800 Number or Local?

[Twicepipes]

I service an area that borders on and has two different area codes. At the moment I have just the one area code. Would it be cheaper and or wiser to get an 800 number or add another local number with the other area code?

Thanks

[Masterplumb]

I service an area that borders on and has two different area codes. At the moment I have just the one area code. Would it be cheaper and or wiser to get an 800 number or add another local number with the other area code?

Thanks

I always feel more comfortable calling a local number then an 800 number for some reason.

[stxrus]

i'd go with a local # over the 800, unless you are dealing with a multi-state or county aera.

steve

[PLUMBER RICK]

with an 800#, caller id blocking doesn't work for the caller. it also allows you to track your source of calls. but there's a price to pay for an 800#.

i don't think it's a wise idea for you at this point in your business.

typically 800# work when you don't mind traveling some distance.

rick.

[Twicepipes]

typically 800# work when you don't mind traveling some distance.

rick.

I'm not a fan of huge empire-like service areas.
Thanks Rick

[NorthernIllinoisPlumber]

I chose the local number to show just that...I AM local and available. I think an 800# seems so, not hometown-local-we are here to stay.

[Gene Bickford]

I only use a cell # as my area is so rural I have to have a huge area that I travel. Many Plumbers in my area will not travel very far, and customers assume I will be the same, but since I am strictly a drain cleaning business in a rural area My service area is huge.

Many times I will get a call and the first thing the caller will ask is "where are you located?" I then reply "Pittsfield, but we travel all over" They then proceed to tell me their problem.

I think if I used a land line I would lose about 50% of my calls from the already weak yellow page ad calls just because potential customers assume that I would not travel that far.

[drainman881999]

I chose the local number to show just that...I AM local and available. I think an 800# seems so, not hometown-local-we are here to stay.

I second that.

[drainman881999]

I only use a cell # as my area is so rural I have to have a huge area that I travel. Many Plumbers in my area will not travel very far, and customers assume I will be the same, but since I am strictly a drain cleaning business in a rural area My service area is huge.

Many times I will get a call and the first thing the caller will ask is "where are you located?" I then reply "Pittsfield, but we travel all over" They then proceed to tell me their problem.

I think if I used a land line I would lose about 50% of my calls from the already weak yellow page ad calls just because potential customers assume that I would not travel that far.

WOW,Gene,how do you handle traveling so far?T&m,flat rate+mileage.etc,? I charge full time over 20 miles.Just wondering,as a person can rack up miles quick,servicing a multi-county area.

[ritajones]

I always feel more comfortable calling a local number then an 800 number for some reason.

Right, the local number looks more personable than the 800#, and it gives people a sense that your business is a local, hometown business.