What Phone Number Should You Choose: Local, National (085), or Business (088)?
Local, national, 085 or 088: choosing the right phone number is an important decision.
The phone number you select can influence how you are perceived by customers and partners.
On this page, we discuss the different types of phone numbers available: local numbers, national numbers such as 085, and business numbers such as 088. We will explore the advantages and disadvantages of each type and offer advice on how to obtain 088 numbers.
Pick a local number!
A local phone number is a number that is specifically tied to a certain region or city in the Netherlands. These numbers begin with the area code of the respective region (e.g., 020 for Amsterdam, 010 for Rotterdam, etc.). For businesses that operate locally, a local number can offer several benefits.
Firstly, a local phone number gives your business a local identity. Customers often feel more connected to businesses that are located in their own area. This can build trust and lead to better customer retention, especially if your business offers services or products targeted at the local community.
In addition, local numbers can help create the perception that your business is well-established in the region. This can be important for customers who value local knowledge and expertise.
How to get a local number
TeamStation allows customes to pick out a local number as part of the registration process. Random numbers cost a one time fee of 10 Euro, easy to remember numbers cost 20 Euros.
Already have a local number?
If you already have a local number, registered with a different provider, you can use portation to transfer your number to another provider. With TeamStation, this is again part of the registration process.
Pick a national 085 number!
National numbers, such as 085 numbers, are not tied to a specific region. This makes them appealing to businesses that want to project national coverage. An 085 number can give your business a more professional appearance, especially if you offer services or products throughout the country.
Additionally, an 085 number offers flexibility. Since it is not tied to a specific location, you can use it even if your business relocates. This is a significant advantage for companies that may expand or move in the future.
How to get a national 085 number
TeamStation allows customes to pick out a national 085 number in its webstore as part of the registration process. Random numbers cost a one time fee of 10 Euro, easy to remember numbers cost 20 Euros.
Already have a national 085 number?
If you already have a national 085 number, registered with a different provider, you can use portation to transfer your number to another provider. With TeamStation, this is again part of the registration process.
Pick a national 088 number!
088 numbers are business numbers specifically designed for companies with multiple locations. They are not tied to a specific location and can be used nationwide. This makes 088 numbers ideal for businesses with multiple locations or those wanting to project nationwide coverage.
An 088 number gives your business a professional and uniform appearance. Customers often associate 088 numbers with larger, more established companies, which can help enhance your business’s image.
Another major advantage is that you can request multiple 088 numbers that are related to each other, which is useful for companies with different departments or locations. This creates consistency in communication and makes it easier for customers to contact the correct department.
How to get a national 088 number
To obtain an 088 number, you must submit an application to the Authority for Consumers & Markets (ACM). These numbers are issued in blocks of at least 100 and at most 10,000 numbers. This means that as a company, you can reserve a range of numbers that you can assign to different departments or locations.
To apply for an 088 number, your company must meet certain criteria, such as having a minimum number of employees or a certain level of national coverage. The application process involves submitting an application form to the ACM, along with a description of how the numbers will be used. After your application is approved, you will receive a block of 088 numbers that you can use for your business communications.
Disadvantages of local numbers
While local numbers offer benefits, there are also drawbacks. For example, if your business plans to expand nationally, a local number can be limiting. Customers from other parts of the country may be hesitant to contact a business with a local number, thinking that it does not operate outside its region.
Furthermore, with the rise of mobile phones and VoIP services, the need for a local number is becoming less relevant. Customers are now accustomed to calling numbers from different regions without incurring additional charges.
Disadvantages of 085 numbers
One disadvantage of an 085 number is that it may come across as less personal than a local number. Customers who prefer to deal with local businesses may perceive it as impersonal.
Moreover, although 085 numbers are widely used, they are less recognizable than, for example, 088 numbers, which are often associated with larger, more established companies.
Disadvantages of 088 numbers
The cost of acquiring and managing an 088 number can be higher than that of local or national numbers. Furthermore, for smaller businesses, especially if they only have one location, using an 088 number may be unnecessary as it can come across as less personal.