Frequently Asked Questions about Free Dial (0120)
Free Dial numbers start with 0120 and bill the call to the receiver instead of the caller. They are operated by NTT Communications and are commonly used by Japanese companies for customer support and inquiry hotlines, allowing callers to dial in at no cost.
FAQ (5 items)
What is Free Dial (0120)?
Free Dial is an inbound-billed phone service operated by NTT Communications. When you call a number starting with 0120, the call charges are billed to the subscriber on the receiving end.
- Numbering format: 0120 + 6 digits, for a total of 10 digits.
- Caller charges: free.
- Recipient charges: per-minute call rate plus a monthly base fee.
"Free Dial" is a registered trademark of NTT Communications.
What is the difference between 0120 and 0800?
Both ranges offer toll-free (caller-free) numbers, but they differ in a few ways.
- 0120: NTT Communications' "Free Dial." 10 digits (0120 + 6 digits).
- 0800: "Free Call" and similar services from various carriers. 11 digits (0800 + 7 digits).
- Recognition: 0120 is more widely known among the general public.
- Availability: 0120 is running short, while 0800 numbers are easier to obtain.
For the caller, both ranges are equally free of charge.
Can I call Free Dial numbers from a mobile phone?
Whether a Free Dial number accepts mobile calls depends on the subscriber's configuration.
- If mobile callers are allowed: the call is free.
- If mobile callers are blocked: you will hear an announcement that the number cannot be reached.
When mobile access is disabled, companies usually publish an alternative number for mobile users (often a Navi Dial 0570 number) on their website.
Should I call back a missed Free Dial call?
Calls from 0120 numbers usually come from a business, but a few caveats apply.
- It may be a service you already use or a recent purchase contacting you.
- It could also be a sales call or a market survey.
- Look up the number on this site to check user reports before returning the call.
Returning a Free Dial call is free of charge, but if anything seems off, confirm the number on the company's official website before calling back.
What happens if I call a Free Dial number outside business hours?
The behavior depends on how the subscriber has configured their service.
- An out-of-hours announcement plays, often listing the regular hours.
- The call is forwarded to voicemail.
- The phone rings but no one answers.
- The call is forwarded to a different desk or alternate number.
Most companies publish their hours on their website, so checking in advance saves time.