Published : April 1, 2025Calling the US from China may feel overwhelming, with exit codes, area codes, and time zones to navigate. The good news? It’s simpler than you think.
In this blog, you’ll learn how to dial international calls to the USA easily, avoid billing surprises, and pick tools for high-quality calls. Whether reaching family or closing deals, we’ll help you master the process.
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The steps below tell in brief how to call US from China:
- Start with China's exit code: Dial 00 (or press and hold + on mobile devices).
- Add the US country code: Enter 1 to route the call to the United States.
- Include the area code: Input the three-digit code for the US region
- (e.g., 212 for New York)
- Finish with the local number: Dial the remaining 7-digit phone number.
- For Example: To call the US number (212) 555-1234 from China:
- On Landline: Dial 00-1-212-555-1234
- On Mobile: Dial +1-212-555-1234
Steps to Dial The United States from China
If you’re wondering how to call US from China, it follows a structured process. By entering specific codes correctly, you can ensure your international call reaches its destination. Here’s a breakdown of the steps to follow.
Step 1: Dial The International Exit Code
The first step to making an international call is to input the relevant country’s exit code. The exit code for China is “011.” You can replace the “011” with the + symbol on most mobile devices.
Step 2: Input the US Country Code
Your next step is to input the United States country code. The country code for the US is 1.
Step 3: Add the Area Code
After entering the exit and country codes, you’ll need to add the area code for the area of the United States where you’d like to call.
Step 4: Complete with the Local Phone Number
The last step will be to dial the recipient’s local number.
Note: A standard US phone number is typically 10 digits long and consists of a three-digit area code. The full number is the area code, followed by a seven-digit local phone number.
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How To Call A Mobile Number In The US From China?
Reaching a mobile device in the US from China skips some steps compared to landlines. Start by dialing the exit code followed by the country identifier. Mobile numbers do not require regional codes, so proceed directly to the full phone number after the country code. Confirm the number’s accuracy beforehand, as mistakes can lead to failed connections
Format for Calling the US from China:
To save on calling costs, consider using applications like WhatsApp, WeChat, and more to call internationally. These tools allow communication abroad without traditional calling fees, provided both parties have the same app installed. You can also use a VoIP service to set up a virtual China number in minutes and start communicating easily.
Popular US Area Codes to Keep in Mind
There are over 335 area codes across the United States, each identified with various locations around the country. The following are the top area codes in the US:
| City / Region | Area Code |
|---|---|
| California | (1)707 |
| Colorado | (1)720 |
| Illinois | (1)773 |
| Kansas | (1)620 |
| Maine | (1)207 |
| Michigan | (1)947 |
| Ohio | (1)234 |
| Pennsylvania | (1)717 |
| Texas | (1)361 |
Best Time to Call the United States from China
Timing matters when calling the US from China due to significant time differences. China follows CST (UTC+8), while the US spans multiple zones. For example, Beijing is 12–15 hours ahead of New York (EST) and 15–18 hours ahead of Los Angeles (PST).
Aim for mornings in China (8:00–11:00 AM CST), which align with late afternoons or evenings in the US.
Avoid calling between 9:00 PM CST and 6:00 AM CST, as most US recipients will be asleep. Use time difference tools like World Clock to schedule calls during overlapping hours. Weekdays are ideal for business calls, while weekends suit personal conversations. Confirm the recipient’s local time to ensure seamless connections.
Alternative Ways to Call the US from China
If you’re wondering how to call US from China to save money without complications, below are some alternate options:
| Method | Cost | Internet Required | Ideal For | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VoIP Services like CallHippo | Low-cost, affordable rates | Yes | Businesses, frequent callers | Lower rates, US virtual number, CRM integration, easy to use on phone/computer. |
| Messaging Apps | Free (if both use the same app) | Yes | Personal calls, family, friends | Free voice/video calls over Wi-Fi; requires VPN for WhatsApp in China. |
| Prepaid Calling Cards | Prepaid, discounted rates | No | Occasional callers, no internet access | No internet needed; compare rates online (e.g., CallingCards.com), cost-effective. |
| Carrier Plans | Varies (check international bundles) | No | Frequent travelers, reliable connectivity | Included international minutes (e.g., T-Mobile Magenta), no extra apps, check roaming policies. |
1. VoIP Services
Apps like Skype, CallHippo, or Zoom allow you to call US numbers affordably. CallHippo offers click-to-call tools and CRM integration for businesses. VoIP relies on internet data, avoiding carrier fees.
2. Messaging Apps
WeChat, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger allow free voice/video calls if both parties have the app. These work over Wi-Fi, which is ideal for casual chats. Note that WhatsApp is restricted in China, so use a VPN to access it.
3. Prepaid Calling Cards
Buy cards like Rebtel or LycaMobile for discounted US calls. Load credits online and dial via local access numbers. Compare rates on sites like CallingCards.com to maximize savings.
4. Carrier Plans
Chinese carriers like China Mobile China Mobile offer US-focused international bundles. In the US, T-Mobile’s Magenta plan includes free China calling. Check roaming policies and data limits to avoid surprises.
- Combine Wi-Fi apps with VPNs for unrestricted access. Always test free methods during off-peak hours for better connectivity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Calling the US from China
Calling the US from China seems straightforward, but small errors in the dialing format can lead to failed connections or high bills. Avoid these pitfalls for smooth, cost-effective calls.
1. Skipping Or Mixing Up Codes
Forgetting China’s exit code (00 or +) or the US country code (1) blocks the call. Example: Dial 00-1-XXX-XXX-XXXX, not just the US number. Mobile users often misuse the “+” symbol—replace it with 00 if issues arise. Double-check codes before dialing.
2. Ignoring Time Zones
China is 12–15 hours ahead of the US. Calling at 9 PM Beijing time means it’s 6 AM in New York. Use apps like World Clock to track overlaps. Avoid mornings in the US (late nights in China) unless urgent.
3. Overlooking Hidden Fees
Carriers often charge steep rates for international calls. A 10-minute chat could cost $20. Check your plan’s rates or use free apps like WhatsApp (with VPN) or Skype. Confirm if “unlimited” plans exclude the US.
4. Using Wrong Area Codes
US cities share area codes, like 212 for NYC and 310 for LA. Dialing 213 instead of 212 routes calls to Los Angeles, not Manhattan. Verify codes on sites like AreaCode.org or ask the recipient.
5. Assuming All Mobile Numbers Work
Some US numbers may be inactive, restricted, or VoIP-based. Use a VPN to bypass restrictions and ensure call quality. Test with a quick message first. Confirm if the recipient’s phone accepts international calls to avoid endless ringing.
6. Neglecting network compatibility
Chinese carriers like China Mobile block certain US numbers due to regional restrictions. Use a VPN or tools like CallHippo to bypass these blocks and ensure your phone isn’t locked to a carrier.
- Save correctly formatted numbers (e.g., +1-212-555-1234) in your contacts. This skips manual code entry and reduces errors. For frequent calls, invest in a VoIP service like CallHippo to simplify dialing and cut costs.
Conclusion
The answer to how to call from China to US is easy once you understand the basics: exit codes, country codes, and area codes. Following the four-step dialing process or using free apps like Skype and WhatsApp (with a VPN) should be a fairly simple process that won’t break the bank.
Double-check details and use tools like virtual numbers or VoIP services to avoid common pitfalls like timing mishaps or incorrect codes. Whether for personal chats or business deals with customers, this ensures you stay connected effortlessly.
FAQs
1. How Do I Call the United States From a Mobile Phone in China?
After connecting to the Wi-Fi network, you can use your existing mobile apps, such as WhatsApp, Skype, or a software like CalHippo. Note that you will need a VPN to use WhatsApp in China. If you make calls using an app, you’ll avoid being billed by your carrier.
2. What is the Country Code to Call the United States From China?
The United States country code is 1. From China, dial 00 (exit code) +1 (US code) + area code + local number. If you use your mobile phone, you can dial + instead of 00.
3. How do I call the United States from a mobile phone in China?
Dial +1, followed by the area code and local number. To make free calls and avoid being charged by your carrier, you can call a United States phone number using the WeChat or Zoom apps.
4. Can I call a US toll-free Number From China?
Yes, dial 00-1-800-XXX-XXXX using a China number. Ensure that your mobile plan includes an international calling service or that you have explicitly enabled international calling.
Updated : April 2, 2025
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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