Research studies indicate that 86% of U.S. consumers associate toll-free numbers with business quality, and 90% use toll-free numbers regularly.

Additionally, ads featuring toll-free numbers experience a 30% increase in conversions.

Both local and toll-free numbers provide compliant solutions for effective lead generation, yet each has advantages and disadvantages.

Recognizing these pros and cons is essential for making informed decisions tailored to your REI business needs. Selecting the right phone number can significantly impact your lead generation outreach and overall business success.

What Is a Local Phone Number?

Local numbers have a 3-digit (local) area code and are ideal for businesses that want to establish a local presence within a specific region. Local phone number providers typically don’t charge for incoming calls, making them cost-effective options for businesses operating within a particular area.

Local Numbers: The Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Local Presence: A local number can give your business a community feel, making it more relatable and accessible to local customers
2. Cost-Effective: Typically, local numbers are cheaper to set up and maintain than toll-free numbers
3. Local Advertising & SEO Benefits: Local numbers can improve local search engine rankings, as search engines prioritize local businesses for local searches
4. Local Area Credibility: A local phone number enhances a company’s credibility in a local area, fostering a sense of community and belonging

Cons:

1. Limited Reach: A local number may deter potential customers outside your local area
2. Perception: Some customers perceive local numbers as less professional or established compared to toll-free numbers
3. Portability Issues: If you relocate your business, changing your local number can be a hassle and may result in lost business
4. Market Expansion: As you expand into new markets, you will need to acquire a local number for each market

What Is a Toll-Free Number?

Toll-free numbers are identified by an 800 prefix and allow businesses to pay for both incoming and outgoing calls. This offers customers the convenience of connecting with businesses free of charge, irrespective of their location.

Toll-Free Numbers: The Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Wider Reach: Toll-free numbers can attract customers from all over the country, making it easier to expand your customer base
2. Professional Image: Toll-free numbers are often associated with established and reputable businesses, enhancing your company’s credibility
3. Portability: Toll-free numbers can be easily transferred or forwarded to any location, providing flexibility as your business grows
4. Omni-Channel Marketing: Toll-free numbers can be leveraged in omnichannel marketing, such as social media, to encourage “click to call” interactions

Cons:

1. Cost: Toll-free numbers can be more expensive to set up and maintain due to calling charges
2. Availability: Finding a memorable or vanity toll-free number can be challenging due to high demand
3. Limited Local Advertising & SEO Benefits: Unlike local numbers, toll-free numbers don’t offer the same local SEO advantages
4. Perceived as Spam: Toll-free numbers may sometimes be perceived as spam, reducing the likelihood of the call being answered

Local Number Vs Toll-Free: What Should I Get for My Business?

The choice between a local and a toll-free number hinges on your specific business needs.

Local numbers work well for smaller REI businesses with a limited local presence, typically operating within a few counties.

In contrast, toll-free numbers are better suited for larger operations looking to expand into markets across state lines.

Should I Get Both a Local and Toll-Free Number?

Opting for both local and toll-free numbers can maximize the advantages of each.

A local number can enhance your local presence and is well-suited for local advertising, while a toll-free number offers scalability and broader reach, enhancing customer experience and elevating your brand image.

Local, Toll-Free, or Both: Which Will It Be?

In conclusion, both local and toll-free numbers offer unique advantages and come with their own set of challenges. The right choice depends on your specific business needs.

By carefully weighing the pros and cons of each option and factoring in elements like your marketing strategies, stage of your business, budget, and expansion plans, you can make an informed decision that not only enhances your business communications but also aligns with your overall objectives.

So, which will it be for your REI business?