Local and toll-free numbers | DialLink Help Center

When choosing a phone number for your business, it’s important to understand the differences between the available options. Each type has its own advantages and limitations. Knowing which one best fits your needs will help you make an informed decision for your company.

What are local numbers?

A local number is tied to a specific geographic location, identified by its area code. For example, if your business is in New York City, a local number might have a 212 or 646 code. Local numbers are familiar and can help you connect with customers in a specific region.

Pros	Cons
Localized brand Helps your business appear rooted in a particular community. Customer trust Customers may feel more comfortable calling a number they recognize as local. Affordable calls Calling local numbers usually means little or no charges for customers. Recognized number Familiar area codes resonate with nearby customers.	Limited area May discourage calls from customers outside the local area. Inappropriate for global business Can give the impression of a small, region-specific presence while your business serves a wider audience.

What are toll-free numbers?

Toll-free numbers do not refer to a specific geographic location. Instead, they use special area codes like 800, 888, or 877. Callers don't pay charges for using them as the business covers the cost of the call. Toll-free numbers are often associated with larger businesses.

Pros	Cons
Worldwide presence Makes your business appear larger and capable of serving customers worldwide. Free for callers Removes cost barriers for customers, encouraging more inbound calls. Professional image Creates a polished, expert business image.	Less personal Can feel impersonal, which may not resonate with local customers. Higher costs You’ll need to pay for the incoming calls. Distancing Customers may think your business is too far away or disconnected from their community.

How to choose the proper option for your business

To choose between local and toll-free numbers, consider the following:

Where the target audience is
If you primarily work with a local community, a local number may be more suitable. For broader reach, a toll-free number could be the better choice.
How you build your brand
Do you want to emphasize a personal, community-focused image or a large, professional presence?
Evaluate costs
Assess your budget for phone services and determine if covering toll-free numbers aligns with planned costs.
Use both
Many businesses choose to have both local and toll-free numbers to serve different customer needs.

Evaluate these factors and find the best phone number strategy to support your growth and customer engagement goals.

What are international numbers?

An international phone number is a phone number outside the Unites States and Canada. It includes the country code and allows customers in that country to call your business as if it were local. For example, if your company is based in the United States but serves customers in the United Kingdom, you can have a UK number with the +44 country code.

Pros	Cons
Global presence Allows your business to appear local in multiple countries. Customer convenience Customers can call a familiar country code instead of dialing internationally. Market expansion Supports entering new regions without setting up a physical branch. Improved trust abroad Local country numbers build credibility with international customers.	Regulatory requirements Many countries require business registration documents or identity verification. Higher setup complexity Registration and approval processes vary by country. Potential additional costs International numbers may have higher monthly fees or usage charges. Ongoing compliance obligations Some countries require documentation updates or regulatory renewals.