When we think of beautiful telephone numbers for companies, the well-known service numbers, such as 0800- and 0900 telephone numbers, often come to mind. But there is another interesting option, namely the 088-number.

In this article, you will discover six reasons why a 088 number can be advantageous for entrepreneurs, as well as the associated costs and the difference with a 085 number.

What is a 088 number?

088 numbers are business numbers that are not tied to a specific geographical region. This means that as a company you are not limited to a certain city, such as Amsterdam or Rotterdam. A 088 number offers a national image, ideal for large companies with multiple locations! A 088 number consists of ten digits, starting with 088, followed by a 7-digit telephone number.

Six reasons to apply for a 088 number

But what are our six ultimate reasons to apply for a 088 number? Read on!

1. National image

A 088 number offers a professional image without geographical limitation. Since their introduction in 2004, people have become familiar with these numbers. Large companies and government institutions use them to guarantee national accessibility. This allows new customers from all over the Netherlands to contact you, which contributes to a reliable impression.

2. Number block for your company

The Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) issues 088 numbers in blocks. This makes them particularly suitable for companies with multiple locations or departments. This allows employees within the same organization to all use their own 088 number, without geographical restrictions. For the registration of a 088 number, a small annual surcharge of 8.66 euros per block is payable to the ACM.

3. Blocks of at least one hundred pieces

In contrast to 0800 and 0900 numbers, which are issued individually, the ACM offers 088 numbers in blocks of at least one hundred numbers. This makes it easier to register a large number of numbers for your company at once and to link them to different departments or locations. A 088 number consists of ten digits, starting with 088, followed by a 7-digit telephone number.

4. Functions of 088 numbers

With a 088 number you benefit from the same functions as with service numbers. Belfabriek offers advanced VoIP platforms with options such as waiting texts, a selection menu, call recording and voicemail via e-mail. These telephone functions are essential for companies that want to communicate professionally with their customers and ensure good accessibility.

5. Low cost of calling 088 numbers

One of the major advantages of 088 numbers is that callers pay a local rate. This means that they will not unexpectedly face higher costs and that calls are often included in the calling plan. Customers can easily reach you without having to worry about extra call costs. This provides certainty and again creates a sense of reliability.

6. Easy to apply for a 088 number

Applying for a 088 number can be done easily online via our number shop. We register the numbers free of charge with the ACM, after which you will receive an allocation decision. Check our webshop to see if your desired telephone number and number block are still available. Make sure you register in time, because these numbers are assigned by the ACM on a ‘first come, first served’ basis!

088 number or 085 number?

It is important to mention that a 088 number block is mainly intended for larger organizations, such as banks, hospitals and companies with multiple locations. We also receive many requests for 088 numbers from entrepreneurs who manage different webshops, sister companies or websites. They often think that one block is enough to get by for the time being.

However, please note that the use of a 088 number by sister companies or on loan is not permitted. If this is discovered, the entire number block can be withdrawn, which can lead to a lot of hassle and renumbering.

If you as an entrepreneur want more flexibility and do not necessarily need a whole number block, consider a 085 number. A 085 number, just like a 088 number, is not geographically bound. We have these numbers in stock and do not need to be requested from the ACM. Because it is a single 085 number and not a (088) number block, they are also often cheaper.

In addition, a 085 number still offers you the possibility to use multiple numbers for different companies, without being tied to a large block. Are you hesitating between a 088 number and a 085 number? We are happy to help you with this! Both are national numbers that can be reached at a local rate for the caller, making them perfect for you as an entrepreneur.