Phone numbers in Reply must follow a standard format so the system can recognize and process them correctly, especially for calling and messaging features. In this article, you will learn about different phone number formats and how to use the E.164 standard to ensure calls and SMS are delivered successfully.
There are several formats for phone numbers: local, domestic, and international. For example:
Number type | Example |
Local | 754-3010 |
Domestic | (541) 754-3010 |
International | +1-541-754-3010 |
The domestic phone number format can be used for calls within the same country as your rented phone number. For example, if you rented a US number, you do not need to add +1 to recipient numbers from the US.
However, we recommend using E.164 formatting for all prospect phone numbers in Reply. This is an internationally recognized standard phone number format that will help to ensure the deliverability of calls and SMS messages across the globe.
How does E.164 work?
Starts with a plus sign (+): This replaces the international call prefix (like 011 in the US).
Country Code: 1 to 3 digits identifying the country (e.g., 1 for the US, 44 for the UK).
National Destination Code (NDC): Often called the area code.
Subscriber Number: The local phone number.
Maximum Length: The entire number (excluding the plus sign) can be up to 15 digits.
š”Note that you cannot use dashes (-), parentheses (), spaces, or any other punctuation in an E.164 formatted phone number.
For example, hereās a US-based number in standard local formatting: (415) 555-2671.
Hereās the same phone number in E.164 formatting: +14155552671
E.164 Local numbers:
In some countries, local dialing may require a leading 0 before the subscriber number. When using E.164 formatting, this leading 0 should usually be removed.
For example, hereās a UK-based number in standard local formatting: 020 7183 8750.
Hereās the same phone number in E.164 formatting: +442071838750.
š”Note that only the following symbols are allowed in the phone number field: +, ( ), and -.