Fax is a way to send and receive documents over a phone line or online. Each fax number is unique and allows you to create a connection between a landline phone and a fax machine. Thanks to this set of numbers, everyone has the ability to send data around the world.
However, it is important to know that fax numbers differ not only in their unique sequence, but also in the number of digits and format. They vary depending on countries and regions. Therefore, if you need a fax number, you should familiarize yourself with all its nuances before choosing it.
Additionally, unlike email and instant messaging, a fax machine cannot correct or suggest the correct address if you enter it incorrectly. Consequently, it is essential to dial the proper number in order to contact the right recipient.
National Format
You are definitely familiar with the format of American telephone numbers. Fax number format follows the same logic. Do fax numbers have area codes? Absolutely. In the US and Canada, a standard fax number comprises 10 digits: a three-digit area code followed by a seven-digit local number, ensuring proper routing to the recipient. A typical fax machine number example for the United States is 123-576-3975. When sending faxes within the same country, the country code does not need to be included.
Let’s review an example: Delaware has a code 302, Hawaii — 808, Idaho — 208, and so on. If you see the number 302-1234567, it is definitely from Delaware. However, 808-1234567 has the same local number, but originates from Hawaii. You can spot it by looking only on the area code.
Local Format
If you are sending a fax within the same area or city, you can simplify the dialing process by omitting the country code and area code. This is because local fax transmissions do not require these codes; they only require the recipient’s unique local number. For example, when sending a fax to a local number, you simply dial the number without any prefixes. So, a typical local fax number would look like this: 576-3975. This makes the process faster and easier because you are only using the basic numbers specific to the recipient’s location in the same area.
International Format
Each country has a unique code, the entry of which should always begin with the “+” sign. For instance, in America the country code is [+1]. After that comes a unique number with the location of the recipient.
The length of the international fax number is longer than that of the US fax number. To send messages from the USA to other countries, the number order must be [+ or 011]-[country code]-[city or area code]-[local number].
For example, if you want to send a fax from the USA to Paris, you require an international fax number. After [+ or 011] you need to use the French country code [33], the Paris code [1], and then enter the recipient’s unique number. Thus, the fax number example will be 011-33-1-XX-XX-XX-XX.
US to International Fax Number Example
When sending a fax from the US to another country, you must first dial the international access code, which is ‘1’. An example format for a US to international fax number would be +1 208 1234567.
This format ensures the fax reaches the international switchboard and is correctly routed to the recipient’s country.
European International Fax Number Example
A typical European international fax number includes a country code and area code. A UK fax number typically begins with the country code +44. An example format would be +44 (0) 20 7123 4567. Here, ‘+44’ is the country code for the UK, and ‘20’ is the area code for London.
Correct formatting ensures successful transmission and avoids miscommunication.
Asian International Fax Number Example
In Asia, international fax numbers follow a similar format but with unique country codes. For example, a Japanese fax number might be formatted as +81 3 1234 5678. The ‘+81’ indicates the country code for Japan, and ‘3’ is the area code for Tokyo.
Toll-Free Fax Number Examples
Toll-free fax numbers allow businesses to receive faxes without incurring charges for the sender, making them an attractive option for many organizations. These numbers typically feature area codes like 800, 877, or 888, indicating that the call is toll-free for the sender.
Examples of toll-free fax numbers from the US and internationally will demonstrate their formats and benefits.
US Toll-Free Fax Number Example
In the United States, a standard toll-free fax number format is 1-800-XXX-XXXX. For example, a toll-free fax number might look like 1-800-123-4567. This format allows businesses to receive faxes without the sender incurring long-distance charges.
International Toll-Free Fax Number Example
International toll-free fax numbers allow businesses to receive faxes from overseas without the sender incurring costs. The format varies by country, often including a specific toll-free prefix such as ‘800’ or ‘888’.
For instance, an international toll-free number might appear as +800 1234 5678.
Virtual Fax Number Formats
Virtual fax numbers function similarly to standard fax numbers but are primarily used through the internet. These numbers offer greater flexibility and can be used on various devices, making them a popular choice for modern businesses.
Next, we’ll explore the format of online fax numbers and the benefits of using virtual fax services.
Online Fax Number Format
Online fax numbers are designed for use through digital platforms and typically follow the same digit format as traditional fax numbers. They include area codes just like traditional fax numbers, maintaining a familiar format for users.
Benefits of Virtual Fax Numbers
Using an online fax service eliminates the need for physical fax machines, reducing clutter and maintenance. Virtual fax numbers also offer cost savings, with starting costs as low as $.01 per page to send a fax.
How to Fax Online & Get a Number
Online fax numbers work just like traditional fax numbers, but they offer the flexibility of digital communication. When you sign up for an online fax service, you get a fax number that looks and functions just like a regular fax number. The best part? You can choose any area code from any state, making it easy to establish a local presence. Plus, whether you are sending a fax to the next town or across the country, the cost remains the same. This convenience means you can fax anywhere without worrying about extra charges!
A digital alternative to physical machines is not only more eco-friendly and ethical to the environment, since you do not use paper and ink, but also more convenient, simple and fast. All you need is an online fax service that provides uninterrupted and secured communication. To start using online fax, follow the simple algorithm of actions described below.
1. Find a provider
You can get a fax number from your mobile phone. You can get a number online and instantly start sending fax messages directly from your phone. To do this, choose a reliable and proven application. One such option is the Fax app, which not only allows you to get an online fax number instantly but also ensures that this number will stay with you forever. Then, install it on your mobile phone. This will turn your device into a fully functional fax machine, allowing you to send and receive faxes with a virtual fax number.
2. Register
Once you have installed the app, the next step is to register. This process is usually straightforward, and most app developers provide detailed guides that will walk you through each step. From creating a username to setting up security features of a virtual fax number, the registration process is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that even newbies can get a smooth experience. By following these instructions, you can create a personal profile and set up your account in just a few minutes.
3. Choose a subscription plan
Once you have signed up, it is time to choose a plan that suits your needs. Most fax apps offer a variety of pricing options, allowing you to choose the plan and a payment method that fits best. Whether you need a basic plan for occasional faxing or a more comprehensive package for frequent use, there are options for any budget and requirements. Take the time to review the different plans, compare their features, and choose the one that offers the best value and has no hidden fees.
4. Select a country and city
One of the great things about modern fax applications is the ability to choose the geographic location of your online fax number. You can choose your country and city, or choose a virtual fax number in another region if that better suits your business or personal needs. This flexibility allows you to establish a presence in another region or simply choose a location that suits your preferences. Whether you set up a local number or a number in another time zone, the choice is yours.
5. Get a unique number
The final step in the setup process is to get your unique online fax number. This number will be generated by the app and will serve as your identifier. Once you have your number, you are ready to send and receive faxes. This number will stay with you and ensure that your contacts will always be able to reach you via fax, providing that you log in the same account.
Now everything is ready to use fax communication!
How Long Is a Fax Number?
A fax number is usually the same length as a standard telephone number in the country where it is used. For example:
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The United States and Canada: the fax number is usually 10 digits long (e.g. 555-555-5555). If an area code is included, it may be represented as 11 digits (1-555-555-5555) for long-distance calls.
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United Kingdom: the fax number is usually 11 digits long (e.g. 020 1234 5678).
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Australia: the fax number is usually 9 digits long (e.g. 02 1234 5678).
The exact format depends on the structure of the country’s telephone number, including any international or area code. It is also worth noting that some countries use a specific number format, while others use a mixed system where numbers are separated by spaces or dashes.
How to Find a Country or Area Code?
You can easily find the required values on the Internet. Online services and databases will help you with this, for example, visit Country Code. It lists the codes of all countries, and also has a convenient field for quick search.
If you want to call from one country to another, and none of them is the United States, use the handy service How To Call Abroad. There, you can select the sending and receiving countries, and the platform will automatically give you part of the number, including country codes. You can then select a specific city or zone and substitute it into the resulting number. Then you will only need to enter the recipient’s unique local number.
As an illustration, let’s imagine you need to send a fax from Bangladesh to Paris. Select the countries you want and click “Submit”. Go ahead and select Paris from the following options. Take the resulting sequence of numbers [00]-[33]-[1] and simply add the recipient’s unique number to the end. Now you are ready to send your fax!
At the local level in the US, there is the North American Numbering Administration (NANPA), which has its own online service for looking up area codes. For example, here you can find the required area code by the name of it or, conversely, search for a city knowing only its code.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding fax number formats is crucial for effectively using any faxing device, be it an app, a website or a fax machine. Whether you’re sending faxes domestically or internationally, knowing how to correctly input fax numbers can save time and prevent communication errors. Remember these key points:
• Domestic fax numbers typically follow the format (area code) – local number • International fax numbers require the country code and may have varying formats
• Always include the “+” symbol before the country code for international faxes
• Some regions may have special dialing codes or prefixes Our fax app is designed to simplify this process, automatically formatting numbers and suggesting the correct dialing sequence.
However, familiarizing yourself with these formats will help ensure smooth faxing experiences, especially when dealing with international recipients.
Try FAX App now on App Store or Google Play.