Calling international numbers from the United States has never been easier. Whether you're calling family abroad, conducting business internationally, or traveling, there are multiple ways to make international calls. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about calling international numbers from the US.
Calling International Numbers from the US
When calling internationally from the US, you need to dial the exit code (011), followed by the country code, area code (if applicable), and the local phone number. However, modern online calling services simplify this process significantly.
Quick Example
To call a UK number from the US using traditional dialing: 011 + 44 + area code + number. With online services like Comza, you simply enter the full international number (e.g., +44 20 1234 5678) and click call.
Methods for Calling International from US
There are several ways to make international calls from the US, each with its own advantages:
1. Traditional Phone Service
Using your regular phone service (landline or mobile) to call internationally:
- Dial 011 (US exit code)
- Enter the country code
- Enter the area/city code (if applicable)
- Enter the local phone number
Example: Calling London, UK
011 + 44 + 20 + 12345678
Note: Traditional carriers charge $1-3 per minute
Traditional phone service is convenient but expensive, with rates typically ranging from $1-3 per minute for international calls.
2. Online/Browser-Based Services
Browser-based calling services like Comza allow you to make international calls directly from your computer or mobile browser:
- No app installation required
- No phone number needed
- Works on any device with a browser
- Rates starting from $0.02 per minute
- Simply enter the international number and click call
- 90% cheaper than traditional carriers
Example: Using Comza
- Visit the website
- Select the country
- Enter the phone number
- Click call - that's it!
Browser-based services are the most cost-effective option, offering rates 90% cheaper than traditional carriers while providing the same call quality.
3. Mobile Apps
Dedicated mobile apps for international calling:
- Require app installation
- May require phone number verification
- Often offer competitive rates
- Some apps offer free app-to-app calling
- May include additional features like call recording
Mobile apps are convenient if you prefer a dedicated application, though browser-based services offer similar functionality without installation.
Understanding International Number Format
International phone numbers follow a standard format:
Format: + [Country Code] [Area Code] [Local Number]
+44 20 1234 5678
US Exit Code Format (Traditional):
011 44 20 1234 5678
Common Country Codes
Here are country codes for popular destinations from the US:
Europe
- UK: +44
- Germany: +49
- France: +33
- Spain: +34
- Italy: +39
Asia
- India: +91
- China: +86
- Japan: +81
- Philippines: +63
- Bangladesh: +880
Americas
- Canada: +1
- Mexico: +52
- Brazil: +55
- Argentina: +54
Other
- Australia: +61
- South Africa: +27
- Nigeria: +234
Step-by-Step Guide
Using Browser-Based Services (Recommended)
- Choose a service: Select a browser-based calling service like Comza
- Create an account: Sign up (no phone number required)
- Add credits: Purchase credits to make calls (pay-as-you-go)
- Select country: Choose the destination country from the dropdown
- Enter number: Type the phone number (with or without country code)
- Check rate: Review the rate before calling
- Make the call: Click the call button and start talking
Using Traditional Phone Service
- Dial exit code: Start with 011 (US exit code for international calls)
- Enter country code: Dial the country code (without the + sign)
- Enter area code: If the country uses area codes, dial it next
- Enter local number: Dial the remaining digits of the phone number
- Press call: Wait for the connection
Note: Traditional phone service charges $1-3 per minute. Consider using online services for significant savings.
Understanding Costs
The cost of calling internationally from the US varies significantly by method:
Traditional Carriers
- $1-3 per minute
- Monthly plans available
- Requires phone service
- Higher overall costs
Example: 10-minute call = $10-30
Online Services
- $0.02-0.05 per minute
- Pay-as-you-go
- No phone required
- 90% cheaper
Example: 10-minute call = $0.20-0.50
Tips for Best Experience
- Use online services: Save up to 90% compared to traditional carriers
- Check rates first: Always verify the cost before making a call
- Use Wi-Fi: Make calls over Wi-Fi for better quality and to save mobile data
- Verify number format: Ensure you have the correct country code and number format
- Consider time zones: Be mindful of time differences when calling internationally
- Test connection: Make a short test call first to ensure everything works
- Use headphones: For better audio quality and privacy
- Monitor usage: Keep track of call duration to stay within budget
Common Questions
Do I need to dial 011 when calling internationally from the US?
When using traditional phone service, yes - you need to dial 011 (the US exit code) before the country code. However, when using online calling services like Comza, you simply enter the full international number with the + sign (e.g., +44 20 1234 5678) - no exit code needed.
How much does it cost to call internationally from the US?
Costs vary by method. Traditional carriers charge $1-3 per minute, while online services like Comza offer rates starting from $0.02 per minute - that's 90% cheaper! A 10-minute call costs $10-30 with traditional carriers vs. $0.20-0.50 with online services.
Can I call international numbers from my mobile phone?
Yes! You can call internationally from your mobile phone using traditional dialing (011 + country code + number), or use mobile apps and browser-based services. Browser-based services work on mobile browsers, so you can make calls from your phone without using your mobile carrier's expensive international rates.
Do I need a special plan to call internationally?
With traditional carriers, you may need an international calling plan. However, online services like Comza don't require any special plan - you simply add credits and start calling. No monthly fees or subscriptions required.
What's the easiest way to call internationally from the US?
Browser-based calling services are the easiest option. Simply visit the website, select the country, enter the number, and click call. No app installation, no phone number required, and rates are 90% cheaper than traditional carriers.
Conclusion
Calling international numbers from the US is straightforward with modern online calling services. While traditional phone service requires dialing 011 and can cost $1-3 per minute, browser-based services simplify the process and offer rates starting from just $0.02 per minute.
Whether you're calling family, friends, or business contacts abroad, online calling services provide the most cost-effective and convenient solution. No special plans, no complicated dialing codes - just simple, affordable international calling.
Ready to Call Internationally from the US?
Comza makes it easy to call international numbers from the US. No 011 needed, no complicated dialing - just select the country, enter the number, and call. Rates starting from $0.02 per minute, 90% cheaper than traditional carriers.
Start Calling