eurotrotter

Consumers underestimate the cost of 118 numbers when travelling

New information suggests that consumers frequently miss-estimate the cost of directory enquires. A simple phone call to a 118 number can often lead to a very complicated bill. A fee is charged when a customer calls a 118 number, and each additional minute is charged at a different rate. Finding a person’s phone number or the location of a business can get expensive fast.

Tack on services, such as being automatically connected to the customer service phone number requested, can really drive up the cost as well. If a customer makes their directory enquiries from a mobile phone, the charges can be higher than they would be if the call was made from a land line. Sometimes enquiries are actually cheaper from a mobile phone. From a consumer’s perspective, there seems to be no rhyme or reason behind the fees charged by directory enquiry numbers. There are far to many companies offering their services to keep track of them all.

In the good old days, directory enquires were actually free from a call box. Phone companies provided their own customers with directory assistance for about 50p. In 2003, the system was liberalised and hundreds of companies were formed to take advantage of the newly opened market. Experts hoped that the competition would lead to better and cheaper services. Unfortunately, this did not happen. Today, directory enquiries are more expensive and more confusing than ever before.

There are a few things a consumer can keep in mind when using directory enquiry phone numbers. It is a good idea to be familiar with the fee before picking up the phone. There are over 200 directory enquiries providers in the United Kingdom. You might want to find the phone number for a company that is inexpensive or that offers services you like. Store this phone number in your cell phone. Calling from a landline is usually cheaper than using a mobile phone. If you have a bit of time and internet access, then you might want to consider searching for the phone number or business you are looking for online. Being a bit cautious when using a directory service is a good way to avoid an unexpectedly high bill.