What exactly are 0345 numbers?
If your business uses a 0345 number or you’re considering using one, it’s helpful to understand exactly what this prefix means. We’ll look at how it works, how it’s charged and how it compares to other number types.
Let’s take a closer look:
- Numbers beginning with 0345 are part of the wider 03 non-geographic number range. Unlike regional numbers (01 /02) these are not tied to a particular town or region.
- 0345s were introduced as an alternative to older ‘04/05/08/09’ style non-geographic numbers. The 0345 prefix is a ‘national rate’ type rather than ‘premium rate’.
- As 0345 numbers are non-geographic, they’re ideal for businesses that serve customers across the UK and want a single memorable number rather than a locality-specific prefix.
Key features of 0345 numbers:
- Calls to 0345 numbers should be billed the same as calls to an 01 or 02 landline number, whether made from a landline or from a mobile. This is mandated by the regulator Ofcom.
- If a caller’s mobile or landline plan includes ‘landline calls’ (i.e. calls to 01/02 numbers) under inclusive minutes, calls to 0345 numbers should generally be included under those terms, with no extra ‘premium’ rate.
- For your business, using a 0345 number gives a professional, national presence i.e. you’re not giving out a regional code but a UK-wide number that’s familiar to people.
Common business uses of 0345 numbers in 2025
- National customer service or support lines for a UK-wide business.
- Marketing contact numbers that avoid the higher cost perceptions of older 08-series service numbers.
- Organisations with remote or hybrid work setups that want a “floating” number not tied to a physical office location.
- Smaller firms that still want a professional footprint but without the cost burden of freephone (0800) numbers on their end.
Important points to consider:
- When you advertise the number, you might want to add a friendly note like: “Calls to this number are included in most landline inclusive minutes & mobile call packages – please check your operator’s terms.
- If you relocate your business or switch phone provider, the non-geographic nature of 0345 means you can usually retain the number, so customers and brand recognition don’t get lost.
- Compare 0345 with other number types e.g. 0333, 0300 & 0800) to choose what best fits your cost model, caller experience and branding.
Quick comparison table (2025 Stats)
| Number type | Geographic / regional? | Online perception | Typical cost to caller* | Best for… |
| 0345 | Not regional (non-geographic) | National business feel | Same as 01/02 landlines; included in many bundles. | UK-wide businesses wanting a professional number without premium charges |
| 0333 | Non-geographic | Similar to 0345 | Same base cost as 01/02 | UK-wide business lines, alternative to 0345 |
| 0300 | Non-geographic, reserved for charities / public sector | Non-profit/public-service feel | Same as 01/02 Planet Telecom | Charities, councils, public organisations |
| 0800 / 0808 | Freephone | “Free to caller” expectation | Free to caller (business pays) | High-volume inbound, strong ‘free call’ branding |
*Costs shown for standard landline or inclusive minute scenarios. Always check specific plan details.
Regulatory & Industry Updates for 2025
- Ofcom continues to enforce that calls to 03-series numbers (including 0345) must be treated as the same as geographic (01/02) calls in terms of pricing and inclusion in bundles.
- There is growing emphasis on transparency of call costs, especially for mobile tariffs and inclusive minutes, so businesses advertising 0345 numbers may benefit from clearer consumer messaging.
- The rise of remote work and VoIP solutions means non-geographic numbers like 0345 are increasingly used by smaller businesses, not just large corporations.
Why using an 0345 number makes sense
Using an 0345 number gives you a national-level presence without tethering you to a specific place. It’s cost-neutral for most callers (if their plan includes landline calls) and regulated so you’re not charging callers any premium. All of which gives flexibility and fairness to your callers.
Learn more about 0345 online or call 0330 332 0400 to speak to our team.
