Most businesses take whatever number comes up in search. For some, the number itself is worth choosing: a memorable pattern for advertising, or a consecutive block for a large phone system.
Vanity and memorable numbers
A vanity number spells a word on the keypad, like 1-800-FLOWERS, or follows an easy pattern such as 020 3000 3000.
Worth it when:
- the number appears in radio, TV or outdoor advertising
- customers need to remember it without writing it down
- it reinforces your brand name
Things to know:
- Word-based vanity numbers are mostly a North American toll-free habit. In Europe, memorable digit patterns work better.
- The best patterns on older prefixes (800 in the US, 0800 in the UK) are scarce. Newer prefixes such as 833 and 844 have more availability.
- Premium patterns may carry a higher one-off or monthly price.
Use the “starts with” field in our search to look for patterns, or ask sales to check a specific combination.
Consecutive number blocks
A block is a run of consecutive numbers, for example +44 20 7946 0100 to 0199.
Worth it when:
- you’re giving every employee a direct-dial number
- your PBX maps extensions to the last digits (extension 142 = number ending 0142)
- you want a clean range for a contact centre or branch office
Things to know:
- Blocks usually come in 10, 100 or 1,000 numbers, depending on the country and range.
- Some countries allocate numbers to operators in blocks, so consecutive ranges are easier to find there.
- Blocks are priced per number, often with volume discounts.
Porting existing ranges
If you already have a block with another provider, you can usually port it as a whole range rather than number by number.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose the exact number I want?
If it’s available, yes. Search by starting digits, or ask sales to check a specific number or pattern.
Are consecutive blocks available in every country?
Not everywhere. Availability depends on the country’s numbering rules and current stock.
Ask about blocks and vanity numbers