What Are 03 Numbers and How to Get One – Updated 2024

As a business, you have the opportunity to choose what contact numbers you would like for your business. But did you know that there are rules surrounding some numbers? If not, then you should know about the 03 numbers which are part of consumer rights legislation. Not supplying one could land you with a fine! So read on to make sure your business is compliant.

Why were 03 numbers introduced?

In 2007 Ofcom introduced a new range of 03 numbers.  They were set up to be used for after-sales customer support lines. Ofcom advised that numbers beginning with 084 would no longer be permitted to be used for aftersales services to customers. This was to ensure that when customers called a business for much-needed support they would not be charged a high 084 rate when using their home or mobile phone. Since 2017, it has been illegal for businesses to supply premium rate numbers to their customers for use in support or complaints.

What are the benefits of the 03 number?

For your customers, calling a number that starts with 03 will be charged at their local call rate. This means they’ll see the same cost on their bill as if they had called a 01 UK local number or 020 London numbers for those in the London locality. Also, it makes no difference whether people use their home phone or mobile, as local numbers are included in bundled minutes.

But apart from showing your customers that you care about the cost of contacting you, 03 numbers give your business a national presence. Having a national presence gives you increased credibility which is especially beneficial if you conduct your business throughout the whole of the UK.

What if you already have an 084 number?

Many businesses that have customers up and down the UK will already have an 084 number. What’s great, is that here at SwitchboardFREE we can provide you with a matching 03 number so your customers can easily recall your phone number. For example, if your number is 0843 289 1234, we can provide you with 0343 289 1234. This allows you to supply potential customers with your 084 number, then offer your new local-to-call 03 number (as required) for further contact to customer services.

If you want to become more customer-centric, with your SwitchboardFREE account you can have a custom message on your 084 line informing people of your new 03 number with a view to retire your 084 number completely. You will attract more new customers with a low cost to call number.

Who uses 0300 numbers?

When considering your new 03 number you may have come across 0300 numbers. These are predominantly reserved for non-profit organisations such as charities and public sector bodies and we don’t offer them at SwitchboadFREE. These are not free for people to call, so if you’re looking to offer your customers a free-phone number, you may wish to consider a 0808 number instead.

How much do 03 numbers cost?

At SwitchboardFREE you can choose a 03 number as your free number as part of your plan. Multiple 03 numbers start at £1.99 per month.

As for how much it costs your customer, that will depend on your customer’s call package and tariff. If local numbers are included within their monthly subscription, then calling your 03 number will essentially be free.

Utilising gold & silver 03 numbers

At SwitchboardFREE we hold a good range of silver and golden 03 numbers. What sets these numbers apart from others is that they are more memorable. Your customers will be able to call your number instantly. And when displayed on your marketing materials, potential customers can commit them to memory far more easily.