Ever tried deciphering international calling codes, only to end up with a busy signal and a bewildered look? Calling China from America might seem like navigating a complex maze of digits and time zones, but it doesn't have to be! In today's globally connected world, staying in touch with family, friends, and business partners in China is more crucial than ever. Whether you're planning a trip, conducting business negotiations, or simply want to chat with loved ones, knowing how to efficiently and affordably make that call is an invaluable skill.
The process involves understanding the correct exit codes, country codes, area codes, and local numbers. Different calling methods, from traditional landlines to VoIP services and mobile apps, also offer varying costs and quality. Mastering these nuances ensures you can connect seamlessly and avoid frustratingly high phone bills. Learning how to call China effectively bridges geographical distances and strengthens important relationships.
What Do I Need to Know Before Calling China?
What is the correct country code for China when calling from the US?
The correct country code for China is 86. You will need to dial this code before the Chinese phone number when calling from the US.
When making an international call to China from the United States, you must follow a specific dialing format. This format includes the exit code for the US, the country code for China, the area code for the specific region in China, and the local phone number. Omitting any part of this sequence will result in a failed call. Here's the general format you'll need to follow: 011 (US exit code) + 86 (China country code) + Area Code (usually 2-3 digits) + Local Number (usually 7-8 digits). Remember that area codes in China can vary in length, so it's important to confirm the correct area code for the specific location you are trying to reach. Ensure that you are using the most up-to-date information, as dialing codes and formats are subject to change.How do I dial the exit code from the US?
To dial the exit code from the US, which allows you to call internationally, you will dial 011.
Calling China from the US requires several steps. First, you must dial the US exit code, 011. This signals to your phone carrier that you are making an international call. Following the exit code, you need to dial the country code for China, which is 86. Finally, you enter the specific area code in China (usually 2-3 digits) and then the local phone number. For example, if you were calling a mobile phone in China, the sequence might look like this: 011 + 86 + [Chinese Mobile Number - usually 11 digits]. For landlines, it would be: 011 + 86 + [Area Code] + [Local Number]. Remember to omit the leading '0' that is typically used when dialing within China itself when calling from abroad. It's worth noting that depending on your phone plan or service provider, you might incur international calling charges. Therefore, it's best to check with your provider beforehand to understand the rates and any international calling plans they offer, which might be more cost-effective than standard per-minute charges.Are there cheaper alternatives to calling China directly from America?
Yes, several cheaper alternatives exist for calling China from America compared to making direct international calls through traditional phone companies. These alternatives leverage Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology and other strategies to significantly reduce costs.
Many VoIP services like Skype, Google Voice, WhatsApp, WeChat, and Viber offer significantly lower rates than traditional phone companies for calls to China. These services often charge per minute rates that are a fraction of standard international call charges, or they may even offer free calls if both parties are using the same app and calling over a Wi-Fi or data connection. The cost savings can be substantial, particularly for frequent or long-duration calls. Before committing to a specific service, it's wise to compare rates and consider factors such as call quality and ease of use. Another cost-effective option is to purchase an international calling card. These cards offer prepaid minutes at discounted rates. While the quality of the call may sometimes be slightly lower than with VoIP services, it can be a reliable and budget-friendly choice. However, always check for hidden fees and expiration dates before buying a card. Finally, consider that some mobile phone providers offer international calling plans or add-ons which can provide better per-minute rates to China than standard charges if you call frequently.What time is it in China right now?
Since China operates on a single time zone, Beijing Standard Time (BST), which is also known as China Standard Time (CST), the time is always 12 to 13 hours ahead of United States time, depending on daylight saving time in the specific US location. To determine the current time in China, calculate the difference from your current time zone. For example, if it's noon in New York City (Eastern Time) during standard time, it's midnight in China.
China does not observe daylight saving time. This means that the time difference between the US and China can shift by an hour twice per year for locations in the US that observe daylight saving time. Therefore, it is important to always double-check the current time in both your location and China before making a call to avoid calling at inconvenient hours. To easily determine the current time in China, you can use online time zone converters or world clock websites. Simply input your current location and the desired location (China), and the converter will display the current time in both places. This ensures you are calling at a reasonable hour for the person you are trying to reach in China.Will I be charged international rates to call China from my cell phone?
Yes, you will almost certainly be charged international rates when calling China from your cell phone in the United States, unless you have an international calling plan or are using a service that specifically avoids these charges. The standard rates your carrier applies for domestic calls do not extend to international calls.
Calling internationally typically incurs additional charges due to the complexities of routing the call through international telecommunications networks. Your cell phone provider has to pay other companies to complete the call in China. These costs are passed on to you, often in the form of per-minute rates that are significantly higher than domestic rates. The exact cost will vary depending on your cell phone provider and whether you have any add-on international calling packages. To avoid high international rates, consider using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services like WhatsApp, Skype, WeChat (if your recipient also uses it), or Google Voice. These services use internet data instead of traditional phone lines, so calls to China would only use your data allowance (or Wi-Fi) and would not incur international calling charges from your cell phone provider. Before making a call directly from your cell phone, always check with your provider about their international rates and available calling plans to China.What is the area code I need to dial in China?
China does not have a single, unified area code that you dial from the United States. Instead, you first dial the exit code for the US (011), then the country code for China (86), and *then* the specific area code for the city or region you're trying to reach within China. So, while there isn't one 'China area code,' 86 is the country code you must always use.
To successfully call China from the US, you must piece together the correct dialing sequence. This begins with exiting the US telephone system using '011.' Following '011,' you dial '86,' which directs your call to China. After the country code, you will need the specific area code for the city you are calling. For example, if calling Beijing, the area code is '10,' while Shanghai uses '21.' You can easily find Chinese area codes online with a quick search. Therefore, a complete call to a landline in Beijing might look like this: 011-86-10-XXXXXXXX, where XXXXXXXX represents the local phone number in Beijing. When calling a mobile phone, you typically skip the area code and dial the 11-digit mobile number directly after the country code. For instance: 011-86-139XXXXXXXXX. Remember to always verify the specific area code or mobile phone format for your intended recipient to ensure your call connects correctly.Can I use WhatsApp or WeChat to call China for free?
Yes, you can typically use WhatsApp or WeChat to call China for free, provided that both you in America and the person you're calling in China have the app installed, a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data), and are calling app-to-app (i.e., not calling a regular phone number). These apps utilize Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, which transmits voice data over the internet instead of traditional phone lines, thus bypassing long-distance charges.
Using WhatsApp or WeChat for free calls to China depends entirely on internet connectivity. If you are on Wi-Fi, the call is essentially free. If you are using mobile data, the call will consume data, which could incur charges from your mobile provider depending on your data plan. In China, internet access and censorship can be factors. While WhatsApp is generally accessible with a VPN, WeChat is widely used without needing a VPN. Therefore, WeChat might be more consistently reliable for calls to China depending on the recipient's internet setup. Keep in mind that call quality is contingent upon the strength and stability of both parties' internet connections. A weak or unstable connection can lead to dropped calls, choppy audio, or delays. If call quality is consistently poor with WhatsApp, consider using WeChat if both parties have it. Always ensure both you and your contact have the latest version of the app installed for optimal performance and security.Alright, you're all set to connect with friends, family, or colleagues in China! I hope this guide made the process feel a little less daunting. Thanks for reading, and feel free to swing by again if you have any other questions about international calling or anything else that pops into your head!