Calling China: A Comprehensive Guide to Making International Calls
Calling friends, family, or business associates in China from abroad can seem daunting, but with the right information and a few simple steps, it’s a straightforward process. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding international dialing codes to exploring various calling options and optimizing your calls for cost and quality.
## Understanding the Basics: Dialing Codes and Formats
Before you even pick up your phone, it’s crucial to understand the dialing codes involved in making international calls to China. Here’s a breakdown:
1. **Exit Code (International Access Code):** This code allows you to dial out of your country. It varies depending on where you’re calling *from*. Common exit codes include:
* 011 (from North America)
* 00 (from most of Europe, Asia, and Africa)
You can usually find your country’s exit code with a quick online search (e.g., “exit code from UK”).
2. **Country Code for China:** This is the code that identifies China. The country code for China is **86**.
3. **Area Codes in China:** China is divided into various regions, each with its own area code. These codes typically consist of two to three digits and are *essential* for directing your call to the correct location within China. Some important area codes include:
* Beijing (Beijing): 10
* Shanghai (Shanghai): 21
* Guangzhou (Guangdong): 20
* Shenzhen (Guangdong): 755
* Chengdu (Sichuan): 28
* Hangzhou (Zhejiang): 571
A comprehensive list of Chinese area codes can be easily found online. Websites dedicated to international calling often have search tools to help you locate the correct area code for a specific city or region.
4. **Local Phone Number:** This is the actual phone number of the person or business you’re trying to reach. Local numbers in China typically have 7 or 8 digits.
**Putting it All Together: The Dialing Format**
The complete dialing format for calling China is:
**[Exit Code] + [Country Code] + [Area Code] + [Local Phone Number]**
For example, if you’re calling a number in Beijing (area code 10) from the United States (exit code 011), and the local phone number is 1234-5678, you would dial:
**011 + 86 + 10 + 12345678**
Let’s look at another example. If you’re calling a number in Shanghai (area code 21) from the UK (exit code 00), and the local phone number is 9876-5432, you would dial:
**00 + 86 + 21 + 98765432**
Always double-check that you have the correct area code and local number before placing your call.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Call
Now that you understand the dialing codes, let’s go through the process step-by-step:
1. **Find the Correct Exit Code:** Determine the exit code for the country you are calling from. If you’re unsure, a quick online search will provide the answer.
2. **Find the Correct Chinese Area Code:** Identify the area code for the specific city or region in China you are trying to reach. Use a reliable online directory or search engine to find the correct code.
3. **Obtain the Local Phone Number:** Ensure you have the complete and accurate local phone number of the person or business you wish to call.
4. **Dial the Complete Number:** Using the dialing format described above, carefully dial the complete number, including the exit code, country code, area code, and local phone number. Double-check each digit to avoid errors.
5. **Listen for the Ringing Tone:** After dialing, listen for the ringing tone. The ringing tone in China may sound slightly different from what you’re used to. If you hear a busy signal or an error message, double-check the number and try again.
6. **Introduce Yourself (If Answered):** If someone answers the phone, greet them politely and introduce yourself. Be mindful of the time difference between your location and China.
## Calling Options: Choosing the Right Method
Several options are available for making international calls to China, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Consider the following:
* **Traditional Phone Service (Landline or Mobile):** Calling directly from your landline or mobile phone is the most straightforward method, but it can also be the most expensive, especially for long calls. Check with your phone provider for their international calling rates to China.
* **Pros:** Simple and reliable, no special equipment needed.
* **Cons:** Can be expensive, especially for long calls.
* **International Calling Cards:** These cards offer a pre-paid amount of calling time at discounted rates. You dial a toll-free access number, enter your PIN, and then dial the international number. Calling cards can be a more affordable option than direct dialing, but the quality may vary.
* **Pros:** More affordable than direct dialing, pre-paid so you control your spending.
* **Cons:** Call quality can vary, may have hidden fees or expiration dates.
* **Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Services:** VoIP services like Skype, Google Voice, WhatsApp, WeChat (though primarily used within China), and Viber use the internet to make calls. These services are often significantly cheaper than traditional phone calls, especially for international calls. Some VoIP services require both parties to have the same app installed, while others allow you to call regular phone numbers.
* **Pros:** Significantly cheaper than traditional phone calls, often offers video calling, various features like call recording.
* **Cons:** Requires a stable internet connection, call quality depends on internet speed, may require both parties to have the same app.
* **Mobile Apps:** Many mobile apps offer international calling features, often using VoIP technology. These apps can be convenient for making calls on the go, but they also require a stable internet connection. Examples include: Rebtel, Talkatone, Vonage Mobile.
* **Pros:** Convenient for mobile calls, often cheaper than traditional phone calls.
* **Cons:** Requires a stable internet connection, call quality depends on internet speed.
* **Wifi Calling:** Most modern smartphones have a built-in Wifi calling feature. When enabled, your phone will automatically use your Wifi network to make and receive calls, even if you have a weak cellular signal. This can be a good option for making international calls if you have a strong Wifi connection and your mobile provider supports Wifi calling for international destinations.
* **Pros:** Uses Wifi network instead of cellular network, can be cheaper than cellular calls, improves call quality in areas with weak cellular signal.
* **Cons:** Requires a strong Wifi connection, call quality depends on internet speed, may not be supported by all mobile providers for international destinations.
When choosing a calling option, consider your budget, the frequency and duration of your calls, and the quality of your internet connection (if using VoIP or Wifi calling). It’s often a good idea to test a few different options to see which works best for you.
## Tips for Reducing Calling Costs
Calling China doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some tips to help you reduce your calling costs:
* **Compare International Calling Rates:** Before making a call, compare the international calling rates of different phone providers, calling card companies, and VoIP services. Rates can vary significantly, so it’s worth doing your research.
* **Use VoIP Services:** As mentioned earlier, VoIP services are often the cheapest option for international calls. Consider using Skype, Google Voice, WhatsApp, or another VoIP service to save money.
* **Take Advantage of Free Calling Apps:** Some apps offer free international calling to certain countries or regions. Look for apps that offer free calls to China, but be aware that these apps may have limitations or require you to watch ads.
* **Call During Off-Peak Hours:** Some phone providers offer discounted international calling rates during off-peak hours. Check with your provider to see if they have any such discounts available.
* **Keep Calls Short and Concise:** The longer you talk, the more you’ll pay. Try to keep your calls short and to the point to minimize your calling costs. Prepare a list of topics you want to discuss before making the call.
* **Consider a Calling Plan:** If you make frequent international calls to China, consider signing up for an international calling plan with your phone provider or a VoIP service. These plans often offer discounted rates or unlimited calling to specific countries.
* **Utilize Call Back Services:** Some services allow you to input your number and the number you wish to call, then they call *you* and connect the call. This can sometimes be cheaper, as the service is initiating the international leg of the call.
* **Use Wifi Whenever Possible:** When using VoIP or mobile apps for international calls, connect to a Wifi network whenever possible to avoid using your mobile data. This can save you money on data charges, especially if you have a limited data plan.
## Addressing Time Zone Differences
China operates on a single time zone: China Standard Time (CST), which is UTC+8. This means that the time difference between your location and China can vary significantly depending on where you are calling from. For example:
* When it is noon in New York City (EST), it is midnight in China.
* When it is noon in London (GMT), it is 8 PM in China.
* When it is noon in Los Angeles (PST), it is 4 AM the next day in China.
Before making a call to China, always check the current time in China to avoid calling at an inconvenient hour. Use an online time zone converter to determine the time difference between your location and China. Be mindful of cultural norms and avoid calling late at night or early in the morning.
## Troubleshooting Common Calling Problems
Even with the correct dialing codes and a reliable calling option, you may encounter some problems when calling China. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
* **Incorrect Dialing Codes:** Double-check that you have entered the correct exit code, country code, area code, and local phone number. Even a single incorrect digit can prevent the call from going through.
* **Busy Signal:** If you hear a busy signal, the person you are trying to reach may be on another call or their phone line may be temporarily unavailable. Try calling again later.
* **Error Message:** If you hear an error message, there may be a problem with the phone line or the international calling service you are using. Contact your phone provider or the VoIP service provider for assistance.
* **Poor Call Quality:** Poor call quality can be caused by a variety of factors, including a weak internet connection (for VoIP calls), interference on the phone line, or problems with the phone equipment. Try switching to a different calling option or troubleshooting your internet connection.
* **Language Barrier:** If you don’t speak Chinese, you may encounter a language barrier when calling China. Consider using a translation app or service to help you communicate, or ask a friend or colleague who speaks Chinese to assist you.
* **Call Not Connecting:** If the call is not connecting at all, even after repeated attempts, there may be a problem with the international calling service or the phone lines in China. Contact your phone provider or the VoIP service provider for assistance.
## Alternative Communication Methods
While calling is a direct method of communication, consider these alternatives:
* **Email:** Email is a reliable way to send messages, especially if immediate response isn’t needed.
* **Messaging Apps:** WeChat is incredibly popular in China and allows for text, voice, and video communication. WhatsApp is also an option but less prevalent.
* **Video Conferencing:** Services like Zoom, Skype, and Google Meet can be valuable for face-to-face communication, especially for business meetings.
## Cultural Considerations When Calling China
When making calls to China, it’s essential to be mindful of cultural considerations to ensure effective and respectful communication. Here are a few tips:
* **Greetings:** Begin with a polite greeting such as “Nǐ hǎo” (你好), which means “Hello” in Mandarin Chinese. When addressing someone, use their title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr.) followed by their last name. For example, “Nǐ hǎo, Wáng xiānshēng” (你好，王先生) would be “Hello, Mr. Wang.” For people you know well, you can use their first name, but always be respectful.
* **Politeness:** Politeness is highly valued in Chinese culture. Use polite phrases such as “Qǐng” (请), which means “Please,” and “Xièxiè” (谢谢), which means “Thank you.” Avoid being overly direct or confrontational, especially in business settings.
* **Formality:** Maintain a formal tone, especially when speaking to someone for the first time or someone in a position of authority. Avoid using slang or informal language.
* **Time Sensitivity:** Be mindful of the time difference and avoid calling late at night or early in the morning. If you are unsure, it is always better to ask if it is a convenient time to talk.
* **Business Etiquette:** If you are calling for business purposes, be prepared with a clear agenda and be respectful of the other person’s time. It is also a good idea to have any important documents translated into Chinese.
* **Gift-Giving:** In some situations, it may be appropriate to offer a small gift, especially when visiting someone in person. However, be aware of the cultural nuances of gift-giving in China, such as avoiding gifts that are considered unlucky (e.g., clocks).
* **Communication Style:** Chinese communication style tends to be more indirect than Western communication styles. Pay attention to nonverbal cues and try to read between the lines. Avoid interrupting or talking over someone.
* **Respect for Hierarchy:** In many Chinese organizations, there is a strong emphasis on hierarchy. Be respectful of people in positions of authority and address them accordingly.
* **Language:** If you don’t speak Chinese, it’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases. Even a simple “Nǐ hǎo” (你好) and “Xièxiè” (谢谢) can go a long way in showing respect.
By being aware of these cultural considerations, you can make a positive impression and build stronger relationships with people in China.
## Conclusion
Calling China might initially seem complex due to the international dialing codes and various calling options available. However, by understanding the dialing format, exploring different methods, and being mindful of time zone differences and cultural considerations, you can easily connect with friends, family, or business contacts in China. Whether you choose traditional phone service, VoIP, or mobile apps, remember to compare rates, optimize your calls for cost and quality, and be respectful of the recipient’s time and culture. With the information in this guide, you can confidently and affordably make international calls to China.