Digital Select Ltd
A clear guide to UK 01, 02, 03, 0345, 0371, 070, 080, 084, 087, 09 and 118 telephone numbers and typical call charging.
A number’s first digits indicate its range and broad purpose, but the caller’s actual price also depends on their provider and package. Premium-rate and revenue-sharing ranges should not be confused with geographic-rate 03 numbers.
Numbers beginning 01 or 02 are associated with UK geographic area codes. Businesses often use local numbers to create a recognisable presence in the areas they serve.
All 03 numbers are UK-wide non-geographic numbers charged at no more than calls to 01 or 02 and included in call allowances on the same basis. 0345 and 0371 are not premium-rate ranges; they were made available as geographic-rate alternatives corresponding to 0845 and 0871 services.
070 numbers are personal or follow-me numbers rather than mobile numbers. They can route calls to another destination. Calling prices vary, so callers should check their tariff before dialling.
0800 and 0808 numbers are free for consumers to call from UK landlines and mobiles. The receiving organisation normally pays for the inbound call.
Calls to 084 and 087 service numbers use an access charge plus a service charge. Some 084 and 087 ranges can support revenue sharing, but pricing and promotion must follow applicable rules.
09 numbers support higher-charged services such as specialist information, entertainment and eligible payment applications. The advertised service charge is added to the caller’s network access charge.
118 numbers are reserved for directory-enquiry services. Their price combines an access charge and service charge, and onward connection can increase the total cost.
Callers should review advertised pricing and their provider’s tariff. Service operators should confirm the current Ofcom numbering, registration, pricing, marketing and consumer-protection requirements before launch.
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