What Exactly is a 0345 Number?
If you’ve ever seen a phone number beginning with 0345, you may have wondered what type of number it is, who uses it and whether it costs extra to call. This guide explains what a 0345 number is, why so many companies choose them and what callers can expect (in 2025 & beyond).
A 0345 number forms part of the wider 03 number range introduced by Ofcom to provide a fair and transparent alternative to older non-geographic numbers such as 0845 and 0870. Unlike geographic 01 and 02 numbers, 0345 numbers are not linked to any specific UK location, giving businesses and organisations a nationwide presence. helping them appear professional and accessible regardless of where they’re physically based.
Key feature of 0345 numbers:
- They must be charged at the same rate as standard UK landline numbers.
- 0345s must never be charged at premium rates – making them one of the most caller-friendly non-geographic options available.
- Replace expensive 0845 numbers with a newer, fairer 0345 option.
So, why do businesses use 0345 numbers?
Businesses choose 0345 numbers because they offer a strong balance of professionalism, flexibility and affordability. Unlike a traditional geographic number, a 0345 number is not tied to a specific city, which means a company can advertise one national phone line no matter where its offices or staff are located. This makes the number ideal for customer service teams, helplines, multi-site businesses and organisations that want to appear consistent across the UK.
Another major benefit is cost transparency. Since 0345 numbers must be charged at standard geographic rates, callers generally feel more comfortable using them. This helps businesses avoid the negative perception associated with older “expensive” numbers and encourages customers to get in touch without worrying about high charges.
Behind the scenes, companies also gain flexible routing options, allowing calls to be directed to different offices, remote workers or call centres.
How much does it cost to call a 0345 number?
In 2025, the cost of calling a 0345 number is governed by Ofcom regulations (requiring all 03 numbers to be charged at the same rate as 01 and 02 regional numbers). So, callers will find that 0345 calls are included within their bundled minutes (mobile contract or landline package). If you have used your inclusive minutes or are on a pay-as-you-go plan, the exact cost will depend on your provider’s standard landline rate, e.g. typically up to around 16p per minute from landlines and between roughly 3p and 65p per minute from mobile networks.
These regulations ensure that:
- Callers are never hit with hidden service charges or inflated access fees.
- For businesses, this makes 0345 an extremely safe number to publicise, as you can confidently tell customers that ‘calls cost the same as a standard UK landline.’
What makes 0345 numbers different from other non-geographic numbers?
The 0345 range was specifically designed to provide a fair, transparent, and consumer-friendly alternative to older 0845 numbers. This is why 03 numbers have become the preferred choice for charities, government bodies, retail organisations, banks, utilities and customer-support centres across the UK.
Their flexibility extends beyond cost, too, as 0345 numbers are not tied to locations, businesses can relocate offices, add new call-handling teams or even move their business entirely without ever needing to change their main number. A significant advantage for growing companies or those undergoing digital transformation!
In Conclusion
A 0345 number is a modern, professional and customer-friendly phone number. For callers, it means predictable pricing and the reassurance that the call will cost no more than a standard UK landline. For businesses, it offers national presence, flexible routing, regulatory transparency and a hassle-free experience for customers trying to reach them.
Find out more about 0345s online or call 0330 332 0400.
