UK phone numbers can be confusing, especially when you’re choosing a business number and trying to avoid expensive call charges. The good news is, once you understand what each number range means, you can make a smart decision for your business.

This guide breaks down the most common UK phone number types and explains what they mean for your customers and your costs.

01 & 02 – Geographic Numbers (Local Area Codes)

 

Numbers starting with 01 or 02 are tied to a specific geographic area. In the past, your number reflected where your business was located — for example, a London number or a Birmingham number.

However, thanks to modern phone systems, you can now have a local number for one area while operating from another. This is useful for businesses that want to appear local in multiple regions without having multiple offices.

Best for:

• Local businesses

• Businesses wanting a local presence in multiple areas

• Customers who prefer calling local numbers

 

 

03 – National Non-Geographic Numbers (Included in Call Packages)

 

03 numbers were introduced to replace older non-geographic numbers like 0845 and 0870.

The key benefit of 03 numbers is that they must be included in standard call packages, meaning:

• Calls are charged at standard national rate

• They are included in inclusive minutes

• They are treated like 01/02 numbers for billing purposes

 

Best for:

• Small businesses that want a professional national number

• Customer service lines

• Companies who want fair call costs for customers

 

 

07 – Mobile Numbers

 

Numbers starting with 07 are mobile numbers.

Best for:

• Mobile staff

• Remote workers

• Small businesses that want a simple contact number

 

 

070 – Personal Numbers (High Cost for Callers)

 

Numbers starting with 070 are personal numbers that forward to another phone number.

They can be convenient, but they often cost much more than standard mobile calls, and many customers may avoid calling them.

Best avoided for business use

 

 

08 – Non-Geographic Numbers (Can Be Expensive)

 

Historically, 08 numbers were used for non-geographic services. However, many 08 numbers are expensive for callers, especially when not included in call packages.

Examples include:

• 0845 (local rate call, but not always included)

• 0870 (higher cost, not usually included in inclusive minutes)

 

Many businesses now prefer 03 numbers instead, because they offer a fairer pricing structure and better customer trust.

Best for:

• Some call centre setups

• National helplines (if pricing is clearly explained)

• Services where call costs are acceptable

 

 

09 – Premium Rate Numbers (High Cost + Legal Requirements)

 

Numbers starting with 09 are premium rate numbers and are usually used for:

• TV voting lines

• Competitions

• Information services

 

They are expensive for callers and require the cost to be clearly advertised.

Best for:

• Specific premium services only
  (not recommended for standard business use)

 

 

So, which number should your business use?

 

If you want a professional number that’s fair for callers ➡️ 03 is usually the best choice.

If you want a local presence ➡️ 01 or 02 geographic numbers.

If you want a simple mobile contact ➡️ 07 mobile number.

 

 

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Need help choosing the right business phone number?

 

Choosing the right number can impact:

• customer trust

• call costs

• brand perception

• business growth

 

If you’re unsure which option is best for your business, Via Wire can help you choose the right phone system and number type for your needs.