Don't let 0870 changes cost you dearly - act now!

Companies which face losing money under new changes to 0870 phone numbers should urgently migrate to other codes, warns telephone numbers supplier Commsready.

Firms currently making money from 0870 numbers look set to lose out as their 'revenue share' is replaced by call delivery charges under new rules unveiled by telecoms regulator Ofcom.
The new rules will take effect on August 1 following an Ofcom review prompted by concerns at the high cost of dialling some 0870 numbers.

Daytime calls from a BT landline to 0870 numbers generally cost from 6p-10p/minute (1p-5p/minute at other times). Ofcom would like to see the cost of dialing an 0870 reduced to a rate similar to geographic numbers as a result of the imposed regulatory changes.
It is also likely that 0870 numbers - which up until now have been revenue share numbers - are to be replaced with a call delivery charge, meaning that many businesses' call strategies will change from profit centres to cost centres if they take no action.
Commready is advising companies and organisations currently using 0870 numbers to consider the following alternative phone numbers:

• Is revenue share of prime concern? If so, switch to an 0844 number.
• Is image important? Do you want a national presence without the consumer preconceptions that can surround '08' numbers? If so, choose an '03' number.
• Do you still want control over redirecting calls? Commsready's Inbound services offer call divert on geographic numbers as well as non-geographic numbers, so you are no longer restricted to 087 numbers for this capability.

A Commsready spokesperson said: "The latest changes outlined by Ofcom represent an important opportunity for you to review your telecoms strategy.
"The August 1 deadline is fast approaching but it is important that you are not panicked into taking a hasty decision. It could have expensive long-term consequences for your organisation.
"Expert advice is needed to ensure that you choose the number code that best suits you and your customers. Make sure you take full advantage of the latest phone number technology available to you."
Ofcom recently announced its final decision on the reclassification of 0871, 0872 and 0873 numbers as Premium Rate Services. This brings them under the regulation of PhonePayPlus (formerly known as ICSTIS).
Commsready has a range of solutions plus that can help companies comply cost-effectively with the new legislation and create more sales opportunities.
 
For more information about the 0870, 0871, 0872 and 0873 number changes, please contact Commsready marketing manager Colin Mann, 0808 168 6600, , www.commsready.co.uk