Ever encountered a phone number with the mysterious +86 prefix and wondered, “Where in the world does that lead?” Unveiling the secrets behind the +86 code unlocks a world of communication possibilities, connecting you to the vast and dynamic nation of China. This comprehensive guide delves into the significance of the +86 code, exploring dialing procedures, navigating incoming calls, and essential tips for making international calls to and from China.
Demystifying +86: More Than Just a Number
Officially designated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the +86 code serves as the international calling code for mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau. This unique identifier acts as a bridge, allowing you to connect with phone numbers across these regions. When placing a call from outside this area, you simply need to dial the “+” symbol followed by 86 before the local phone number.
For instance, imagine you’re a business owner in Toronto (exit code 011) calling a potential partner in Shanghai (area code 21). To reach them, dial 011 + 86 21 + local phone number (e.g., 18912345678).
Beyond the Code: Decoding the Structure of Chinese Phone Numbers
Understanding Chinese phone numbers goes hand-in-hand with mastering the +86 code. Here’s a breakdown of a typical Chinese phone number structure:
- +86: The international country code for China
- Area Code (2-4 digits): This code identifies a specific geographic location within China. Major cities like Beijing (10) and Shanghai (21) have shorter area codes, while smaller towns may have longer ones. Knowing the area code can be helpful in pinpointing the origin of an incoming call or targeting a specific region when calling abroad.
- Local Phone Number (7-8 digits): This unique A keyword check is a systematic number assigned to a specific phone line within the designated area.
Conquering Calls to China: A Step-by-Step Guide
Calling China from abroad is a simple process. Here’s a user-friendly guide to follow:
- Exit Code: Begin your international call by dialing your country’s exit code. Common exit codes include 011 (North America), 00 (most European countries), and 0 (Australia).
- +86: Follow the exit code with +86, the country code for China.
- Area Code: Input the relevant area code for the city or region you’re calling.
- Local Phone Number: Dial the remaining 7-8 digits of the local phone number.
Example: Connecting with a friend in Shenzhen (area code 755) from the United Kingdom (exit code 00): Dial 00 + 86 755 + local phone number (e.g., 13809876543).
The Incoming Call with +86: Identifying the Source
If you receive a call with the +86 prefix, it signifies an incoming call originating from China. However, narrowing down the exact location requires additional information like the area code. Here are some tools to help you identify the origin of a +86 call:
- Online Phone Number Lookup Services: Several websites allow you to search for phone numbers based on the area code, potentially revealing the city or region.
- Reverse Phone Directory Apps: Mobile apps specializing in reverse phone number searches can sometimes provide details about the caller’s location.
Important Note: Exercise caution with unsolicited calls with the +86 code, especially those offering suspicious deals or claiming to be from government agencies. It’s best free international text message app not to engage with such calls and to report them to your phone service provider if necessary.
Navigating Calls Within China: Keeping it Simple
When making calls within China, you typically won’t need the +86 prefix. Simply dial the area code followed by the local phone number. For instance, dialing 21 12345678 would connect you to the same number in Shanghai mentioned earlier, without the need for the international code.
Exploring China’s Mobile Landscape: Staying Connected While You Roam
China boasts a robust and advanced mobile phone network with extensive coverage throughout the country. Major network operators like China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom provide a wide range of mobile phone services. If you’re traveling to China, consider purchasing a local SIM card from one of these carriers. This will provide you with affordable calling rates and mobile data access. Allowing you to stay connected with loved ones back home or navigate your travels with ease.
