International calls especially for businesses can be costly. To cut down on expenses, switching to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is a smart solution. VoIP providers offer international calling options, and the cost savings can be significant. This article explores how VoIP international calls function, whether they’re free, and what it costs to make them.
How does VoIP work internationally?
Before delving into VoIP international calls, it’s important to understand the concept of VoIP itself. VoIP technology enables phone calls over the internet instead of the conventional PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network). This cost-efficient alternative replaces the expensive system traditionally used for international calls.
You simply follow the same procedure as a regular landline call to make a VoIP international call. First, add the international dialing prefix, followed by the country, area, and local codes. Your VoIP provider may allow you to place the call directly from a connected device using a headset, or you may need to use a traditional phone connected to a VoIP router.
Is it free to make international VoIP calls?
VoIP is known to be more cost-effective than traditional phone systems, including international calls. It’s possible to make calls to some countries for as little as two cents per minute. Can VoIP international calls be free? Yes, under certain circumstances, such as when making calls within the same network.
Individuals familiar with services like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger will understand this concept. With these apps, you can make calls to other users of the same VoIP service at no cost, regardless of location. For instance, you can make international calls on WhatsApp without incurring charges.
Another option for making free VoIP international calls is through certain VoIP providers who offer a phone number in the country you frequently call. It grants you an international number, making your calls to associates or relatives in that country charged as local calls. Some VoIP services even offer plans with free local calls.
How much does it cost to make VoIP calls internationally?
A review of VoIP providers reveals that the cost of international calls varies from provider to provider. The charges for VoIP international calls can either be pay-per-minute or based on your subscription, depending on your chosen service.
The monthly plans of many VoIP providers do not cover international calls made using VoIP technology. These calls are charged separately, and the cost varies based on the destination country. Suppose a VoIP provider has a starting price of $26 per month. This plan includes one main phone number and three extensions.
As a user of that provider in the US or Canada, you can receive international calls at no charge. However, additional fees will be incurred for outgoing international calls and calls to offshore locations such as Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Alaska, and the Virgin Islands.
The cost of international calls varies by country and carrier. Some providers have a 60-day waiting period before activating VoIP international calls. Additionally, like some providers targeting medium and large businesses, a deposit of a specific amount is required to make VoIP international calls.
Additional VoIP international calls features
While price is a key factor in choosing VoIP for international calls, other benefits exist. The first is a managerial issue.
Traditional phone systems often leave you unaware of international call usage until bills are submitted for reimbursement, or your monthly statement arrives. With VoIP international calls, however, you can monitor the number of calls made, their duration, and who or what department made the call through a dashboard.
In addition, VoIP international calls offer superior sound quality compared to traditional phone calls. The call quality will be excellent because the calls are transmitted over the internet with a strong connection and ample bandwidth.
How VoIP Helps you keep your costs lower?
VoIP services cater to the needs of both large enterprises and small businesses or independent professionals, with options for a virtual number to help manage costs and maintain competitiveness.
Many VoIP providers, such as VoIP Business, offer a secondary number without requiring an extra device. Their app has a set monthly fee, making it easy for businesses to select a plan and optimize their phone usage with transparent pricing.
Other internet telephony providers provide additional cost savings through their marketing features. With group broadcast and advanced chat options, there’s no need to spend on external SMS marketing services, resulting in monetary savings.
Small businesses can benefit from cost-effective plans offered by Business VoIP software. As your business expands, you can upgrade to a higher-tier plan to accommodate your evolving needs. This scalability is a unique advantage that sets Business VoIP apart from similar solutions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, VoIP international calls offer a cost-effective solution for businesses and individuals who frequently make international calls. With a monthly plan or pay-per-minute options, you can save significantly compared to traditional phone systems. Some VoIP providers offer free calls within the same network or with a local number.
In addition to cost savings, VoIP international calls offer improved call quality and management features through a dashboard. With a range of plans available, businesses can choose a VoIP service that best fits their needs and budget, allowing for scalability as the business grows.
