provider, consider how easy it will be for your support agents to use the toll-free number. 

Ensure agents can easily access and use the toll-free number from their mobile devices. Choose a provider that integrates with your existing phone system, CRM, or other business tools.

Step 3: Set up your 866 area code number with Simpu

Once you decide to take the leap and transition your business phone to a toll-free number, it’s time to get that number set up.

Signing up for an 866 or other toll-free area code is super fast with Simpu. Because  operate using an internet connection, you won’t have to worry about configuring physical setups or buying new hardware.

It’s extraordinarily easy to claim a toll-free area code for your business online with Simpu using the following steps:

• Sign up for a free trial with Simpu using your Google account or another email address.
• After the sign-up process, follow the onboarding and set up your inbox (this is where you receive and send messages to anyone using the 866 number).
• After the inbox is created, go to settings and edit the inbox channels. You see an option to buy a phone number for $10. Click on it and follow the steps to connect it.

• Now all you have to do is pay for the Addon and start sending messages! You won’t be charged until the trial ends, and you can cancel at any time.

We’ll send you a reminder email when your trial is about to end. You’ll now have access to your new number across our web and mobile applications.

Conclusion.

If you're looking to transform your business's communication strategy and provide a more accessible, professional experience for your customers, explore the benefits of an 866 area code number with Simpu.  Take the first step today by using the right toll-free solution for your needs.

FAQs

• ‍What does an 866 number mean?

An 866 number is a toll-free phone number in North America, allowing callers to reach a business or organization without incurring any charges. 

• ‍Are there any restrictions on who can get an 866 number?

No, there are no specific restrictions on who can obtain an 866 number. Any business, organization, or individual can acquire an 866 toll-free number, provided they go through a service provider that offers these numbers.

• ‍How much does it cost to get an 866 number on Simpu?

The cost of obtaining an 866 number through Simpu is $10. This comes as an add on cost, asides your monthly subscription to the shared inbox costs. 

• ‍Why should I get an 866 number for my business?

An 866 number offers several benefits for your business. Customers can reach you without worrying about call charges, increasing the likelihood of inquiries. Toll-free numbers project a credible and established business presence. An 866 number allows you to connect with customers across North America without long-distance charges. The 866 prefix is easy to remember, making it more likely that customers will recall your contact number.

• ‍Where is the 866 area code?

The 866 area code is not tied to a specific geographic location. It is a toll-free code used across North America, including the United States, Canada, Bermuda, and several Caribbean islands. Calls to 866 numbers can be made from anywhere within this region without incurring any cost to the caller.

Read - 844 Area Code Guide: Everything you need to know about toll-free numbers.