In the world of toll free phone service, shared use versus ownership of numbers is a decision many subscribers have to make when they sign on for service. Shared use has benefits for some business owners but can also come with unforeseen disadvantages. Generally, owning a number outright is the better option because it secures the number for sole use indefinitely, and reduces misunderstandings and mistakes.
Shared use toll free numbers are exactly how they sound—shared by more than one subscriber. Calls to one specific number are routed to different phones depending on a variety of factors--most commonly by where the calls originate from. For instance, calls from Massachusetts to 866-MYSTORE might go to a company in Boston while calls made to the same number in Oregon will be connected to a line in Portland.
Subscribers with shared use should be educated about the toll free process and regulations—they are sometimes the victim of inappropriate leasing of toll free numbers. Also, anyone using a shared toll free number should familiarize themselves with who else is using that number.
Ownership often provides a better sense of security for consumers—customers and clients are generally more comfortable knowing exactly who they are calling, every time they call the number.
If you choose a customized toll free number for full ownership from
Tollfreenumber.ORG you will retain your number for as long as you like. You will be the only one with that number. You never risk losing the number if you change providers or move locations.
Switching an existing phone number can harm a business and cause it to lose customers. With ownership of a number, the toll free calls follow the business if it relocates or expands. The continuity provided by ownership is invaluable for most companies. Shared use may be right for a select few business owners but this decision should always be weighed very carefully.
Labels: 1-800 numbers. 800 numbers, shared use, tollfree, Tollfreenumber.ORG
