Making international calls can feel complicated, especially calling the USA from the UK. You need to understand dialing codes. You also need to choose the right service. Avoiding high fees is important too. Knowing your options saves time, money, and stress. Whether you call family, friends, or business contacts, getting it right matters.

This guide helps you understand the different ways to call the USA from the UK. We will cover keeping costs low. We will also share tips for good call quality. By the end, you can make international calls easily and affordably. You might find this guide on international calling codes helpful as well: international calling codes.

The Basics: Understanding UK to USA Calling

Before you make a call, you need to know the correct dialing format. Every country has its own codes. You must dial these codes before the local phone number. This is how the international phone system works.

Decoding the Dialing Format

To call the USA from the UK, you need a specific sequence of numbers. This sequence tells the phone network where to route your call. It’s like an international address for the phone line you want to reach.

Here are the codes you need:

• Exit Code (00 or +): First, dial the UK exit code. This tells your phone network you are making an international call. The code is 00. If you use a mobile phone, you can often simply use the plus sign +. The plus sign works globally as an exit code.

• Country Code (1): Next, dial the country code for the USA. The USA shares country code 1 with Canada and some Caribbean nations. This code directs your call to the correct country.

• Area Code: The area code comes after the country code. USA area codes are usually three digits long. They identify a specific geographic region within the USA, like a city or state section. You need the correct area code for the specific US number you are calling.

• Phone Number: Finally, dial the local phone number. This is typically a seven-digit number. It connects your call to the specific phone line within the area code.

Step-by-Step Dialing Example

Let’s say you want to call a phone number in Los Angeles, California. The area code for that specific number is 310.

1. Start with the UK exit code: 00 (or + on mobile).

1. Add the USA country code: 1.

1. Dial the Los Angeles area code: 310.

1. Enter the local seven-digit phone number.

So, the full dialing format looks like this: 00 1 310 [local 7-digit number]. Using the plus sign on mobile would be

Exploring Your Options: Methods to Call the USA

You have several ways to call the USA from the UK. The best method for you depends on your needs. Consider what matters most: cost, convenience, or call quality.

Traditional Landline Calling

For many years, landlines were the main way to make international calls. They still offer a reliable connection. This is especially true in areas with poor mobile signal or internet. However, landline calls are often the most expensive option. International call charges can be very high.

How to Save Money with Landlines

You can sometimes lower the cost of landline international calls.

• Check Your Provider: Your UK landline provider might offer special international calling plans. These plans can reduce the per-minute cost to certain countries, like the USA. Ask your provider about their international rates and plans.

• Use International Calling Cards: These are pre-paid cards. You buy them with credit. You dial a local number provided by the card company, enter a PIN, then dial the international number (including 1 and the area code). Calling cards often offer much better rates than direct dialing from a standard landline.

Mobile Phone Calls

Most people use mobile phones for calls today. Many UK mobile plans include some international minutes. But charges can still be high if international calls are not in your plan. Check your contract details carefully.

Tips for Mobile Calls to the USA

You can make mobile calls to the USA more affordably.

• Check for International Plans: Many mobile networks offer bolt-ons or plans specifically for international calls. These reduce costs for frequent international callers. Look at your carrier’s website or app for these options.

• Leverage Wi-Fi Calling: Some modern mobile phones support Wi-Fi calling. This lets you make calls over an internet connection instead of using mobile data or the standard phone network. If your phone and carrier support it, calls to the USA over Wi-Fi may use your plan’s minutes or be free.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Services

Technology has created more affordable options. VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. These services let you make calls using the internet. They do not use traditional phone lines. VoIP is often the most cost-effective and flexible way to call the USA from the UK today.

VoIP calls can be made from various devices. You can use a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Yxibility.

Why VoIP is Often the Best Choice

VoIP offers significant advantages for calling the USA.

• Lower Costs: VoIP calls are typically much cheaper than landline or standard mobile international calls. Some services even offer free calls to certain destinations or other users of the same service.

• High Quality: With a fast and stable internet connection, VoIP calls can offer very clear sound quality. Sometimes it is even better than traditional calls.

• Flexibility: You can use VoIP services on many devices. You can call from your phone app, a desktop application, or even a dedicated VoIP desk phone.

Many popular apps use VoIP technology. Examples include Skype, WhatsApp, and Google Voice. These are good for personal calls. For businesses, more advanced VoIP solutions offer additional features.

Telfon: A Smart Solution for Calling the USA

If you need a reliable and feature-rich way to call the USA, especially for business, consider Telfon. Telfon is a comprehensive VoIP solution. It makes international calling easy and affordable. It works for both individuals and businesses of all sizes.

Key Benefits of Using Telfon for UK to USA Calls

Telfon offers specific advantages for calling the USA from the UK.

• Affordable Rates: Telfon provides competitive rates for international calling. This can lead to significant savings compared to traditional methods. Pay-as-you-go pricing is available, and users report saving up to 50% compared to other providers.

• Get a US Virtual Number: A key feature is the ability to purchase a virtual phone number in the USA. This US number can receive calls and SMS. For businesses in the UK calling the USA, having a local US number makes it easier for US contacts to call you back. It creates a local presence. This number can even be used for WhatsApp.

• Specific Use Cases: Telfon is designed for various users. It is useful for HR personnel hiring internationally. Sales executives needing to contact US leads find it valuable. Travel agencies and businesses interacting daily with US clients or partners also benefit.

• Feature-Rich Platform: Telfon includes features helpful for managing calls. These include call recordings, voicemail (including voicemail-to-text), call forwarding, and SMS sending/receiving. Business plans add user analytics, dashboards, user management, and integrations.

• Accessibility: Telfon is available on multiple platforms. You can use it via apps on Google Play (Android) and the App Store (iOS). There is also a Chrome Web Store extension for desktop use. This makes it accessible from almost anywhere.

With over 30,000 users globally and 600+ companies using the platform, Telfon is a proven solution. It provides necessary tools to connect with your US partners or customers efficiently.

Avoiding Pitfalls: Common Mistakes When Calling the USA

Making international calls is simpler now, but mistakes still happen. These can lead to higher costs or poor call quality. Avoid these common errors for a smoother experience.

Misunderstanding Time Zones

The USA is a large country. It has many time zones. From East to West, major zones are Eastern (ET), Central (CT), Mountain (MT), and Pacific (PT). Hawaii and Alaska have their own zones too. London (UK) is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) or British Summer Time (BST).

Here is a quick look at time differences:

Always check the time difference before calling. You don’t want to call too early or too late.

Ignoring International Call Rates

Do not assume your provider’s rates are low. Even with an international plan, rates can vary. They might depend on the time of day you call. Rates can also differ between calling a US mobile number or a US landline number. Always check the specific costs beforehand. Look at your provider’s website or the pricing section of your VoIP app.

Overlooking the Power of VoIP

Some people still rely only on traditional landlines or mobile plans. They might not know about VoIP services. VoIP services like Telfon offer a much more affordable and feature-rich way to call. If you call the USA often for work or personal reasons, VoIP can save you a lot of money. It provides features traditional calls lack.

Relying on a Weak Internet Connection

VoIP calls need a good internet connection. A slow or unstable connection causes problems. Calls might drop. The sound might be delayed or unclear. Always ensure you have strong Wi-Fi or a good mobile data signal for VoIP calls. If calling from a computer, using an Ethernet cable can provide a more stable connection than Wi-Fi.

Incorrectly Dialing Codes

Getting the dialing sequence wrong is a common mistake. You must dial the UK exit code (00 or +), followed by the USA country code (1), the US area code, and then the local number. Missing a code or dialing in the wrong order means your call will not connect correctly. Double-check the numbers before you dial.

Smart Strategies to Lower Your Calling Costs

Calling the USA does not have to be expensive. Use these tips to keep costs down and avoid unexpected charges.

Maximizing Wi-Fi Usage

Use Wi-Fi whenever possible for your calls. If you use a VoIP app or your mobile phone’s Wi-Fi calling feature, calling over Wi-Fi typically does not use your standard international minutes or credit. This helps you avoid high mobile network charges.

Exploring Provider Plans and Offers

Check your current UK phone provider’s website. Look for international bundles or special offers for calls to the USA. Sometimes, adding a small monthly fee can give you many included international minutes. This can be cheaper than paying per minute on a standard plan.

Utilizing VoIP Services for Regular Calls

If you call the USA frequently, VoIP is usually the most cost-effective method. Services like Telfon offer low per-minute rates or affordable plans for international calls. Consider getting a US virtual number through a service like Telfon. This can make communication easier and potentially reduce costs for those calling you back from the USA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Do I always need the UK exit code (00 or +)?

Yes, you need an exit code to dial out of the UK to another country. On a mobile, using + before the country code 1 is usually the easiest method. On a landline, you must dial 00.

Q2. What’s the cheapest way to call the USA from the UK?

Generally, using VoIP services is the cheapest method. Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or more dedicated services like Telfon offer low rates or even free calls between users of the same service. Compare the rates offered by different VoIP providers.

Q3. Can I use WhatsApp to call the USA?

Yes, if the person you are calling in the USA also has WhatsApp installed and an internet connection, you can make a free voice or video call using the app. These calls use your internet data, not your phone plan’s minutes.

Q4. How do US area codes work?

US area codes are geographic identifiers. They are typically three digits long. Every phone number in the USA is linked to a specific area code. You must include the correct area code when dialing a US number from outside the USA.

Q5. Is a US virtual number useful for someone in the UK?

Yes, absolutely. If you frequently receive calls from the USA, having a US virtual number means people in the USA can call you at a local US rate (or even for free if they have unlimited US calls). This can make communication easier and cheaper for your US contacts. Services like Telfon allow you to get a US virtual number that rings on your UK phone or computer.

Conclusion

Calling the USA from the UK is simple and affordable when you know your options. You can use traditional phones, mobile phones, or modern VoIP services. VoIP services, like Telfon, often offer the best value due to lower costs and flexible features.

Finding the right solution depends on your specific needs. Traditional and mobile calls work well for quick, reliable connections. VoIP services are ideal for regular calls, offering great savings and quality with a good internet connection. Telfon provides a robust, business-friendly platform that simplifies international calling and adds valuable features like US virtual numbers. By using the right tools and following these tips, staying connected with the USA is easy and cost-effective.