Picking the right kind of number sets the tone for every call your business receives. This guide explains the types ReliaRing offers so you can choose with confidence. Availability varies by country — you'll see exactly which types are available when you search under Phone Numbers → Buy Numbers.
The main types
Local numbers
A local number has an area code tied to a specific city or region (for example, a 416 number for Toronto or a 212 number for Manhattan).
- Best for: businesses that serve a particular area, or that want a familiar hometown presence.
- Why people choose it: customers are more likely to answer and trust a number from their own area code. Local numbers are usually the most economical option, and many ReliaRing plans include one or more free local numbers.
Toll-free numbers
Toll-free numbers start with 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, or 833. They're free for your customers to call — you cover the cost of incoming calls.
- Best for: support lines, sales hotlines, and businesses that serve customers across a whole country.
- Why people choose it: a professional, nationwide feel and no cost to the caller.
National numbers
Some countries offer non-geographic national numbers that work the same from anywhere in the country, without being tied to one city.
- Best for: national businesses and call centers that don't want to signal a single location.
Mobile numbers
In countries where they're offered, mobile numbers display as a mobile line and often support two-way texting.
- Best for: field reps and personal business lines where a mobile look feels more approachable.
Premium numbers
Premium numbers are sought-after picks in exclusive area codes (such as 212 in New York or 416 in downtown Toronto). They carry a higher price because they're in high demand.
- Best for: brands that want a prestige local presence.
A quick comparison
| Type | Feel | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Local | Hometown, familiar | Local shops, offices, service businesses |
| Toll-free | National, professional | Support and sales lines |
| National | Countrywide, neutral | Multi-region businesses |
| Mobile | Personal, approachable | Field and personal lines |
| Premium | Prestige | Brand-forward businesses |
How to decide
- Serving one city or region? Start with a local number.
- Customers all over the country? Consider toll-free or national.
- Want a memorable, brandable number? Look at vanity options (see Vanity Numbers: Custom, Memorable Numbers).
- Want a prestige area code? Consider premium.
You don't have to choose just one. Many businesses run a local number for their neighborhood presence and a toll-free number for everyone else, all on the same account.
What it costs
Prices depend on the type and the country. To see current pricing before you buy, use Billing → Rate Lookup or check the pricing page on our website. When you search under Phone Numbers → Buy Numbers, the monthly price is shown next to each available number.
Tip: If your plan includes free local numbers (called number credits), they're applied automatically at checkout, so a qualifying local number can cost nothing extra.