Calling internationally can seem daunting, but with a little preparation, it’s a straightforward process. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step involved in calling the Netherlands from the United States, ensuring you connect smoothly and avoid unexpected charges. Whether you’re calling Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, or any other city in the Netherlands, this guide has you covered.
Understanding the Basics: Country Codes, Exit Codes, and Phone Numbers
Before you dial, it’s essential to understand the key codes that make international calls possible:
- Exit Code (or International Access Code): This code tells your phone provider that you’re making an international call. In the United States, the exit code is 011.
- Country Code: This is a specific code for each country, used to route your call to the correct destination. The country code for the Netherlands is 31.
- Area Codes: The Netherlands uses area codes to designate specific regions or cities. These are typically two digits long but can vary.
- Local Phone Number: This is the recipient’s individual phone number, usually consisting of seven or eight digits.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Calling the Netherlands
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to dial the Netherlands from the US:
- Dial the Exit Code (011): Begin by dialing 011. This informs your phone carrier that you’re initiating an international call.
- Dial the Country Code for the Netherlands (31): Next, enter 31. This directs the call to the Netherlands.
- Dial the Area Code: Now, enter the specific area code for the city you’re calling. Here are some common area codes in the Netherlands:
- Amsterdam: 020
- Rotterdam: 010
- The Hague (‘s-Gravenhage): 070
- Utrecht: 030
- Eindhoven: 040
- Groningen: 050
- Tilburg: 013
- Almere: 036
- Breda: 076
- Nijmegen: 024
Important Note: When dialing from outside the Netherlands, you typically drop the leading zero from the area code. For example, if you’re calling Amsterdam, you’d dial 011-31-20, not 011-31-020. However, some calling methods (like certain VoIP services) might require the leading zero. Always double-check the specific instructions for your chosen method.
- Dial the Local Phone Number: Finally, enter the recipient’s local phone number. This is usually a seven or eight-digit number.
Example: To call a phone number in Amsterdam (area code 020) with the local number 1234567, you would dial: 011-31-20-1234567. Remember to remove the leading zero from the Amsterdam area code when dialing internationally.
Different Methods for Calling the Netherlands
Several methods exist for calling the Netherlands from the United States, each with its pros and cons:
- Traditional Landline or Mobile Phone: This is the most straightforward method, using your existing phone service. However, it’s often the most expensive, especially for long calls. Check with your phone provider for their international calling rates to the Netherlands.
- VoIP Services (Voice over Internet Protocol): VoIP services like Skype, Google Voice, WhatsApp, Viber, and others use the internet to make calls. These services are typically much cheaper than traditional phone calls, and some even offer free calls to other users of the same service.
- Mobile Apps: Many mobile apps specialize in international calling, often offering competitive rates. Examples include Rebtel, Vonage Mobile, and international calling cards available as apps.
- Calling Cards: Calling cards can be a cost-effective option, particularly for longer calls. You purchase a card with a specific amount of calling credit and then use it to make calls at a pre-determined rate. Be sure to read the fine print carefully, as some cards have hidden fees or expiration dates.
Comparing Calling Methods: Costs and Benefits
Let’s break down the costs and benefits of each method:
Traditional Landline or Mobile Phone
- Cost: Generally the most expensive option. Rates can vary widely depending on your provider and calling plan.
- Benefits: Simple to use, reliable connection (usually), no need for additional software or apps.
- Drawbacks: High cost, potential for unexpected charges.
VoIP Services (Skype, Google Voice, WhatsApp, Viber, etc.)
- Cost: Usually much cheaper than traditional phone calls. Some services offer free calls to other users of the same platform. Rates for calling landlines and mobile phones in the Netherlands vary depending on the service.
- Benefits: Lower cost, often offers additional features like video calling and messaging.
- Drawbacks: Requires a stable internet connection, call quality can vary depending on internet speed, may require both parties to use the same app for free calls.
Mobile Apps (Rebtel, Vonage Mobile, etc.)
- Cost: Competitive rates, often lower than traditional phone calls.
- Benefits: Convenient, easy to use on your smartphone, often offers special deals and promotions.
- Drawbacks: Requires downloading and installing an app, rates can fluctuate.
Calling Cards
- Cost: Can be a cost-effective option, especially for longer calls.
- Benefits: Prepaid, so you know exactly how much you’re spending, can be used from any phone.
- Drawbacks: Can have hidden fees or expiration dates, requires dialing a specific access number before making the call.
Tips for Saving Money on International Calls
Here are some tips to help you reduce the cost of calling the Netherlands:
- Use VoIP Services Whenever Possible: Take advantage of VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, or Google Voice, especially for longer conversations.
- Call During Off-Peak Hours: Some phone providers offer lower rates during off-peak hours. Check with your provider for details.
- Consider a Global Calling Plan: If you frequently make international calls, a global calling plan might be a worthwhile investment. These plans typically offer discounted rates for calls to specific countries.
- Use Wi-Fi: When using VoIP services, connect to a Wi-Fi network to avoid using your mobile data.
- Compare Rates: Before making a call, compare the rates offered by different providers and services.
- Be Mindful of Time Differences: The Netherlands operates on Central European Time (CET), which is typically 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST) in the United States. Be mindful of the time difference to avoid calling at inconvenient hours. During Daylight Saving Time (which the Netherlands observes), the difference is reduced to 5 hours.
- Ask the Recipient to Call You Back: If possible, ask the person you’re trying to reach in the Netherlands to call you back. This can be a cost-effective solution if their calling plan offers cheaper rates to the United States.
Troubleshooting Common Calling Issues
Here are some common issues you might encounter when calling the Netherlands and how to troubleshoot them:
- Call Not Connecting:
- Double-check that you’ve dialed the correct exit code, country code, area code, and local phone number.
- Ensure that your phone has international calling enabled (if using a mobile phone).
- Try using a different calling method (e.g., switch from a landline to a VoIP service).
- Contact your phone provider to ensure there are no restrictions on international calls.
- Poor Call Quality:
- If using a VoIP service, check your internet connection speed and stability.
- Try moving closer to your Wi-Fi router or using a wired internet connection.
- Close any other applications that might be using your internet bandwidth.
- Unexpected Charges:
- Carefully review your phone bill to understand the charges.
- Contact your phone provider to inquire about any unexpected charges.
- Consider switching to a different calling plan or service with lower international rates.
- Incorrect Area Code:
- Double check the city you are calling, and verify its corresponding area code.
- Use online resources or directories to confirm the correct area code if unsure.
Understanding Dutch Phone Number Structure
It helps to understand how Dutch phone numbers are structured to ensure accurate dialing:
- Geographic Numbers: These numbers are assigned to specific geographic locations and start with area codes (e.g., 010 for Rotterdam, 020 for Amsterdam). When dialing from within the Netherlands, you include the leading zero. When dialing internationally (from the US), you typically drop the leading zero from the area code.
- Mobile Numbers: Mobile phone numbers in the Netherlands typically start with 06. Like geographic numbers, the leading zero is usually dropped when dialing internationally.
- Non-Geographic Numbers: These numbers are not tied to a specific location and can be used anywhere in the Netherlands. They include:
- 0800 Numbers: Toll-free numbers, similar to 800 numbers in the US.
- 0900 Numbers: Premium-rate numbers, where you are charged a higher rate per minute. Be cautious when calling these numbers.
- 14xxx Numbers: Short service numbers used by government agencies and municipalities.
Emergency Numbers in the Netherlands
In case of an emergency in the Netherlands, here are the important numbers to know:
- 112: This is the general emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance services.
Making Calls to Dutch Mobile Phones
Calling a mobile phone in the Netherlands follows the same general procedure as calling a landline. The main difference is that mobile numbers typically start with ’06’. So, to call a Dutch mobile number from the US, you would dial:
011 (Exit Code) + 31 (Country Code) + 6 (Mobile Prefix – dropping the 0) + [Eight-Digit Mobile Number]
For example: 011-31-6-12345678
Calling Dutch Businesses
Calling a Dutch business is very similar to calling a residence. Find the phone number from their website or directory listing, and be sure to include the exit code, the country code for Netherlands, and the area code (dropping the leading zero if required by your calling service).
Keep in mind that Dutch businesses often operate during typical European business hours, which may be different than those in the United States. Check to ensure you are calling during their operating hours.
Staying Connected: Alternatives to Phone Calls
While phone calls are a reliable way to connect, other communication methods are also popular and can be more cost-effective:
- Email: Email is a great option for non-urgent communication.
- Messaging Apps: Apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Telegram allow you to send text and voice messages for free over the internet.
- Video Calls: Video calls through Skype, Zoom, or other platforms provide a more personal connection.
- Social Media: Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can be used to stay in touch with friends and family in the Netherlands.
Conclusion
Calling the Netherlands from the United States doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By understanding the dialing codes, exploring different calling methods, and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can stay connected with friends, family, and business contacts in the Netherlands without breaking the bank. Remember to always double-check the dialing codes and rates for your chosen method to avoid any surprises.