Common dialing errors/reasons why an international call won't go through
Drop that trunk code!*
If you are given a number that starts with zero you must drop this starting digit. The zero is a so called Trunk Code used mostly for dialing within a certain country.
For example, if you are calling from the UK to Bucharest, Romania and the number you are given is 021 ??? ????:
- the wrong way to dial: 00 + 40 + 021 ??? ????
- the right way to dial: 00 + 40 + 21 ??? ????
*An exception to this rule is Italy where geographic area codes start with zero.
Lines blocked for international calls
Most telephone service providers (fixed and wireless) provide the option to block international calling. Some even have this as a default feature. So, before trying to place a direct international call make sure you are permitted to do it.
Using a VoIP (Internet phone) connection?
A feature offered by some VoIP service providers is to call internationally WITHOUT DIALING 011 FIRST. Having this feature turned on usually means that you must leave out the 011 Exit Code or your will not be able to dial out.