THE NUMBER GUIDE
Understand the category. Confirm the service.
These ranges are associated with UK geographic areas. They can help present a local business presence, but the number alone does not establish where a caller, device or business is physically located. Confirm service requirements, routing and current charges with the provider.
A UK-wide number can suit an organisation that does not want its main contact identity tied to one area. Choose a suitable subrange with the provider and check the applicable service terms. Do not infer availability from a pattern or prefix.
Freephone numbers are a distinct category. Review how incoming calls are delivered and what the business pays for its chosen service. Check the provider’s terms for your intended callers, traffic and use.
Ask the receiving provider about portability and the evidence it needs. Check the account holder, number range, linked services, dependencies and transfer date. Do not cancel the old service before transfer arrangements are agreed.
Ofcom publishes number allocation data for communications providers. It describes allocation, not a retail offer for every number in a block. Historical assignment data does not establish present ownership, service status or the right to sell or use a number.
Ofcom numbering data ↗Use the provider catalogue to explore current number choices. Confirm availability, the full price, contract, routing and any transfer requirements before committing.
Explore Switch Numbers ↗