How to Call the United States from the Netherlands: A Comprehensive Guide

Calling internationally can seem daunting, but with a clear understanding of the process, it’s surprisingly straightforward. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step necessary to successfully call the United States from the Netherlands, covering everything from dialing codes to cost-saving tips.

Understanding the Basics: Why Calling Internationally Requires Specific Steps

When making a local call within the Netherlands, you simply dial the phone number. However, calling the United States from the Netherlands requires additional steps because you’re connecting to a phone network in a different country with its own unique numbering system and routing procedures. This involves using specific codes to tell the Dutch telecommunications network that you want to make an international call and then directing the call to the United States’ network.

The key components involved in making an international call are:

* **Exit Code (or International Access Code):** This code tells the phone network in the country you’re calling *from* that you’re about to make an international call. Different countries have different exit codes. For the Netherlands, the exit code is **00**.
* **Country Code:** This code identifies the country you’re calling *to*. Each country has a unique country code. For the United States, the country code is **1**.
* **Area Code:** This code identifies a specific geographic region within the destination country. The United States is divided into numerous area codes, each covering a distinct region. You need to know the correct area code for the city or region you’re trying to reach.
* **Local Phone Number:** This is the seven-digit phone number of the person or business you’re trying to call within the specified area code.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Call

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps involved in calling the United States from the Netherlands:

**Step 1: Dial the Exit Code (00)**

First, dial **00**. This informs the Dutch telephone network that you’re initiating an international call. Wait for a dial tone or a brief pause after dialing the exit code.

**Step 2: Dial the Country Code for the United States (1)**

Next, dial **1**, the country code for the United States. This directs your call to the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), which encompasses the United States, Canada, and several other territories.

**Step 3: Dial the Area Code**

Now, you need to dial the correct area code for the specific region you’re calling in the United States. Area codes are three digits long. If you don’t know the area code, you can:

* **Ask the person you’re calling:** The easiest way is to simply ask them for their full phone number, including the area code.
* **Use an online area code lookup tool:** Several websites and apps allow you to search for area codes based on city or state. Just search for “area code lookup” on Google or your preferred search engine. Some popular options include:
* **AreaCodeDownload.com:** A straightforward and easy-to-use website.
* **AllAreaCodes.com:** Offers a comprehensive database of area codes.
* **WhitePages.com:** Provides reverse phone lookup and area code search features.

When using these tools, make sure the information is up-to-date, as area codes can occasionally change.
* **Consider the time zone:** Knowing the time zone of the person you are calling may help narrow down the area code if you know what part of the US they are located in. For example, if they are in California, you would know the area code is on the west coast of the US.

**Step 4: Dial the Local Phone Number**

Finally, dial the seven-digit local phone number of the person or business you’re trying to reach. This completes the phone number.

**Putting it all together, the complete dialing sequence will look like this:**

**00 + 1 + Area Code + Local Phone Number**

**Example:**

Let’s say you want to call a friend in New York City. The area code for New York City is 212, and your friend’s local phone number is 555-1234. You would dial:

**00 1 212 555 1234**

Important Considerations: Time Zones and Cost

Before making your call, it’s crucial to consider the time difference between the Netherlands and the United States. The United States spans multiple time zones, so the time difference will vary depending on which part of the US you’re calling. The Netherlands operates on Central European Time (CET) during standard time and Central European Summer Time (CEST) during daylight saving time.

Here’s a general overview of the time differences:

* **Eastern Time (ET):** Eastern Time is 6 hours behind CET (or CEST during summer). So, if it’s 6 PM in the Netherlands, it’s noon in New York City.
* **Central Time (CT):** Central Time is 7 hours behind CET (or CEST during summer). So, if it’s 6 PM in the Netherlands, it’s 11 AM in Chicago.
* **Mountain Time (MT):** Mountain Time is 8 hours behind CET (or CEST during summer). So, if it’s 6 PM in the Netherlands, it’s 10 AM in Denver.
* **Pacific Time (PT):** Pacific Time is 9 hours behind CET (or CEST during summer). So, if it’s 6 PM in the Netherlands, it’s 9 AM in Los Angeles.

**Tips for Calculating Time Differences:**

* Use an online time zone converter: Many websites and apps can quickly convert times between different time zones. Simply search for “time zone converter” on Google.
* Consider daylight saving time: Remember that both the Netherlands and the United States observe daylight saving time, but the dates on which they switch can differ. Always double-check the current time difference, especially during the transition periods.

**Calling Costs:**

International calls can be expensive, especially if you’re calling from a landline or using a mobile phone plan without international calling options. The cost per minute can vary significantly depending on your provider and the specific plan you have. Before making a call, it’s essential to understand the potential costs and explore alternative options to save money.

Cost-Effective Alternatives for Calling the United States

Fortunately, there are numerous cost-effective alternatives to traditional international calling methods. These options leverage the power of the internet to provide cheaper or even free ways to connect with people in the United States.

**1. VoIP Services (Voice over Internet Protocol):**

VoIP services use the internet to transmit voice calls, bypassing traditional phone lines and significantly reducing costs. Some popular VoIP services include:

* **Skype:** Skype is one of the most well-known VoIP services, offering both free and paid options. You can make free calls to other Skype users, and calls to landlines and mobile phones in the United States are typically much cheaper than traditional international calls. Skype also offers features like video calling, instant messaging, and screen sharing.
* **WhatsApp:** WhatsApp is primarily a messaging app, but it also allows you to make voice and video calls to other WhatsApp users for free, regardless of their location. WhatsApp uses your phone’s internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data) to make calls, so you won’t incur traditional calling charges.
* **Viber:** Viber is another popular messaging and calling app that offers free calls and messages to other Viber users. It also provides Viber Out, a paid service that allows you to call landlines and mobile phones at competitive rates.
* **Google Voice:** Google Voice is a free service (in the US; international calling rates apply when calling from outside the US) that provides a phone number that you can use to make and receive calls over the internet. It also offers features like voicemail transcription and call forwarding. When calling the US *from* the Netherlands, you would use the Google Voice app and pay Google Voice’s international calling rates, which are typically lower than traditional phone companies.
* **Other VoIP providers:** Many other VoIP providers offer competitive international calling rates. Some options include Vonage, MagicJack, and Ooma. Research different providers and compare their pricing and features to find the best fit for your needs.

**Pros of VoIP Services:**

* **Lower costs:** VoIP calls are typically much cheaper than traditional international calls.
* **Free calls to other users:** Many VoIP services offer free calls to other users of the same service.
* **Additional features:** VoIP services often include features like video calling, instant messaging, and voicemail.
* **Flexibility:** You can use VoIP services on your computer, smartphone, or tablet.

**Cons of VoIP Services:**

* **Requires internet connection:** You need a stable internet connection to make VoIP calls.
* **Call quality can vary:** Call quality can be affected by the quality of your internet connection.
* **May require a paid subscription:** Some VoIP services require a paid subscription for certain features or to call landlines and mobile phones.

**2. Mobile Apps with International Calling Features:**

Many mobile apps offer international calling features at competitive rates. These apps often use VoIP technology to reduce costs.

* **Rebtel:** Rebtel is a mobile app specifically designed for international calling. It offers a variety of calling plans and options, including local numbers and calling cards. Rebtel often provides lower rates than traditional mobile phone carriers.
* **Talk360:** Talk360 is another mobile app that focuses on international calling. It offers competitive rates and allows you to call landlines and mobile phones worldwide.
* **Localphone:** Localphone provides international calling services through its mobile app and website. It offers a variety of calling plans and options, including pay-as-you-go rates and monthly subscriptions.

**Pros of Mobile Apps with International Calling Features:**

* **Convenience:** You can make international calls directly from your smartphone.
* **Competitive rates:** These apps often offer lower rates than traditional mobile phone carriers.
* **Variety of options:** Many apps offer a variety of calling plans and options to suit your needs.

**Cons of Mobile Apps with International Calling Features:**

* **Requires internet connection:** You typically need an internet connection to use these apps.
* **Call quality can vary:** Call quality can be affected by the quality of your internet connection.
* **May require a paid subscription or credit:** Some apps require a paid subscription or credit to make international calls.

**3. International Calling Cards:**

International calling cards are prepaid cards that allow you to make international calls at a discounted rate. You purchase a card with a specific amount of credit and then use it to make calls by dialing a toll-free access number and entering a PIN.

**Pros of International Calling Cards:**

* **Cost-effective:** Calling cards can be cheaper than traditional international calls.
* **No internet connection required:** You can use calling cards from any phone, even without an internet connection.
* **Easy to use:** Calling cards are generally easy to use.

**Cons of International Calling Cards:**

* **Can be confusing:** Some calling cards have complex terms and conditions.
* **Connection fees and surcharges:** Be aware of potential connection fees and surcharges that can eat into your credit.
* **Limited validity:** Calling cards typically have a limited validity period.

**4. Using a Travel SIM Card:**

If you frequently travel between the Netherlands and the United States, consider using a travel SIM card. These SIM cards offer lower international calling rates and data roaming charges compared to your regular SIM card.

**Pros of Using a Travel SIM Card:**

* **Lower international calling rates:** Travel SIM cards typically offer lower international calling rates.
* **Reduced data roaming charges:** Travel SIM cards can help you avoid expensive data roaming charges.
* **Convenience:** You can use a travel SIM card in your existing smartphone.

**Cons of Using a Travel SIM Card:**

* **Requires a SIM-unlocked phone:** Your phone must be SIM-unlocked to use a travel SIM card.
* **May require a separate phone number:** You may need to use a different phone number with a travel SIM card.
* **Limited validity:** Travel SIM cards may have a limited validity period.

## Tips for Ensuring a Smooth International Call

* **Check the Time Zone:** Always double-check the time zone in the United States before making your call to avoid calling at an inconvenient hour.
* **Have the Correct Phone Number:** Verify that you have the correct phone number, including the area code, before dialing.
* **Speak Clearly:** Speak clearly and slowly, especially if you’re calling someone who may have difficulty understanding your accent.
* **Be Patient:** International calls can sometimes experience delays or connection issues. Be patient and try again if necessary.
* **Consider Call Quality:** If you’re using VoIP or a mobile app, call quality can be affected by your internet connection. Try to find a location with a strong and stable internet connection.
* **Be Mindful of Background Noise:** Reduce background noise as much as possible to ensure clear communication.
* **Use Headphones or a Headset:** Using headphones or a headset can improve call quality and reduce background noise.
* **Test Your Connection:** Before making an important call, test your connection by calling a friend or family member.

## Troubleshooting Common Calling Issues

Even with the best preparation, you might encounter issues when calling the United States from the Netherlands. Here’s a guide to troubleshooting some common problems:

* **Incorrect Dialing Sequence:** Double-check that you’re using the correct dialing sequence: 00 + 1 + Area Code + Local Phone Number. A simple mistake in the sequence can prevent the call from going through.
* **Invalid Area Code:** Ensure that the area code you’re using is valid and active. Area codes can change, so it’s always best to verify the area code before making the call. You can use an online area code lookup tool to confirm the correct area code.
* **Poor Connection Quality:** If you’re experiencing poor connection quality, try the following:
* **Check your internet connection:** If you’re using VoIP or a mobile app, ensure that you have a stable internet connection. Try restarting your router or connecting to a different Wi-Fi network.
* **Move to a location with better signal:** If you’re using a mobile phone, try moving to a location with better signal strength.
* **Close other apps:** Close any other apps that may be using your internet connection.
* **Call Not Going Through:** If your call is not going through, it could be due to several reasons:
* **Blocked number:** The person you’re calling may have blocked your number.
* **Phone line is busy:** The phone line you’re calling may be busy.
* **Technical issues:** There may be technical issues with the phone network. Try again later.
* **Unexpected Charges:** If you’re receiving unexpected charges, contact your phone provider or VoIP service provider to inquire about the charges. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your calling plan or service.

## Conclusion

Calling the United States from the Netherlands doesn’t have to be a complicated or expensive endeavor. By understanding the dialing codes, considering the time difference, and exploring cost-effective alternatives, you can easily connect with friends, family, and colleagues in the US. Whether you choose to use traditional international calling, VoIP services, mobile apps, or calling cards, remember to plan ahead and choose the option that best suits your needs and budget. With the right preparation, you can enjoy clear and affordable communication with the United States.