Ever tried calling a friend or business contact in China only to be met with confusion or a failed connection? Connecting with people in China can feel daunting, especially if you're unfamiliar with international dialing codes, time zone differences, and even the etiquette around phone calls. But in today's increasingly globalized world, clear and reliable communication with China is essential for everything from building business relationships to staying in touch with loved ones.
Whether you're a seasoned international businessperson, a student studying abroad, or simply want to chat with family and friends, knowing how to effectively and affordably call China is a valuable skill. Incorrect dialing can lead to frustration, missed opportunities, and unexpectedly high phone bills. This guide will provide you with the essential steps and insider tips to make your calls to China smooth and successful.
What do I need to know before I dial?
What's the correct dialing code for calling China from the US?
The correct dialing code for calling China from the US is 011-86.
To successfully call a phone number in China from the United States, you must first dial the US exit code (011), which allows you to dial internationally. Next, you dial China's country code (86). This is a unique identifier for China and is essential for routing your call to the correct country. Finally, you must dial the area code of the specific region or city within China you are trying to reach, followed by the local phone number of the person or business you are calling.
For example, if you are calling a mobile phone in China, the area code is typically incorporated into the mobile number. Therefore, the entire sequence would be: 011 (US exit code) + 86 (China country code) + [Chinese mobile number]. When calling a landline, you'll need to find the specific area code for that city. Keep in mind that time zone differences can be significant, so consider the time in China before making your call.
How do I call a Chinese mobile number versus a landline?
Calling a Chinese mobile phone number is very similar to calling a landline, with the main difference being the initial digit after the country code. For both, you'll first dial the exit code (typically 011 from the US or Canada, 00 from most other countries), then China's country code (86). For a mobile number, the number that follows 86 will always start with the digit '1', whereas a landline number will begin with the area code (which doesn't start with '1').
When calling a mobile phone, the full format will be: Exit Code + 86 + 1[followed by the 10-digit mobile number]. So, from the US, it would look like 011 86 1XXXXXXXXXX. When calling a landline, the format is: Exit Code + 86 + Area Code (without the leading 0) + Local Number. It is important to remember to drop the leading zero from the area code when dialing internationally. For example, to call a Beijing landline (area code 010), you would dial 011 86 10 [followed by the 8-digit local number], if calling from the US. Because China's area codes can vary in length, always double-check the correct area code for the specific city or region you're trying to reach. Incorrectly dialing the area code can result in your call not going through, or even being connected to the wrong number. Always confirm the number with your contact in China to ensure accuracy, especially if calling a landline.Are there cheaper alternatives to direct dialing to China?
Yes, several significantly cheaper alternatives exist to direct dialing China, primarily leveraging Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology or utilizing calling cards.
Direct dialing, while straightforward, typically incurs high per-minute charges from traditional phone companies. VoIP services, on the other hand, route calls over the internet, drastically reducing costs. Popular VoIP providers offer plans specifically tailored for international calling, often featuring significantly lower rates to China compared to standard landline or mobile providers. These services include options like pay-as-you-go plans, monthly subscriptions with a set number of minutes, or even unlimited international calling packages, depending on your usage needs. Calling cards, either physical or virtual, are another viable option. These cards usually offer a fixed amount of calling credit at a discounted rate. You dial a specific access number, enter your PIN, and then dial the Chinese phone number you wish to reach. While convenient, it's crucial to carefully examine the terms and conditions of calling cards, paying particular attention to connection fees, maintenance charges, and expiration dates, as these hidden costs can sometimes diminish the apparent savings. In addition to VoIP services and calling cards, consider using messaging apps that offer voice and video calling capabilities, such as WeChat, WhatsApp, or Skype. If the person you are calling in China also uses the same app and has a stable internet connection, these calls are often free of charge. The best and cheapest method will depend on your individual calling habits and the availability of internet access for both you and the recipient.What time is it in China when I want to call from the UK?
China operates on a single time zone, China Standard Time (CST), which is GMT+8. This means that when it's midday (12:00 PM) in London, it's 8:00 PM in China. To calculate the time difference, simply add 8 hours to the current time in the UK. However, the UK observes British Summer Time (BST) from late March to late October, during which the time difference is only 7 hours. So, during BST, when it's midday in London, it's 7:00 PM in China.
Therefore, the best time to call China from the UK depends on what time zone the UK is in, and your preferences. Calling China during their morning hours (8:00 AM to 12:00 PM CST) would likely be well-received, but consider that this translates to midnight to 4:00 AM GMT or 1:00 AM to 5:00 AM BST in the UK. Alternatively, calling during China's afternoon or early evening (1:00 PM to 6:00 PM CST) means calling between 5:00 AM and 10:00 AM GMT, or 6:00 AM and 11:00 AM BST. To be absolutely sure, you can use online time zone converters to accurately determine the current time in both locations before making your call. Simply search for "time difference UK to China" and enter the current time in the UK to find the corresponding time in China. This ensures you're not calling at an inconvenient hour.Do I need to consider any cultural etiquette when phoning China?
Yes, being mindful of Chinese cultural etiquette when making phone calls can significantly improve communication and foster positive relationships. Simple considerations like timing your call appropriately, using polite language, and showing respect for seniority can make a significant difference in how your call is received.
When phoning China, be aware of the time difference. It's crucial to avoid calling at inconvenient hours, such as very early in the morning or late at night in China. Also, be prepared to state your purpose clearly and concisely. While small talk is appreciated in some Western cultures, Chinese business communication often prioritizes efficiency. Clearly outlining the reason for your call allows the recipient to understand your needs quickly and efficiently. Showing respect is paramount. Addressing individuals with appropriate titles (e.g., "Director Wang") if you know them, or using "Mr./Ms./Mrs." followed by their surname if you don't, demonstrates respect. Avoiding slang or overly casual language is also advisable, especially in initial conversations. If speaking to someone in a business context, be patient and allow them to speak without interruption. Even if there's a language barrier, maintaining a calm and respectful tone can greatly improve the interaction. Understanding that indirect communication is sometimes preferred and that "saving face" is important, means being careful not to put someone on the spot or cause embarrassment.What's the best VoIP service for calling China with good quality?
For consistently high-quality VoIP calls to China, consider using services like Skype, WeChat Out, or Vonage. These platforms are generally reliable and offer competitive rates, but performance can fluctuate depending on your internet connection and China's internet regulations.
Several factors influence VoIP call quality to China. China's "Great Firewall" can sometimes interfere with VoIP traffic, leading to call drops or poor audio. Therefore, choosing a provider that has optimized its network for calls to China is crucial. Skype and WeChat Out often perform well because they are widely used in China and have adapted to the local network environment. Vonage, while not as natively integrated, offers reliable call quality through its robust international network infrastructure. Always test different services to see which performs best from your location and with your specific internet setup.
Before committing to a specific service, research their current pricing and any potential restrictions. Call rates to China can vary significantly between providers, and some may offer promotional packages or bundled minutes. Also, it's wise to check for user reviews and feedback specific to calls to China, as experiences can vary widely. Finally, consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) as a supplementary tool. While not always necessary, a VPN can sometimes improve call stability by bypassing potential network throttling or interference.
Will my phone plan charge extra for international calls to China?
Yes, almost certainly your phone plan will charge extra for international calls to China. Standard domestic phone plans rarely include international calling, and if they do, it’s usually limited to specific countries, which often don't include China. You'll need to verify your plan's international calling policy.
To determine the exact charges, check directly with your mobile phone provider. Look for information on their website, in your plan details, or by contacting customer service. They can provide specific rates for calls to China, which are usually charged per minute. Some providers offer international calling add-ons or packages that can reduce the cost of calling China if you anticipate making frequent calls. Alternatively, consider using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services like Skype, WhatsApp, WeChat (which is very popular in China), or Google Voice. These services often offer significantly cheaper rates for international calls to China, or even free calls if both you and the person you're calling are using the same app. Be aware that using these services requires a stable internet connection for both parties involved.Alright, you're all set to dial China! Hopefully, these tips have given you the confidence to connect with friends, family, or business contacts. Thanks for reading, and we hope you found this helpful. Come back soon for more useful guides and travel tips!