Firstly, what is a 0345 number?
Numbers beginning with 0345 are part of the non-geographic 03 range. These are UK-wide numbers (not tied to a specific town code) introduced so that (compared to 0845s) callers weren’t hit with extra high charges. In short, 0345s give the business a national look number without making it expensive for the caller. As Ofcom states, 0345 numbers must be treated at the same rate as standard geographic numbers (i.e., those starting 01 or 02), thereby bringing transparency and fairness to callers.
Rules & what to watch out for:
Key regulatory and pricing rules to consider:
(2025 Data)
- Calls to 03 numbers (including 0345) must cost no more than a call to a standard UK geographic number (01 or 02).
- These calls must be included in inclusive minutes or call bundles in exactly the same way as 01/02 calls. So if your package includes ‘UK landline calls’, then 0345 calls should be included.
- Always check your plan: if you’re out-of-bundle (i.e. you’ve used up your inclusive minutes or you’re on a pay-as-you-go plan) then the actual per-minute cost will vary by provider. Official guidance shows the broad cost range for 03 numbers is similar to geographic numbers e.g. up to 16 p/min from landlines & 3p-65p from mobiles.
- For businesses marketing a 0345 number, you can legitimately state that the cost to call is ‘the same as calling a UK landline’ (assuming your provider treats it accordingly).
Typical 0345 Cost Scenarios
Figures below are guide amounts only. Always check with your own phone provider for your exact tariff.
| Scenario | Typical cost (landline) | Typical cost (mobile) |
| Landline with inclusive UK-landline minutes | Included (no extra cost) | n/a |
| Landline without inclusive minutes (out-of-bundle) | Up to 16 p per minute | n/a |
| Mobile included minutes ( UK landline calls ) | n/a | Included if 03 numbers covered in bundle |
| Mobile out-of-bundle (pay-as-you-go or excess minutes) | n/a | 3p-65p per minute (varies greatly) |
Why it matters for both callers and businesses:
For the caller
- If you’re using a plan that says ‘inclusive UK landline calls’ then when you dial a 0345 number you should not incur extra added cost beyond your bundle.
- If you’re using a pay-as-you-go line, or you’ve exceeded your inclusive minutes, then you should check what your provider charges for 01/02 calls as 0345 will be the same unless there’s a special rate.
- If you’re calling from abroad or using a mobile, roaming charges may differ. It’s advisable to always check
For businesses using a 0345 number
- By using a 0345 number you’re giving your customers a nationwide feel without a premium charge stigma.
- You can communicate the cost clearly: ‘Calls to this number cost the same as calling any UK landline.’
- 0345s avoid the negative perception of older non-geographic numbers (like 084/087) which could carry higher charges or confusion.
Final thoughts
When you call a number starting 0345:
- For most callers with inclusive minutes, it won’t cost more than a standard landline call.
- If you’re outside your inclusive bundle, expect something similar to your standard landline rate (up to 16p per minute) – not dramatically higher.
- Always check your provider’s terms if you’re uncertain.
- For businesses, 0345 numbers are a solid choice: easily marketable, fair for customers & transparent in cost.
Find out more online or call 0330 332 0400 today.
