How to Call China from the US:
Calling Mobile Phones in China:
- Step 1 : Dial the US Exit Code: Begin by entering 011 to exit the USA.
- Step 2 : Enter China’s Country Code: Next, enter 86, the country code for China.
- Step 3 : Add the Mobile Prefix: Add the mobile number prefix (generally 1).
- Step 4 : Enter the Local Mobile Number: Dial the recipient’s 11-digit mobile number.
Complete Example for China Mobile Call:
011 + 86 + 1 + xxx xxxx xxxx
Dialing Landlines in China
Step 1 : Dial the US Exit Code: Start by dialing 011.
Step 2 : Enter China’s Country Code: Dial 86.
Step 3 : Dial the Area Code: Enter the area code for the particular city (2-4 digits).
Step 4 : Enter the Landline Number: Dial the recipient’s local landline number (generally 7-8 digits).
Complete Example for China Landline Call
011 + 86 + 10 + xxxx xxxx (for Beijing)
Key Takeaways
| Type | Local Format | U.S. Dialing Format | Final Number |
| Landline | (10) XXXX-XXXX | 011+86+10+XXXX-XXXX | 011 86 10 XXXX XXXX |
| Mobile | (1) XXX-XXXX-XXXX | 011+86+1-XXX-XXXX-XXXX | 011 86 1 XXX XXXX XXXX |
Common Area Codes in China
| China | Area codes |
|---|---|
| Beijing | 10 |
| Guangzhou | 20 |
| Shanghai | 21 |
Start Calling China!
Try Vitel Global's virtual phone system for calling.
Time Zone Considerations
China practices China Standard Time (CST), which is 12 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET) in the U.S. Gain knowledge of this time variance when scheduling calls to make sure you're calling at an appropriate hour.
Time zone differences
| U.S. time zones | China (CST) |
|---|---|
| Eastern (ET) | 12 hours ahead |
| Central (CT) | 13 hours ahead |
| Mountain (MT) | 14 hours ahead |
| Pacific (PT) | 15 hours ahead |
Keynote: China does not observe DST, so the time difference remains fixed at UTC+8 (CST - China Standard Time).
Understanding the Basics
How to Call China from the USA: Stepwise Guide
The country code of China is +86, which redirects your call to China’s national telecommunications system. Irrespective of calling through a mobile phone or landline, this code is needed to successfully end the call.
China Area Codes
Awareness of China’s area codes is significant when dialing particular regions within the country. Area codes in China usually vary from 2 to 4 digits, depending on the city or province you're calling. For instance, the Shanghai area code is 21, while the Beijing area code is 10.
Common area codes in China include:
| China | Area codes |
|---|---|
| Beijing | 10 |
| Guangzhou | 20 |
| Shanghai | 21 |
By using the right dialing format and area code, you can successfully call China from the USA for individual or business purposes.
Costs of Calling China from the US
Are Calls to China Costly?
When determining the cost of calling China from the USA, various factors exist. Calls to landlines are cheaper than mobile calls, which can be costlier because of international roaming charges. Moreover, the rates may differ depending on your carrier plan. Basic calling rates may vary from $0.20 to $2.00 per minute, depending on your phone service provider.
Here are some of the affordable or free alternatives to calling China from the US.
- VoIP services like Vitel Global enable you to call through a data connection, which is a wiser option than choosing traditional calls.
- Many service providers also provide international calling plans that offer discounted rates for often calls to China.
Cutting Calling Costs
To reduce the cost of calling China from the USA, consider the below-mentioned tips:
- Use VoIP Services : Services like Vitel Global provide major savings, frequently cutting call costs by up to 70%. These services offer high-quality calls at much lower rates than traditional phone lines.
- International Calling Plans : Various carriers provide particular international calling plans that subsequently cut the per-minute costs for calls to China.
By taking advantage of these cost-saving alternatives, you can make cost-effective and high-quality calls to China without making any holes in your rockets.
Using Technology for Calling China
Should You Utilize Traditional Phone Lines?
Traditional landline calls to China can be costly because of high per-minute rates. They also miss advanced features like call forwarding or video calls. VoIP services provide a cost-effective, more adaptable, and reliable option. VoIP calls are generally lower in cost, particularly for international calls, and offer extra features like video calls and call recording.
Benefits of Virtual Phone Numbers
A virtual phone number imparts you a local presence in China, enabling easy communication without international fees. It’s an appropriate alternative for businesses and individuals who often call China.
For Businesses : Virtual numbers build a local presence, enhancing customer trust.
For Individuals : Remain connected with friends or family in China without costly rates.
Virtual numbers help cut costs and improve communication.
Using VoIP Services
VoIP services like Vitel Global are cost-effective and adaptable for calling China. They provide transparent calls at lower rates and come with features like video calls and voicemail.
Pros of VoIP
Affordable : More cost-effective than traditional phone calls.
High-quality : Consistent data connection ensures clear calls.
Additional features : voicemail, video calls, and more.
Cons of VoIP
Internet dependency : Needs a stable data connection.
Possible issues : Restricted data access infrastructure in some areas.
VoIP offers a convenient and cost-effective solution for often calling China.
To conclude
Calling China from the USA is a straightforward procedure. Just practice these simple steps: Enter the US exit code (011), then enter China's country code (+86), and at the end, the local phone number. Consider that charges can vary based on
- Your provider
- The type of call
- And whether you’re utilizing a landline or mobile phone.
Discover cost-effective alternatives like VoIP services (e.g., Vitel Global) to make international calls more affordable. Advanced technologies and tools can improve your communication experience, making calling China from the US more appropriate and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How do I call China from the USA?
To call China, enter 011 (US exit code) + 86 (China's country code) + the local phone number.
-
Is it free to call China from the US?
VoIP services like Vitel Global can provide free calls when linked to a data connection, but traditional calls may include charges.
-
Can I utilize my mobile plan to call China?
Yes, most mobile carriers provide international calling plans, but you’ll be required to verify with your provider for charges.
-
How do international charges work for calling China?
Charges usually rely on your
Service provider
The type of call (landline, mobile, or VoIP)
And whether you have an international calling plan.
-
What is the country code for China?
The country code for China is +86, which you are required to dial prior to the local phone number when calling from the US.
