Over the past decade, the way non-geographic numbers (NGNs) work in the UK has changed significantly. Today, the two most commonly used freephone and low-cost NGNs are 0800 numbers and 0300 numbers.
Both of these options are widely used across businesses, government departments, and charities, but they serve different purposes and come with different cost structures. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between 0800 vs 0300 numbers in 2025 and explain which option may be better for your organisation.
What is an 0800 Number?
An 0800 number is a freephone number. Calls to 0800 (and 0808) numbers are completely free to the caller from both UK landlines and mobiles.
This makes them one of the most popular numbers for businesses that want to:
- Increase inbound calls from customers by removing call costs.
- Present a professional, nationwide presence without being tied to a local area code.
- Support marketing campaigns where response rates rely on easy, free contact.
Since Ofcom regulation came into force in July 2015, all mobile networks in the UK must treat 0800 and 0808 numbers as free to call. This policy continues to apply in 2025, making 0800 numbers universally free across all mainstream UK providers.
They are particularly effective for sales lines, customer enquiries, or helplines, where removing barriers to contact is essential.
Benefits of an 0800 Number
- Free for customers – studies show customers are more likely to call when it costs them nothing.
- Professional brand image – 0800 is instantly recognised as a trusted freephone number.
- National coverage – not linked to any geographic code.
- Flexible routing – calls can be directed to landlines, mobiles or call centres.
- Ideal for marketing – a single freephone number can boost campaign response rates dramatically.
Get an 0800 number easily from Number Supermarket and have it routed directly to your office or mobile within hours.
What is a 0300 Number?
A 0300 number is also a non-geographic phone number, but unlike 0800, the caller is not contacting you for free. Instead, calls are charged at the same rate as a standard local geographic number (01 or 02).
This means:
- Calls from landlines cost the same as dialling a standard UK landline. ● Calls from mobiles are included in bundled minutes or charged at the same ‘local rate’.
- There are no hidden premium rate charges.
- 0300 numbers were introduced to provide a fair and transparent cost option for public sector bodies, charities and non-profit organisations. Unlike 0845 or 0870, they avoid the negative reputation of being ‘expensive customer service numbers’.
Benefits of a 0300 Number
- Fair pricing for callers – cost is always the same as a local call, with no additional premium charges.
- Included in bundles – mobile customers often pay nothing if they have inclusive minutes.
- Trustworthy image – widely recognised as the standard number range for charities, government, and regulators.
- Centralised contact – one number can easily route calls to the right team or department.
- Good for organisations with public duty – perfect for services where free calls aren’t needed but low, fair pricing is important.
Number Supermarket offers 0300 numbers exclusively for charities, government bodies, and not-for-profit organisations.
0800 vs 0300 Numbers – Which should you choose?
| Feature | 0800 Numbers | 0300 Numbers |
| Cost to caller | Completely free (landline & mobile) | Local rate (same as 01/02 numbers) |
| Best for | Sales lines, customer services, helplines, marketing campaigns | Government bodies, charities, public |
| Trust perception | Seen as customer-friendly, professional, and national | Seen as fair, official, transparent |
| Caller behaviour | Higher call volume due to zero cost | Moderate call volume, trusted by people wary of premium numbers |
| Routing options | Can be routed to landline, mobile, or call centre | Same flexibility as 0800 numbers |
Key Takeaway
- 0800 numbers are free for customers and increase inbound calls, making them perfect for businesses focused on customer acquisition and service.
- 0300 numbers are charged at local rates and are typically reserved for charities, public bodies, and regulators that need fairness and transparency in caller costs.
Both can be invaluable tools for improving customer contact and projecting a professional image in 2025.
Which Number Is Right for You? Get Started Today!
Deciding between an 0800 and 0300 number can significantly impact how you engage with your customers or community. If you’re looking to remove cost barriers and attract more customers with a professional, nationwide presence, an 0800 number is the ideal choice. For organisations focused on transparency, fairness, and a trusted image, especially in the public or non-profit sector, a 0300 number offers a perfect solution.
Don’t wait—choose the right number for your organisation today. Contact Number Supermarket and get your 0800 or 0300 number up and running quickly to enhance your communications and boost your reach!
