Are Toll Free Numbers still Neccessary Today?

[KristineS]

We have toll free numbers for both companies, but they're primarily for customer service. Plus, the industry for our parent company has a technology lag that has to be seen to be believed. There are people who still fax in orders. Since we know the technology lag is there, and since servicing our customers in the manner that works best for them is important, toll free numbers are a must for us. I think it's about knowing who your customers are and how they communicate too. For some businesses, if most of their customers communicate via e-mail or text or cell phone, it may not matter. If, however, as we do, you work in an industry that hasn't absorbed new technology as quickly as might have been hoped, keeping methods of contact like a toll free number is vital.

[BNB]

In the world of free long distance, toll free numbers are an expensive waste.... yet a necessary waste. We rack up quite a huge bill for our 888 number and won't be getting rid of it anytime soon.

As huggytree said earlier, it's necessary to maintain the "legit" business look. For now we'll need to deal with it. However, I'd bet that in the next 5 years they will slowly disappear.

[Pack-Secure]

@ BNB: How much money per month do you consider expensive??

[canvard]

Well, if not costly, you can use one , so that customers may think you are a big company.