Dial Around
You've probably seen the commercials for these services. They allow you to bypass your elected
long distance carrier for any single call. Just dial 10-10-XXX, then the phone number like you
would any other long distance call: 1-Area Code-Number. "XXX" represents a unique 3 digit identifier
for each "10-10" service.
Given current pricing for long distance, the use of dial-around services is almost always a waste of money.
Example: Cost of a dial-around call of various lengths vs. the cost of the same call on a discount home
long distance provider with no monthly fee.
The reason these calls are not good value is the per call surcharge that most have. Take 10-10-220.
They advertise 99 cents for a 15-minute call. That works out to about 6.5 cents a minute. Not the
best rate, but not horrible. However, if you call and get voicemail, or are only calling for a
short conversation--- it is still 99 cents.
Our recommendation is to avoid these services.
For more information on the providers mentioned in the chart, click below.
To find the best long distance plans for your calling needs, click here.
ECG Long Distance
10-10-220
10-10-345
10-10-987
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