Both 0120 and 0800 Are Toll-Free Numbers
Numbers starting with 0120 and 0800 are both "caller-pays-nothing" numbers - meaning the caller pays no charges, and the receiving company bears the call costs. For consumers, both are "free to call," but from the company's perspective, there are several important differences between the two.
Many people are aware of the differences between toll-free and Navi Dial numbers, but few consciously distinguish between 0120 and 0800.
History and Characteristics of 0120
0120 was launched in 1985 by NTT under the brand name "Free Dial." As Japan's first toll-free number, it has nearly 40 years of history. The digit sequence "0120" has become synonymous with "free phone number" for Japanese people, with the phrase "0120-XXX-XXX" frequently used in TV commercials.
The 0120 number format is "0120 + 6 digits" for a total of 10 digits. While 6 digits theoretically allow 1 million combinations, the actual number of available numbers is fewer, and popular numbers (those easy to create wordplay with) were claimed early on. The marketing impact of wordplay numbers is significant, and memorable numbers like "0120-444-444" are valuable corporate assets.
Why 0800 Was Created
0800 was introduced in 2001 as a successor to 0120. The primary reason was the exhaustion of 0120 numbers. With only 6 digits (1 million numbers), 0120 could not keep up with corporate demand. 0800 uses "0800 + 7 digits" for a total of 11 digits, providing 10 million possible combinations - ten times the number space of 0120, resolving the exhaustion problem.
Like 0120, 0800 numbers are toll-free for callers. However, since "Free Dial" is a registered trademark of NTT Communications, 0800 numbers offered by other carriers go by different names such as "Free Call" or "Free Phone."
Why Companies Choose Between 0120 and 0800
The Recognition Gap
The greatest strength of 0120 is its overwhelming recognition. The association "0120 = free" is deeply ingrained in Japanese consumers, who instantly understand they can call for free just by seeing 0120. In contrast, 0800 has lower recognition, and some consumers wonder "Is 0800 free or paid?"
For this reason, companies that promote phone numbers through TV commercials and advertising tend to prefer 0120. The ability for consumers to instantly judge "it's free" lowers the barrier to calling.
Number Availability
0120 numbers are increasingly exhausted, making it difficult to obtain preferred numbers. Numbers with good wordplay potential are almost entirely taken. 0800 numbers have a larger number space, making it easier to obtain numbers close to your preference.
Cost Differences
Call rates for 0120 and 0800 vary by carrier and plan but generally show no significant difference. However, 0120 numbers carry "brand value," so maintenance fees may be set higher than 0800 in some cases. When considering toll-free number business applications, balance cost against recognition.
What Consumers Should Know
Some 0120 Numbers Don't Accept Mobile Calls
Some 0120 numbers are configured to reject calls from mobile phones. This is a cost-reduction measure by companies, since mobile calls cost more than landline calls. If you've experienced "calling 0120 but it won't connect," this setting may be the cause. 0800 numbers more commonly accept mobile calls by default.
Incoming Calls from 0120 May Be Spam
Calls from 0120 numbers may be sales calls from companies. As explained in how to handle calls from unknown numbers, assuming "it's from 0120 so it's safe" is risky. While 0120 numbers are obtained by companies, aggressive sales firms and telemarketers also use them.
If you receive a call from an unknown 0120 number, don't call back immediately - first search the number to identify the caller. Learning about the behind-the-scenes of phone sales from recommended business books is also worthwhile.
The Future of 0120 and 0800
With the spread of chat support and web forms, phone inquiries are trending downward overall. However, the desire to "talk directly to someone on the phone" remains strong, especially among older demographics, and 0120/0800 numbers won't become unnecessary anytime soon. While companies without main phone numbers are increasing, customer support phone lines remain an important touchpoint.
As a consumer, knowing that both 0120 and 0800 are "free to call" is sufficient. Regardless of which number type, you can make inquiries without worrying about call charges.
How to Identify and Make the Most of 0120 and 0800 Numbers
When you receive a call from an unknown 0120 or 0800 number, knowing how to determine whether it's a legitimate business call or potentially spam or fraud provides peace of mind.
Search the Number to Identify the Caller
You can look up incoming 0120 and 0800 numbers using our phone number search feature to identify the caller. Many companies list their toll-free numbers on their official websites, so searching the number can identify the company name and service. User reviews sharing experiences like "it was a sales call" or "it was a survey" are also available, so make it a habit to always search before calling back.
Judging Company Credibility from the Number
Having a 0120 or 0800 number doesn't automatically make a company trustworthy. While obtaining toll-free numbers requires some screening, aggressive sales companies and telemarketers also use 0120 numbers. Don't judge credibility by the number alone - search the company name to verify their official website, address, and business details. See also how to handle calls from unknown numbers.
Relationship with Unlimited Calling Plans
If you have an unlimited calling plan on your mobile phone, calls to 0120 and 0800 numbers are free regardless, so there's no need to worry about whether they're covered by your plan. However, Navi Dial (0570) numbers are excluded from unlimited plans, so be careful not to confuse 0120/0800 with 0570. Simply checking the first 4 digits instantly tells you whether the call is free (0120/0800) or paid (0570).
Connecting from IP Phones (050)
There are cases where 050 IP phones cannot connect to 0120 or 0800 numbers. This is due to company-side settings - some companies configure their systems to reject calls from IP phones. If you can't connect from an IP phone, try calling from a mobile or landline, or check the company's official website for their regular number (starting with 03 or 06) and call directly.
Smart Use of 0120 and 0800 Numbers
Here are tips for consumers to make smart use of 0120 and 0800 numbers. When you have questions about products or services, actively use toll-free numbers. Especially before purchasing expensive items, calling directly can provide information not available on websites alone. For complaints and return consultations, toll-free numbers let you take sufficient time to explain without worrying about charges. However, some 0120 numbers have limited operating hours, so check the company's official website for reception times beforehand for a smoother experience.