From today Ofcom are changing the way that non-geographic numbers (NGNs) are charged in the UK…..
There’s lots of information available about the changes, but here’s a simple summary:
1) All 080x numbers will now be free to call from all UK destination, including mobiles.
2) If you own or operate an 0800 number, an additional charge will be generated for calls to that number to take into consideration that they are now free of charge from all platforms, including mobile operators.
3) To make the cost of calling 084, 087, 09 and 118 numbers clearer, Ofcom have split the cost into two parts; a service charge and an access charge.
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The service charge for numbers is set by the original range holder and remains the same regardless of where the call is made from.
- The access charge is then applied by your telephony provider to deliver the call.
Your access charge from Boxx is 8p per minute.
4) Charging bands are no longer associated to the prefix. For example ‘0870’ is no longer associated with a national call rate.
All 084 and 087 numbers are now banded by their service charge ranging from 1-13p per minute.
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084 numbers are capped at 7p per minute
- 087 numbers are capped at 13p per minute
The service charge for a number is dictated by the original range holder and has no bearing on the previous charge for the number i.e. a 5p per minute 0844 number may no longer be a 5p per minute service charge number under the new scheme.
5) Advertising rules have changed for 084, 087, 09 and 118 numbers, which must now advertised in the format,
Calls will cost you X pence per minute, plus your telephony company’s access charge.
To make it even easier to understand, Ofcom have produced the following video which is well worth a watch.
There is still a lot to digest though, so if you have any questions, you can either visit the UK Calling website or get in touch with us. We’ll be more than happy to talk you through it!
