Calling the UK from the US via VoIP is convenient and cost-effective.
VoIP technology simplifies online calls from the US to the UK by leveraging internet connectivity to transmit voice data.
This technology eliminates the need for traditional telephone infrastructure, significantly reducing international calling costs.
That’s why many small and mid-size businesses use VoIP business lines, which grew in popularity from 6.2 million in 2010 to 41.6 million in 2018 (about 35+ million lines).
VoIP offers a more powerful way to make calls and communicate globally. You can make calls from desktops, laptops, dedicated handsets, or even a mobile app.
The digital conversion of voice into data packets ensures clear and efficient communication.
Additionally, VoIP often offers features like call waiting, forwarding, and cost-effective international plans, further streamlining the process and providing a user-friendly, budget-conscious solution for international calls.
How to Call Mobile UK from the US
VoIP is a great alternative to traditional phone calls and is prominently used for both domestic and international communications.
Calling a mobile phone that has a UK number is pretty easy. You simply have to follow these 4 easy steps to get your calls through:
Step #1. Enter the Exit Code (011): Begin by keying in the exit code “011” to initiate an international call from the U.S.
Step #2. Dial the Country Code (44): Input the country code “44” for the United Kingdom, indicating the destination of your call.
Step #3. Dial the Mobile Code (7): Follow it up by dialing the mobile code “7,” specifying that your call is directed to a mobile phone in the UK.
Step #4. Enter the Mobile Phone Number: Complete the process by keying in the specific mobile phone number you wish to reach in the United Kingdom.
The number should typically be 9 digits long. So when you’re done calling a line in Bristol, for example, the string should look similar to this: 011-44-7-987-654-321 or +44-7-789-654-321.
What to Consider When Choosing the Right VoIP Service for International Calls
With so many VoIP solutions online, how do you choose the right service for your international calls? Here are some factors to consider:
1. Call Rates:
Compare international call rates offered by different VoIP providers. Look for transparent pricing structures without hidden fees.
2. Reliability:
Assess the provider’s track record for service uptime and call connectivity. Prioritize reliability to avoid dropped calls or service interruptions.
3. Features for International Calling:
Explore features tailored for international calls, such as competitive international plans or bundled minutes. Ensure the provider caters to your specific calling needs.
4. User Reviews:
Check user reviews and testimonials to gauge customer satisfaction with the provider’s international call services. Real-world experiences provide valuable insights.
5. Customer Support:
Evaluate the responsiveness and effectiveness of customer support, especially for international users.
A reliable support system ensures assistance when needed.
6. Compatibility with Your Setup:
Confirm that the VoIP service seamlessly integrates with your existing devices and network setup. Compatibility ensures a smooth transition to international VoIP calling without technical hiccups.
VoIP Setup Guide for International Dialing
If you’re ready to make international calls from the U.S. to the UK, here’s the quick VoIP setup guide:
1. Check Your Internet Connection:
Ensure a stable and high-speed internet connection for optimal VoIP performance.
Conduct a speed test to confirm that your bandwidth meets the requirements for international calls.
2. Update Software and Firmware:
Keep your VoIP software and devices up to date to benefit from the latest improvements and security patches.
Regular updates enhance the overall performance of your VoIP setup.
3. Adjust VoIP Settings:
Navigate through your VoIP system settings to configure it for international dialing.
Check for specific options related to international calls, such as enabling international dialing codes.
4. Test Your Setup Locally:
Make a local test call to ensure that your VoIP system is functioning correctly before dialing internationally.
This helps identify and address any potential issues in advance.
5. Consider Hardware Quality:
If using physical VoIP hardware, ensure it meets quality standards for clear international calls. High-quality headsets and devices contribute to a better communication experience.
6. Implement Security Measures:
Strengthen the security of your VoIP setup to protect against potential threats.
Set up firewalls, use secure passwords, and follow best practices to safeguard your international calls.
Understanding UK Dialing Codes
Navigating the UK dialing system is like deciphering a friendly code for smoother international calls.
Begin with the country code, which for the UK is +44. This code acts as the virtual gateway, signaling your call’s destination.
Following this, each region within the UK has its unique area code, narrowing down the location. For instance, London’s area code is 020.
Now, when dialing a local UK number, you’ll typically encounter an eight-digit sequence.
The first few digits represent the area code, specifying the region, while the remaining digits specify the individual’s local number.
Understanding this breakdown is crucial to avoid dialing confusion.
Essentially, it’s like entering a city through its gate (+44), navigating to the right neighborhood (area code), and finally reaching the specific house (local number).
Understanding the UK dialing structure remains crucial for VoIP calls to ensure your digital conversation navigates through the virtual landscape accurately.
Whether traditional or VoIP, this structure acts as a guide, making sure your call reaches its intended destination without any hiccups.
Tips for Clear International Conversations
Nobody enjoys a call that sounds like it’s underwater. Here are some tips to ensure hitch-free international calls:
1. Choose the Right Headset:
Opt for a quality headset when making international VoIP calls. A reliable headset minimizes background noise, ensuring your voice comes through clearly. Look for noise-canceling features to enhance call clarity.
2. Stabilize Your Internet Connection:
A stable internet connection is the backbone of clear international conversations. Ensure you have sufficient bandwidth, and if possible, connect to a wired network.
This helps avoid lag, disruptions and ensures a smooth communication flow.
3. Minimize Background Noise:
Create a quiet environment for your VoIP calls.
Background noise can interfere with the audio quality, making it essential to choose a quiet space for your international conversations. Close windows and doors, and reduce ambient noise for optimal clarity.
4. Use a VoIP-Optimized Router:
Invest in a router optimized for VoIP traffic. This ensures that your internet router prioritizes voice data, preventing delays and ensuring a consistent, clear connection during international calls.
5. Check Your Audio Settings:
Before dialing internationally, double-check your audio settings.
Ensure your microphone and speakers are configured correctly to avoid issues with audio input or output. Adjust volume levels for an optimal conversation experience.
Saving on International Calls: VoIP Features You Should Know
So you want to save money on international calls? These VoIP features help you minimize cost and maximize call quality:
1. Explore International Calling Plans:
Many VoIP providers offer specialized international calling plans or bundled minutes. Explore these options to find a cost-effective plan that suits your frequency of international calls.
This can significantly reduce your overall calling expenses.
2. Leverage VoIP Call Bundles:
Some VoIP services provide call bundles specifically designed for international calls. These bundles often come at discounted rates compared to standard pay-as-you-go models.
Explore these bundles to maximize your savings.
3. Take Advantage of Call Waiting and Forwarding:
VoIP features like call waiting and forwarding can enhance your international calling experience.
These features not only add convenience but can also help you optimize your calling costs by managing calls efficiently.
4. Utilize VoIP Mobile Apps:
VoIP mobile apps often offer competitive international call rates.
By using these apps on your smartphone, you can take advantage of cost-effective calling options, especially when compared to traditional mobile carriers.
5. Check for Special Promotions:
Keep an eye out for special promotions or discounts offered by VoIP providers.
Some providers may run limited-time offers or promotions, providing an opportunity to make international calls at even more budget-friendly rates.
How to Fix Common VoIP International Calls
nternational VoIP calls aren’t 100% perfect. Issues such as call quality and sudden connection glitches may arise.
Here are effective tips to ensure you have a hassle-free VoIP call from the US to the UK:
1. Ensure a Stable Internet Connection:
Start by confirming a robust and stable internet connection. A reliable connection is the foundation for quality VoIP calls. Check your internet speed and consider using a wired connection to avoid potential disruptions.
Ideally, your bandwidth should be at least 100 kbps of upload and download per VoIP line, according to Nextiva.
2. Update Your VoIP Software:
Keep your VoIP software up to date. Regular updates often include improvements to call quality and bug fixes. Ensuring you have the latest version enhances the overall performance of your VoIP system.
3. Optimize Audio Settings:
Double-check and optimize your audio settings before making an international call. Adjust the microphone and speaker settings to ensure clear audio input and output, minimizing the risk of sound issues during the call.
4. Choose a Quality Headset:
Invest in a quality headset. A good headset with noise-canceling features can significantly improve call clarity by minimizing background noise.
This is especially important for international calls where maintaining clear communication is crucial.
5. Test Your Setup Before the Call:
Conduct a local test call before dialing internationally.
This allows you to identify and address any potential issues with your setup, ensuring that you experience a smooth and interruption-free VoIP call to the U.K.
A seamless VoIP call from the US to the UK is crucial for effective communication without disruptions.
A hitch-free connection ensures clear audio quality, preventing misunderstandings and enhancing the overall conversation experience.
It’s particularly important for business communications, keeping discussions smooth and professional.
