Calling the UK from the US using Verizon might seem like a maze of codes and charges, but don't fret! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every single step, ensuring your call goes through without a hitch. Let's get started, shall we?
Dialing the UK from the US with Verizon: Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Ever found yourself staring at your phone, a UK number in hand, and a puzzled expression on your face, wondering how to connect with your loved ones, colleagues, or business partners across the pond? You're not alone! The process of international dialing can be a bit daunting, especially with all the prefixes and country codes involved. But fear not, because by the end of this guide, you'll be a pro at dialing the UK from your Verizon phone in the US.
Step 1: Are you Ready to Connect Globally? - Your Initial Check
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of dialing, let's make sure you're all set up for international calls. This is the most crucial first step, as it can save you a lot of frustration later on.
Do you have an International Dialing Plan? This is often the biggest hurdle. Verizon offers various international plans and add-ons that can significantly reduce the cost of your calls. Without one, you might be looking at pay-per-minute rates that can add up quickly.
Check your Verizon Plan: The easiest way to do this is to log into your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app. Navigate to your plan details and look for international calling options.
Contact Verizon Customer Service: If you're unsure or can't find the information, don't hesitate to dial 611 from your Verizon phone or 1-800-922-0204 from any phone to speak with a representative. They can help you add an international plan if needed.
Consider a "TravelPass" or "International Long Distance" Plan: These are popular options for occasional or frequent international callers.
Is your phone provisioned for international calls? Most modern smartphones are, but it's worth a quick check, especially if you have an older device. Generally, if you have an international plan, your phone will automatically be set up for international dialing.
Do you know the exact UK number you want to dial? Double-check the number to avoid misdials and wasted minutes. Ensure it's the full number, including the area code (without the leading zero, which we'll discuss soon).
Step 2: Understanding the Building Blocks of an International Call
International dialing isn't just about punching in a number. It involves a sequence of codes that tell the phone network where to direct your call. Think of it like a global address system for your phone call.
The U.S. Exit Code (011): This is the first piece of the puzzle. When you're dialing out of the United States, you always start with 011. This tells your Verizon network that you're making an international call.
The UK Country Code (44): Every country has a unique country code. For the United Kingdom, it's 44. This code identifies the UK as the destination for your call.
The UK Area Code (without the leading zero): UK phone numbers often start with a leading zero in their area codes when dialed within the UK (e.g., 020 for London). However, when dialing from outside the UK, you omit this leading zero.
For example: If a London number is shown as 020 1234 5678, you will dial 20 1234 5678.
Common UK Area Codes Include:
20 (London)
161 (Manchester)
121 (Birmingham)
131 (Edinburgh)
29 (Cardiff)
28 (Belfast)
The UK Local Number: This is the specific subscriber number you want to reach. It will typically be 7 or 8 digits long, following the area code.
Step 3: The Magic Sequence - Assembling Your Dialing String
Now that you understand the individual components, let's put them all together in the correct order. This is the exact sequence you'll dial on your Verizon phone.
Start with the U.S. Exit Code: Dial 011.
Add the UK Country Code: Immediately after 011, dial 44.
Enter the UK Area Code (without the leading zero): Follow the 44 with the UK area code, omitting the initial zero.
Finally, dial the UK Local Number: Complete the sequence by entering the remaining digits of the UK phone number.
Here's the formula:
011 + 44 + [UK Area Code (without leading zero)] + [UK Local Number]
Let's look at an example:
Imagine you want to call a friend in London, and their number is 020 7946 0123.
You would dial: 011 44 20 7946 0123
011 (U.S. Exit Code)
44 (UK Country Code)
20 (London Area Code, without the leading zero)
7946 0123 (Local London Number)
Step 4: Verify and Double-Check - Before You Press Send
Even seasoned international callers make mistakes. A quick review can save you from a misdial and potential charges.
Read the entire number back to yourself. Does it match the number you intend to call?
Confirm the area code. Did you remember to drop the leading zero if it was present in the original number?
Are you sure about the UK country code (44)? It's easy to mix up country codes if you're calling multiple international destinations.
Check for any extra digits or missing digits. Each part of the sequence is crucial.
Step 5: Making the Connection - Pressing the Call Button
Once you've confidently assembled your dialing string and double-checked it, simply press the "Call" or "Send" button on your Verizon phone. You should then hear the familiar ringtone (or an international dial tone, depending on the recipient's phone system).
Step 6: Troubleshooting Common Issues - What if it Doesn't Work?
Sometimes, despite following all the steps, your call might not go through. Don't panic! Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:
"Your call cannot be completed as dialed" or similar message:
Check your international plan: This is the most common reason. If you don't have an international plan or add-on, Verizon might block the call. Refer back to Step 1.
Incorrect dialing sequence: Carefully re-enter the number, following the formula in Step 3 exactly.
Missing or incorrect country/area code: Ensure you have the 011, 44, and the correct UK area code (without the leading zero).
Incorrect local number: Double-check the recipient's number.
Service outage: Rarely, there might be a temporary service issue with Verizon or the UK network. Try again after a few minutes.
High Costs:
This almost always points to not having an appropriate international calling plan. If you frequently call the UK, investing in a Verizon international add-on will save you a lot of money.
Consider alternative calling methods for cost-saving: If you have Wi-Fi access, apps like WhatsApp, Google Meet, Skype, or Facetime (for iPhone users) offer free or very low-cost calls over the internet.
Poor Call Quality:
Network congestion: This can happen, especially during peak hours.
Signal strength: Ensure you have good cellular signal on your Verizon phone.
Recipient's connection: Sometimes the issue might be on the UK end.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some quick answers to common questions about dialing the UK from the US with Verizon:
How to check my Verizon international calling plan?
You can check your Verizon international calling plan by logging into your My Verizon account online or via the My Verizon app, or by calling Verizon customer service at 611 from your Verizon phone.
How to get a good rate for calls to the UK from Verizon?
To get a good rate for calls to the UK, add a Verizon international calling plan or TravelPass to your account. These add-ons significantly reduce per-minute charges.
How to dial a UK mobile number from the US Verizon?
You dial a UK mobile number the same way you dial a landline: 011 (US exit code) + 44 (UK country code) + the UK mobile number (which typically starts with 7, without a leading zero).
How to use Wi-Fi calling for calls to the UK on Verizon?
If your Verizon phone supports Wi-Fi Calling, enable it in your phone settings. When connected to Wi-Fi, calls to the UK can often be made at your domestic rates or even free, depending on your plan and the app you use (e.g., WhatsApp, Facetime).
How to call toll-free numbers in the UK from the US Verizon?
UK toll-free numbers (often starting with 0800 or 0808) are generally not accessible from outside the UK. You'll need to find an alternative non-toll-free contact number for the organization.
How to send a text message to the UK from the US Verizon?
You send a text message to the UK from Verizon by following the same dialing format as a call: +44 (UK country code) followed by the UK mobile number (without the leading zero). Your standard international texting rates will apply, or it may be included in your plan.
How to find the correct UK area code for dialing from the US?
You can find correct UK area codes by doing a quick online search for "UK area codes" or by asking the person you are trying to reach for their full number as it should be dialed internationally (i.e., without the leading zero).
How to troubleshoot if my call to the UK isn't connecting on Verizon?
If your call isn't connecting, first ensure you have an international plan. Then, double-check the dialing sequence: 011 + 44 + UK Area Code (no leading zero) + Local Number. If issues persist, contact Verizon support.
How to call a UK number starting with +44 from the US Verizon?
If a UK number is given with a +44 prefix, simply replace the '+' with '011' when dialing from the US. So, +44 becomes 011 44, followed by the rest of the number (without the leading zero if present after the +44).
How to check the time difference between the US and the UK before calling?
To check the time difference, search online for "time difference US to UK" or "current time in London" (or the specific UK city). The UK generally observes British Summer Time (BST) in summer and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) in winter, which impacts the time difference.