How to Call the USA from Australia: A Comprehensive Guide
Calling the United States from Australia might seem daunting at first, with different time zones and international dialing codes to consider. However, with a clear understanding of the process, you can easily connect with friends, family, or business associates across the Pacific. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, providing all the information you need to make successful and affordable calls to the USA from Australia.
## Understanding the Basics: Dialing Codes and Time Zones
Before diving into the step-by-step instructions, let’s cover the essential components of international calling:
* **Exit Code (International Access Code):** This code allows you to dial out of your current country. For Australia, the exit code is **0011**.
* **Country Code:** This code identifies the country you are calling. The country code for the United States is **1**.
* **Area Code:** This is a three-digit code that identifies a specific geographic region within the USA. For example, New York City’s area code is 212, while Los Angeles uses 213. You will need to know the correct area code for the person or business you are calling.
* **Local Number:** This is the seven-digit phone number of the person or business you are calling within the specified area code.
* **Time Zones:** The continental United States spans four major time zones: Eastern Time (ET), Central Time (CT), Mountain Time (MT), and Pacific Time (PT). Alaska Time (AKT) and Hawaii Time (HST) also exist. Considering the time difference is crucial to avoid calling at inconvenient hours. Australia also has several time zones, with Eastern Standard Time (AEST), Central Standard Time (ACST), and Western Standard Time (AWST) being the most common. Understanding the time difference between your location in Australia and the location you are calling in the USA is crucial. Use online tools or apps to determine the current time in both locations.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Calling the USA from Australia
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to make a call to the USA:
**Step 1: Dial the Exit Code**
Begin by dialing **0011**. This tells the Australian phone network that you are making an international call.
**Step 2: Dial the Country Code**
Next, dial the country code for the United States, which is **1**.
**Step 3: Dial the Area Code**
Enter the three-digit area code for the region you are calling in the USA. Ensure you have the correct area code; otherwise, your call will not connect. Double-check online if needed.
**Step 4: Dial the Local Number**
Finally, dial the seven-digit local phone number of the person or business you wish to contact.
**Putting it all together, the complete dialing sequence should look like this:**
**0011 + 1 + Area Code + Local Number**
**Example:** To call a number in New York City (area code 212) with the local number 555-1212, you would dial:
**0011 1 212 555 1212**
## Finding the Correct Area Code
If you don’t know the area code, you have several options for finding it:
* **Ask the person you are calling:** This is the most straightforward approach. Simply ask for their area code when you exchange contact information.
* **Online Search Engines:** Use search engines like Google or DuckDuckGo. Search for “area code for [city, state]” (e.g., “area code for Los Angeles, California”).
* **Online Area Code Lookup Tools:** Several websites offer area code lookup tools. Simply enter the city and state, and the tool will provide the corresponding area code. Examples include:
* [https://www.whitepages.com/area-code](https://www.whitepages.com/area-code)
* [https://www.allareacodes.com/](https://www.allareacodes.com/)
* **Reverse Phone Lookup:** If you only have the phone number but need the area code’s location, a reverse phone lookup service can help. However, these services may require a subscription or payment.
## Minimizing Costs: Affordable Calling Options
Calling internationally can be expensive, but several options can help you reduce costs:
* **Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Services:** VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, and Google Voice use the internet to make calls, often at significantly lower rates than traditional phone companies. These services usually require both the caller and receiver to have the app installed. WhatsApp and Viber primarily focus on mobile use, while Skype and Google Voice offer desktop applications as well.
* **Skype:** A popular VoIP service with competitive international calling rates. You can purchase Skype Credit or subscribe to a calling plan.
* **WhatsApp:** Allows free voice and video calls to other WhatsApp users worldwide. It’s a convenient option if the person you’re calling also uses WhatsApp.
* **Viber:** Similar to WhatsApp, Viber offers free calls and messaging to other Viber users. It also provides Viber Out, which allows you to call non-Viber users at lower rates.
* **Google Voice:** Offers free calls to the US and Canada from anywhere in the world (with some limitations). It also provides a US phone number and voicemail services.
* **Zoom/Microsoft Teams/Google Meet:** While primarily video conferencing tools, these platforms also offer voice call functionality, making them suitable for reaching contacts in the US, assuming reliable internet access.
* **International Calling Plans:** Many mobile and landline providers offer international calling plans that include discounted rates to specific countries, including the USA. Contact your provider to inquire about available plans and their costs.
* **Calling Cards:** International calling cards can be a cost-effective option, especially for occasional calls. You purchase a card with a specific value and use it to make calls at a pre-determined rate. Be sure to compare the rates and fees of different calling cards before purchasing one.
* **Mobile Apps with International Calling Features:** Many mobile apps, such as Rebtel and Localphone, specialize in providing affordable international calling options. These apps often use a combination of VoIP and local phone networks to reduce costs.
* **Wi-Fi Calling:** Many smartphones now support Wi-Fi calling, which allows you to make calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of using your mobile network. This can be a free or low-cost option if you have access to a reliable Wi-Fi connection. Check with your mobile provider to see if Wi-Fi calling is supported on your plan and device.
* **Comparison of Calling Methods:**
| Method | Cost | Convenience | Requirements | Best For |
| ——————— | ——————— | —————— | —————————————– | ——————————————— |
| Traditional Calling | High | Easy | Phone line/Mobile plan | Situations with poor internet connectivity |
| VoIP (Skype, etc.) | Low to Moderate | Moderate | Internet connection, App install | Frequent international calls |
| International Plans | Moderate | Easy | Subscription to a plan | Regular calls to a specific country |
| Calling Cards | Low to Moderate | Moderate | Purchase of a card | Occasional calls |
| Mobile Apps | Low to Moderate | Moderate | App install | Cost-conscious callers |
| Wi-Fi Calling | Free/Low | Easy | Wi-Fi connection, supported phone/plan | Calls when Wi-Fi is available |
## Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the correct dialing sequence, you might encounter issues when calling the USA. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
* **Incorrect Dialing Sequence:** Double-check that you have entered the exit code, country code, area code, and local number correctly. A single digit error can prevent the call from connecting.
* **Invalid Area Code:** Ensure that the area code you are using is valid for the region you are calling. Use an online area code lookup tool to verify the area code.
* **Network Congestion:** Sometimes, network congestion can prevent calls from going through, especially during peak hours. Try calling again later.
* **Blocked Number:** If the person you are calling has blocked your number, your call will not connect. Contact them through another means to resolve the issue.
* **Technical Issues with VoIP Services:** If you are using a VoIP service, technical issues such as poor internet connection, app glitches, or server problems can disrupt calls. Troubleshoot your internet connection and restart the app.
* **International Call Barring:** Your mobile or landline provider may have international call barring enabled on your account. Contact your provider to remove the restriction.
* **Time Zone Errors:** Accidentally calling during sleeping hours. Double check the time difference between your location and the location you are calling using a reliable online time zone converter.
## Understanding Time Zones: A Crucial Consideration
The United States spans multiple time zones, so understanding the time difference between Australia and the USA is crucial to avoid calling at inconvenient hours. Here’s a general overview of the time differences:
* **Eastern Standard Time (EST):** Generally, EST is 14-16 hours behind AEST (Australian Eastern Standard Time), depending on daylight saving time (DST) adjustments in both countries. EST covers states like New York, Florida, and North Carolina.
* **Central Standard Time (CST):** CST is usually 15-17 hours behind AEST. CST includes states like Illinois, Texas, and Alabama.
* **Mountain Standard Time (MST):** MST is typically 16-18 hours behind AEST. MST covers states like Colorado, Arizona, and Utah.
* **Pacific Standard Time (PST):** PST is generally 17-19 hours behind AEST. PST includes states like California, Washington, and Oregon.
**Daylight Saving Time (DST):** Keep in mind that both Australia and the USA observe daylight saving time, but the dates of these adjustments may differ. This can affect the time difference between the two countries. Always check the current time in both locations before making a call.
**Tips for Dealing with Time Zone Differences:**
* **Use a Time Zone Converter:** Use online time zone converters or apps to calculate the exact time difference between your location and the location you are calling.
* **Schedule Calls in Advance:** When possible, schedule calls in advance and confirm the time with the person you are calling to ensure it is convenient for both parties.
* **Consider Working Hours:** Avoid calling during typical sleeping hours (e.g., before 7 am or after 10 pm) in the recipient’s time zone.
* **Send a Message First:** If you are unsure about the best time to call, send a message (e.g., via email or messaging app) to ask when it would be a good time to talk.
## Alternative Communication Methods
Besides traditional phone calls, consider these alternative communication methods:
* **Email:** Email is a convenient option for non-urgent communication. You can send detailed messages and attachments without worrying about time zone differences.
* **Messaging Apps:** Messaging apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Telegram allow you to send text, voice, and video messages to contacts worldwide. These apps are often free to use and offer end-to-end encryption for enhanced privacy.
* **Video Conferencing:** Video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams are ideal for virtual meetings and video calls. They offer features such as screen sharing, recording, and chat, making them suitable for collaborative work.
* **Social Media:** Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can be used to connect with friends, family, and business associates in the USA. You can send messages, share updates, and participate in discussions.
## Conclusion
Calling the USA from Australia doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By understanding the dialing codes, time zones, and available calling options, you can easily connect with people and businesses in the United States. Choose the method that best suits your needs and budget, and remember to double-check the dialing sequence and time difference before making a call. With the tips and information in this guide, you’ll be able to make successful and affordable calls to the USA from Australia.