How to Call Abroad From Your Landline: A Comprehensive Guide
Calling internationally from a landline might seem like a relic of the past in the age of smartphones and VoIP services. However, landlines still offer reliable connections and clear audio quality, especially in areas with spotty mobile coverage. Plus, for some, it’s simply a matter of preference or habit. If you need to make an international call from your landline, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding international dialing codes to comparing different calling plans and troubleshooting common issues.
## Understanding the Basics of International Calling
Before you pick up your phone and start dialing, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental components of an international phone number. An international phone number comprises three parts:
1. **Exit Code (International Access Code):** This code tells your phone carrier that you’re making an international call. It varies depending on the country you are calling *from*. Common exit codes include:
* 011 (North America: United States, Canada, etc.)
* 00 (Most of Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America)
* 0011 (Australia)
You’ll need to find the correct exit code for your location before proceeding. A quick online search for “international exit code [your country]” will provide the correct code.
2. **Country Code:** This is a one- to three-digit number that identifies the country you’re calling *to*. For example:
* 1 (United States and Canada)
* 44 (United Kingdom)
* 49 (Germany)
* 81 (Japan)
* 33 (France)
* 39 (Italy)
* 61 (Australia)
* 86 (China)
A complete list of country codes can be easily found online. Make sure you have the correct country code for the destination you’re calling.
3. **Local Number:** This is the phone number of the person or business you are trying to reach in the destination country. This part of the number usually includes an area code (or city code) and the subscriber number.
### Putting It All Together
To make an international call, you need to dial these components in the correct order:
`[Exit Code] + [Country Code] + [Local Number]`
**Example:**
Let’s say you’re calling a friend in London, England from the United States. The phone number in London is 020 7946 0895. The international call would be dialed as follows:
`011 + 44 + 20 7946 0895`
* `011` is the exit code for the United States.
* `44` is the country code for the United Kingdom.
* `20 7946 0895` is the local number in London (the ‘0’ is usually dropped when dialing internationally).
## Step-by-Step Guide to Making an International Call from a Landline
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to making your international call:
1. **Find Your Country’s Exit Code:** Before anything else, identify the exit code for the country you are calling from. As mentioned earlier, a quick online search will give you the correct code. Double-check that you have the right code for your location.
2. **Find the Country Code of Your Destination:** Determine the country code for the country you are calling. Again, a simple online search will quickly provide you with the correct country code. Cross-reference the code to ensure accuracy.
3. **Obtain the Local Phone Number:** Get the complete local phone number of the person or business you wish to call, including the area code or city code, if applicable. Confirm that you have the correct number, including any leading zeros that need to be dropped when dialing internationally (more on this below).
4. **Dial the Number:** Pick up your landline phone and carefully dial the following sequence:
* **Exit Code:** Dial the exit code for your country.
* **Country Code:** Dial the country code for the destination country.
* **Local Number:** Dial the local phone number, remembering to drop any unnecessary leading zeros.
5. **Wait for the Connection:** After dialing the number, wait for the connection to be established. This may take a few seconds, so be patient. You should hear ringing or a dialing tone.
6. **Speak Clearly:** Once the call connects, speak clearly and concisely. International calls can sometimes have a slight delay, so allow a moment for the other person to hear you before continuing.
## Important Considerations: Dropping Leading Zeros
One of the most common mistakes people make when calling internationally is not correctly handling leading zeros in the local phone number. Many countries include a leading zero in their area codes or city codes. When dialing internationally, this leading zero is often dropped.
**Example:**
In Italy, a phone number might look like this: 06 1234 5678. When calling this number from outside Italy, you would drop the leading zero in the area code (06) and dial it like this (assuming the US exit code and Italy’s country code): 011 39 6 1234 5678.
Always check the specific dialing instructions for the country you’re calling to confirm whether or not to drop the leading zero. A quick online search like “calling [country name] from [your country]” will usually provide specific instructions.
## Understanding International Calling Costs and Plans
International calls from a landline can be expensive, especially if you don’t have an international calling plan. Before making frequent international calls, it’s essential to understand the costs involved and explore available options for reducing your expenses.
### Traditional Landline Calling Plans
Many traditional landline providers offer international calling plans that can significantly reduce the cost of calling specific countries. These plans typically offer a fixed number of minutes per month for a set fee. Contact your landline provider to inquire about their international calling plans and compare their rates to other options.
* **Bundled Plans:** Some providers offer bundled plans that include local calls, long-distance calls, and international calls for a single monthly fee. These plans can be cost-effective if you make a variety of calls.
* **Country-Specific Plans:** If you frequently call a specific country, look for country-specific calling plans that offer the lowest rates for that destination.
* **Pay-Per-Minute Rates:** If you don’t subscribe to an international calling plan, you’ll be charged pay-per-minute rates, which can be quite high. Be aware of these rates before making an international call without a plan.
### Alternative Options for Cheaper International Calls
While landline international calling plans are an option, several alternative methods can offer even cheaper international calls:
1. **VoIP Services (Voice over Internet Protocol):** VoIP services like Skype, Google Voice, WhatsApp, and Viber use the internet to make calls, often at significantly lower rates than traditional landlines. Many VoIP services offer international calls for just a few cents per minute, and some even offer free calls to other users of the same service.
* **Skype:** Skype is one of the most popular VoIP services, offering both free calls to other Skype users and paid calls to landlines and mobile phones around the world. You can purchase Skype credits or subscribe to a monthly plan for reduced rates.
* **Google Voice:** Google Voice allows you to make and receive calls over the internet using a Google account. It offers competitive international calling rates and integrates seamlessly with other Google services.
* **WhatsApp and Viber:** These messaging apps also offer voice and video calling features, allowing you to make free calls to other users of the same app. If the person you’re calling also uses WhatsApp or Viber, this can be a completely free option.
2. **Mobile Apps with International Calling:** Many mobile apps, such as Rebtel and Vonage Mobile, specialize in providing low-cost international calls. These apps typically use a combination of VoIP and local phone lines to minimize costs. They often offer free trial periods or promotional rates to attract new users.
3. **International Calling Cards:** Calling cards, also known as prepaid phone cards, are another option for making cheaper international calls. You purchase a card with a certain amount of credit and then use it to make calls at discounted rates. However, be aware of hidden fees and surcharges, as some calling cards can be deceptive.
### Comparing Costs
Before choosing an international calling option, compare the costs of different providers and plans. Consider the following factors:
* **Per-minute rates:** How much does it cost per minute to call your desired destination?
* **Monthly fees:** Are there any monthly fees or subscription charges?
* **Connection fees:** Are there any connection fees charged for each call?
* **Minimum call duration:** Is there a minimum call duration that you’ll be charged for, even if you don’t use the entire time?
* **Hidden fees:** Are there any hidden fees or surcharges that you should be aware of?
Create a spreadsheet or use an online comparison tool to compare the costs of different options and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
## Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful planning, you might encounter problems when making international calls from your landline. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
1. **Call Not Connecting:**
* **Incorrect Number:** Double-check that you have dialed the correct exit code, country code, and local number. Ensure that you have dropped any unnecessary leading zeros.
* **Line Issues:** The phone line might be experiencing technical difficulties. Try calling again later, or contact your landline provider to report the issue.
* **Blocked Number:** The recipient might have blocked your number or your country code.
2. **Poor Audio Quality:**
* **Network Congestion:** Network congestion can sometimes cause poor audio quality on international calls. Try calling again at a different time, when the network might be less busy.
* **Hardware Issues:** There might be a problem with your phone or the recipient’s phone. Try using a different phone or asking the recipient to check their equipment.
* **Internet Connection (for VoIP):** If you’re using a VoIP service, a slow or unstable internet connection can cause poor audio quality. Check your internet connection and try restarting your modem and router.
3. **Unexpected Charges:**
* **Lack of a Calling Plan:** Make sure you have an international calling plan or that you are aware of the pay-per-minute rates before making the call.
* **Hidden Fees:** Carefully review your phone bill to check for any hidden fees or surcharges. Contact your landline provider if you have any questions about the charges.
* **Incorrect Dialing:** Dialing the wrong number or failing to drop a leading zero can sometimes result in unexpected charges.
## Tips for Saving Money on International Calls
Here are some additional tips for saving money on international calls:
* **Call During Off-Peak Hours:** Some providers offer lower rates during off-peak hours, such as evenings or weekends.
* **Use a Calling Card with Caution:** If you use a calling card, carefully read the terms and conditions to avoid hidden fees and surcharges.
* **Ask About Discounts:** Inquire about any available discounts for seniors, students, or other groups.
* **Consider a Callback Service:** Callback services allow you to initiate a call and then have the service call you back, often at lower rates.
* **Plan Your Calls:** Before making an international call, plan what you want to say to avoid wasting time and money.
## Conclusion
While smartphones and VoIP services have revolutionized international communication, landlines remain a viable option, particularly for those seeking reliable connections and clear audio quality. By understanding the intricacies of international dialing codes, exploring different calling plans, and troubleshooting common issues, you can make international calls from your landline effectively and affordably. Remember to carefully compare the costs of different options and choose the one that best fits your specific needs and calling patterns. With a little planning and preparation, you can stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues around the world without breaking the bank.