Published : October 25, 2023Having a memorable and unique phone number can have a big impact on your business in a world where communication is paramount.
But have you ever wondered how your phone number could be more memorable and stand out in the market?
A custom phone number, also known as a vanity phone number, lets you ditch the random digits and create a number that reflects your brand or is simply easier to remember.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the various types of custom phone numbers, top providers, and tips for choosing the best option for your needs.
"When choosing a custom phone number provider, carefully evaluate your business's unique communication needs, the level of customization required, and the pricing structure. Ensure the provider offers features that align with your brand and supports your growth. Remember that seamless integration with your existing systems can significantly improve efficiency and productivity in your business operations."
Types of Custom Phone Numbers
A custom telephone number is available through many VoIP service providers, such as CallHippo.
Making a decision about the kind of custom phone number you want is the first step you should take before buying one. When choosing a company number, you should think about what both you and your clients require.
Custom phone numbers can be categorized into two main types: toll-free and local phone numbers.
| Two Types of Custom Phone Numbers | |
Custom Toll-Free Numbers 800: Original and most recognized toll-free prefix Example: (1-800-555-1234) | Custom Local Phone Numbers 212: New York City Example: (212-555-1234) |
1. Custom Toll Free Numbers
Custom toll-free numbers allow customers to call your business without incurring any charges, making it an attractive option for customer service lines. You can choose phone numbers between the following prefixes:
- 800
- 888
- 877
- 866
- 855
- 844
- 833
2. Custom Local Phone Numbers
Custom local phone numbers are designed to help businesses establish a presence in specific regions by using area codes familiar to local customers.
- Calls to local numbers are typically free or cheaper for nearby customers.
- Businesses can choose area codes from specific regions, even if they don’t physically operate there.
- In many countries, a local vanity phone number is a more affordable option than 800 numbers.
Custom local phone numbers typically follow a consistent format across different regions. Here’s the general structure:
(XXX) XXX-XXXX
- XXX: Area code representing a specific geographic region.
- XXX: Central office code, part of the local exchange.
- XXXX: Subscriber number, unique to the individual or business.
Let’s say we consider it for New York City (212):
Get Custom Phone Numbers From Top 13 Providers
Selecting the right customer phone number provider is crucial. To answer the most common query of how to get a custom phone number for business, below, we have provided the list of the 13 best custom phone number providers.
| Company | Rating | Plan | Top Features | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Starter: $18/month Professional: $30 /month Ultimate: $42 /month |
| Learn More | |
 | True Solo: $14 Solo Plus: $25 Small Business: $55 |
| Learn More | |
 | Core: $20 Advance: $25 Ultra: $35 |
| Learn More | |
 | Starter: $10 Standard: $20 Premier: $30 |
| Learn More | |
 | Mobile:$14.99 Premium: $24.99 Advanced:$34.99 |
| Learn More | |
 | Essentials: $18.95 Professional: $22.95 Enterprise:: $32.95 |
| Learn More |
1. CallHippo
CallHippo is an advanced and user-friendly cloud-based phone system designed to cater to businesses of all sizes. It offers a variety of communication features, including custom phone numbers, call forwarding, and an interactive voice response (IVR) system. Businesses can make calls to any part of the world using CallHippo’s virtual phone system.
Key Features
- Call queuing software
- Automatic call distribution
- Call hold audio
- Call center analytics
- Number masking
- Predictive dialer
- Call screening
Pros
- The platform allows you to send pre-recorded messages to a large number of contacts simultaneously.
- It offers a sticky agent feature, which ensures that customers are automatically connected to the same agent for follow-up calls.
- It enables businesses to connect seamlessly with international customers.
Cons
- Users have experienced frustration with customer support, citing long wait times and a lack of knowledgeable assistance.
- The free plan offered by the platform has restricted features compared to paid plans.
Pricing
- Basic: $0
- Bronze: $18 /month
- Silver: $30 /month
- Platinum: $42 /month
*Pricing as of 18-10-2024.
See what users say about CallHippo:
The network quality was seamlessly performed, and not network dis-connectivity was performed, hence experiencing a continued service without voice break.
-Thirupathi Raj K. (4.5/5)
(Source)
Overall, I am quite satisfied with CallHippo. It has provided the functionality we needed, and it was easy to set up and train staff on.
– Holly K. (5/5)
(Source)
2. Grasshopper
Grasshopper is a virtual phone system tailored to entrepreneurs and small businesses. It offers customizable phone numbers, call forwarding, voicemail, and text messaging services. With its robust features, Grasshopper offers seamless calling experiences for growing businesses.
Key Features
- Call forwarding and routing
- Voicemail and transcription
- Custom local or toll-free numbers
- Text messaging capabilities
- Mobile app for on-the-go access
Pros
- The platform allows users to make unlimited calls within the U.S. and Canada.
- It allows customers to create personalized greetings for their business phone lines.
- The tool allows businesses to easily add or remove local, toll-free, or vanity numbers without changing the base subscription.
Cons
- The platform offers minimal automation capabilities, such as no automatic text message forwarding.
- Voicemail messages are only stored for 30 days, which can lead to the loss of important communication.
Pricing
- True Solo: $14/mo
- Solo plus: $25/mo
- Small Business: $55/mo
*Pricing as of 18-10-2024.
3. RingCentral
RingCentral is a comprehensive cloud communications platform offering an array of services, including custom phone numbers. This platform is a one-stop solution for voice, video, and messaging needs, along with customizable phone numbers.
Key Features
- Custom phone numbers with keyword choices
- Video and audio conferencing
- Team messaging
- Integrations with popular business apps
- Mobile and desktop apps
Pros
- The platform allows users to set up engaging webinars quickly and easily.
- The tool enables businesses with multiple locations to manage their communications from a single portal.
- Users can seamlessly switch between devices during calls without interruption.
Cons
- RingCentral’s plans tend to be more expensive compared to other VoIP providers.
- Users have reported challenges when attempting to port numbers out of the platform.
Pricing
- Core: $20/mo
- Advanced: $25/mo
- Ultra: $35/mo
*Pricing as of 18-10-2024.
4. Google Voice
Google Voice is a cloud-based phone service that provides custom local and toll-free numbers for individuals and businesses. It offers call forwarding, voicemail transcription, and integration with Google Workspace. Users can make and receive calls from any device, making it a flexible and cost-effective communication solution.
Key Features
- Free calling and texting
- Spam protection
- Custom voicemail greetings
- Multiple device support
- International calling
- Conference calling
Pros
- The platform allows users to switch between different phone numbers during a call.
- It seamlessly integrates with other Google applications like Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Meet.
- Users can make free calls and send unlimited texts to any U.S. number.
Cons
- Users frequently report issues with call quality, including dropped calls, muffled audio, and choppy connections.
- Text messages sent through Google Voice can sometimes be delayed.
Pricing
- Business Starter: $1.63/mo
- Business Standard: $8.76/mo
- Business Plus: $16.43/mo
*Pricing as of 18-10-2024.
5. Phone.com
Phone.com is a virtual phone system primarily designed for small and medium-sized businesses. It offers customizable phone numbers, call routing, and voicemail transcription. This is one of the most preferred phone systems for getting custom phone numbers for their businesses.
Key Features
- Customizable local or toll-free numbers
- Call routing and forwarding
- Auto-attendant with IVR
- CRM integrations
- Mobile and desktop apps
Pros
- The platform allows users to create personalized audio greetings and menus.
- The platform offers HD (High Definition) voice capabilities, resulting in clearer and more enjoyable phone conversations.
- Users can set advanced call handling rules, such as forwarding based on caller ID or time of day.
Cons
- Users have expressed dissatisfaction with response times and the availability of knowledgeable assistance.
- The initial setup can be complicated for some users, especially those unfamiliar with VoIP systems.
Pricing
- Pro users: $27/mo
- Plus users: $18/mo
- Basic users: $12/mo
*Pricing as of 18-10-2024.
6. MightyCall
MightyCall is a leading cloud-based virtual phone system in the market, primarily designed for small businesses and entrepreneurs. It offers custom phone numbers, call tracking, call routing, voicemail, and other collaboration functionalities. MightyCall is an ideal choice for startups and small businesses.
Key Features
- Local and toll-free numbers
- Vanity numbers
- Caller ID
- Number porting
- Webphone
- Call waiting
Pros
- The platform allows businesses to create unlimited extensions.
- The platform includes an auto dialer feature that helps sales and support teams manage high call volumes efficiently.
- It provides both live and historical analytics to track key performance indicators.
Cons
- The mobile app for both Android and iOS has been described as unreliable, with reports of slow performance.
- Users frequently report issues with call quality, including dropped calls and muffled audio.
Pricing
- Core: $15/mo
- Pro: $23/mo
- Power: $30
- Enterprise: $50
*Pricing as of 18-10-2024.
7. eVoice
eVoice is a virtual phone service designed for small businesses and entrepreneurs. It offers custom local and toll-free numbers, call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, and professional greetings. With eVoice, businesses can manage calls from anywhere, ensuring seamless communication and improving customer experience without the need for traditional phone lines.
Key Features
- Unlimited domestic calling
- Toll-free and local numbers
- Auto attendant
- Voicemail to email
- Conference calling
- Call blocking
Pros
- The platform provides unlimited calls within the U.S. and Canada.
- The service is entirely virtual, meaning users can operate without any additional hardware.
- It allows users to receive voicemails via email, ensuring that important messages are easily accessible.
Cons
- Users frequently report long wait times and difficulty reaching knowledgeable support representatives.
- The platform’s mobile app has been criticized for crashing frequently and experiencing performance problems.
Pricing
Price starts at $14/mo which includes 3 phone numbers.
*Pricing as of 18-10-2024.
8. FreedomVoice
FreedomVoice is a cloud-based phone service offering custom local and toll-free numbers for small businesses. It provides features like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, and auto-attendant. Designed for flexibility, FreedomVoice enables businesses to manage calls from any device, enhancing professionalism and ensuring smooth communication with customers.
Key Features
- Port In numbers
- Online faxing
- Toll Free phone numbers directory listing*
- Unlimited line capacity
- Call hunting
Pros
- The platform allows its users to create unlimited voicemail boxes.
- Users can block numbers, put callers on hold with music, or transfer calls seamlessly.
- The tool’s mobile app allows users to manage calls, voicemails, and faxes from their smartphones.
Cons
- Some users experience inconsistent call quality, including dropped calls and poor audio clarity.
- While the base plans may be affordable, many essential features require additional fees.
Pricing
- Start: $9.95/mo
- Edge: $19.95/mo
- Max: $29.295/mo
*Pricing as of 18-10-2024.
9. CallRail
CallRail is a call tracking and analytics platform that provides businesses with custom phone numbers. It offers features like call recording, tracking, and reporting, helping companies optimize their marketing campaigns and improve customer engagement through detailed call insights.
Key Features
- Call tracking
- Call analytics
- Keyword-level call attribution
- Conversational intelligence
- Form tracking
Pros
- The platform allows users to track which specific keywords or search terms led to phone calls.
- Users can automatically track which specific keywords or search terms led to phone calls.
- The platform allows users to generate detailed reports on call performance.
Cons
- Businesses with a high call volume find the pricing of the platform a little higher.
- Users have encountered difficulties when integrating CallRail with other platforms like ZOHO and Google Ads.
Pricing
- Call Tracking: $ 45/mo
- Call Tracking + Conversation Intelligence: $ 90/mo
- Call Tracking + Form Tracking: $ 90/mo
- Call Tracking Complete: $ 135/mo
*Pricing as of 18-10-2024.
10. Sideline
Sideline is a mobile app that provides a second phone number for your personal device, ideal for small businesses and entrepreneurs. It offers features like call forwarding, texting, and voicemail, enabling easy separation of work and personal communication.
Key Features
- Number porting
- Group messaging
- Separate caller ID
- Voicemail to text
- Custom voicemail
Pros
- The platform connects calls through your existing carrier network.
- It allows users to record personalized voicemail greetings, helping maintain a professional image.
- The app includes an auto-reply function for missed calls and texts.
Cons
- The platform primarily focuses on U.S. and Canadian numbers, lacking support for international calling.
- Since Sideline relies on existing cellular networks, call quality may vary based on the user’s mobile service provider and location.
Pricing
Plans start at $14.49/mo.
*Pricing as of 18-10-2024.
11. Twilio
Twilio is a cloud communication platform that offers custom phone numbers and APIs for businesses to integrate voice, messaging, and video into their apps. It provides scalable communication solutions, including call routing, SMS, and global phone number availability.
Key Features
- Programmable messaging
- Video API
- Email API (SendGrid)
- Live streaming API
Pros
- With Twilio Studio and Twilio Flex, users can create highly customized workflows and contact center solutions.
- The platform integrates seamlessly with various third-party applications and services.
- The platform makes it easy for developers to implement and troubleshoot solutions.
Cons
- The platform’s extensive features and APIs can be overwhelming for users without technical expertise.
- It offers a pay-as-you-go pricing model, costs can escalate quickly with high traffic volumes.
Pricing
Contact the sales team for the pricing details.
12. Vonage
Vonage is a cloud-based communication service offering custom phone numbers, VoIP solutions, and unified communication tools for businesses of all sizes. It provides features like call forwarding, virtual receptionist, SMS, and video conferencing, enabling seamless and scalable communication across multiple devices.
Key Features
- Unlimited calling
- Business SMS and MMS
- Auto attendant
- Unified communications
- Dynamic call routing
Pros
- The platform offers unlimited calling to the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico, as well as international calling to over 60 countries.
- New customers can try the service risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- The tool allows users to easily block unwanted calls and filter spam.
Cons
- Users with lack of unfamiliarity with VoIP technology find the initial setup and configuration complicated.
- Despite generally high-quality service, some users experience occasional call drops or audio quality problems.
Pricing
Contact the sales team for pricing details.
13. Nextiva
Nextiva is a cloud-based business communication and collaboration software that provides business phone numbers to call, text, and manage contacts easily. Nextiva app is accessible on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices. Provides unlimited voice calling (US and Canada) so, that one can communicate with their business partners.
Key Features
- Call recording & rating
- Call forwarding
- Three-way calling
- Call queuing
- Anonymous call rejection
Pros
- Users can receive transcribed voicemails via email or SMS.
- The platform integrates seamlessly with popular CRM systems like Salesforce and HubSpot.
- New customers can try the service risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Cons
- The platform does not offer a free trial period, which can make it challenging for potential customers.
- Some users have experienced challenges when porting existing numbers to Nextiva.
Pricing
- Digital: $20/mo
- Core: $30/mo
- Engage: $40/mo
- Power Suite: $60/mo
*Pricing as of 18-10-2024.
What Are the Best Ways to Search for Custom Phone Numbers?
Finding the right custom phone number can be a challenging task, especially since many companies have their own inventory tools. Searching for a custom phone number involves several strategies.
1. Start with Major Providers: Focus on companies with extensive inventories, like AVOXI, which offers numbers in over 160 countries.
2. Explore Inventory Leaders: Check regional providers with large inventories:
- U.S. & Canada: Phone.com, Kall8, VirtualPhone.com
- U.K: Telecoms World, Virtual Landline
- Australia: Optus, Alltel, eVoice
- International: Sonetel, M800, TollFreeForwarding.com, GlobalCallForwarding.com
3. Utilize Search Tools: Use the number of search tools provided by these companies to filter options based on area code and type (toll-free or local).
4. Consider Vanity Numbers: Look for memorable vanity phone numbers through dedicated sections on provider websites.
Tests have been conducted to find that ads with vanity numbers outperform those with generic numbers by 33%. (Source)
How to Choose the Right Custom Phone Number Provider?
Selecting the right custom or vanity phone number provider is crucial for ensuring effective communication and improving your business’s professional image. Here are key factors to consider when making your choice:
1. Assess Your Business Needs
Start by identifying your specific requirements. Consider whether you need local or toll-free vanity numbers.
Also, determine how many lines you require and if you need features like call forwarding, voicemail, and automated attendants.
2. Evaluate Features Offered
Different providers offer varying features. Look for essential functionalities such as:
- Call Forwarding
- Voicemail Services
- Auto-Attendant
- SMS Capabilities
3. Consider Pricing and Plans
Analyze the pricing structures of potential providers. Look for:
- Initial setup costs
- Monthly fees
- Additional features
- Contract terms
4. Check Availability of Numbers
Confirm that the provider can offer the specific type of custom phone number you need in your desired area or region.
For businesses looking for vanity numbers, check if they can create a memorable number that reflects your brand.
5. Examine Customer Support
Reliable customer support is essential. Research the provider’s support options, such as:
- 24/7 Availability
- Multiple Contact Methods.
- Read customer testimonials.
6. Consider Geographic Reach
If you have a global or national presence, choose a provider that offers numbers across multiple regions or countries. This ensures you can maintain a local presence wherever you operate.
Conclusion
When selecting a custom phone number provider, consider your business’s unique needs, the scale of your operations, and your budget constraints.
Each of these providers has distinct strengths and limitations, so a thorough evaluation will help you choose the one that aligns best with your communication requirements.
Custom phone numbers can be a potent branding tool when combined with the right service provider.
FAQs
1. Are custom phone numbers only for large businesses?
No, custom phone numbers are suitable for businesses of all sizes, including small startups.
2. How much does it cost to get a custom phone number?
Costs vary by provider and features, but many offer plans starting from as low as $10 per month.
3. Can I change my custom phone number in the future?
Yes, most providers allow you to change your custom phone number at any time.
4. Can I transfer my existing business phone number to a custom number?
Yes, many providers offer number porting services, allowing you to transfer your existing business phone system.
Updated : December 12, 2024
Supriya Bajaj is a senior content developer with immense experience in the VoIP telephony domain. With a deep knowledge of VoIP systems and emerging technologies in the field, she provides insightful and targeted content. Known for simplifying complex topics and her thought-leadership articles, Supriya delivers actionable content for both technical and non-technical audiences.
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