How To Call Out Of The Usa A Step By Step Guide To International Phone Calls

Making an international phone call from the United States doesn’t have to be confusing or expensive. With the right approach, you can connect with friends, family, or business contacts overseas clearly and affordably. Whether you're using a traditional landline, mobile phone, or internet-based service, understanding the correct dialing format and available options is key. This guide walks you through everything you need to know—from country codes to cost-effective calling apps—so you can make seamless international calls with confidence.

Understanding International Dialing Format

To place a successful international call from the U.S., you must follow a standardized dialing sequence recognized globally. The structure ensures your call routes correctly across networks and national boundaries.

The standard format is:

1. Exit Code (011): This signals your phone carrier that you’re placing an international call from the U.S.
2. Country Code: A 1–3 digit number unique to the destination country (e.g., 44 for the UK, 33 for France).
3. Area or City Code: Often begins with a 0 locally, but omit the leading zero when calling internationally.
4. Local Phone Number: The recipient’s actual number as used within their country.

For example, calling a London number (020 7946 0123) from the U.S. would be dialed as: 011 44 20 7946 0123.

Tip: Always double-check country codes before dialing. Misentering a digit can lead to wrong numbers or high charges.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making an International Call

Follow this practical sequence to ensure your international call connects smoothly every time.

1. Confirm the recipient’s full number in local format. Ask them to provide it written exactly as it appears on their phone or bill.
2. Look up the correct country code. Use trusted sources like the ITU website or your carrier’s international directory.
3. Omit any local prefixes (like 0) from the area code when dialing internationally.
4. Dial 011 (U.S. exit code), followed by the country code, area code, and local number without pauses.
5. Wait for connection. Some international lines take longer to ring through due to routing delays.

Example: Calling Paris, France
Local number: 01 40 20 30 40
Correct international dialing: 011 33 1 40 20 30 40

Cost-Saving Options for International Calls

Traditional carriers often charge steep per-minute rates for international calls. Fortunately, modern alternatives offer clarity and savings.

Method	Average Cost	Sound Quality	Best For
Mobile Carrier (Direct Dial)	$0.25–$2.00/min	Good	Occasional short calls
Prepaid International Calling Cards	$0.05–$0.20/min	Fair to Good	Budget-conscious users
VoIP Apps (Skype, WhatsApp, Viber)	Free–$0.10/min	Excellent	Regular callers, video needs
International Calling Plans	Flat monthly fee ($5–$25)	Very Good	Frequent international contact

“VoIP services have revolutionized cross-border communication. For under $10 a month, users can maintain crystal-clear voice quality at near-zero marginal cost.” — Dr. Alan Reeves, Telecommunications Analyst, MIT Media Lab

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced callers make errors that result in failed connections or unexpected charges. Stay aware of these pitfalls:

• Forgetting to dial 011: Without the U.S. exit code, your call won’t leave the country.
• Keeping the leading zero in area codes: In many countries, local numbers start with 0, but this is dropped internationally.
• Using outdated country codes: Some nations have changed codes; verify with updated resources.
• Calling during peak hours: Rates may be higher, and network congestion can affect quality.
• Assuming all apps are free: While WhatsApp and FaceTime Audio are free over Wi-Fi, some VoIP apps charge for landline/mobile calls abroad.

Tip: Save frequently called international numbers in your phone with the full international format (including + instead of 011).

Real-World Example: Calling Family in Manila

Sarah, a nurse in Chicago, calls her mother in Manila every Sunday. Her mom’s number is listed locally as 0917 123 4567. Initially, Sarah tried dialing 011 63 0917 123 4567—but the call failed repeatedly.

After consulting her carrier, she learned that mobile numbers in the Philippines do not include the leading zero when dialed internationally. She corrected the number to 011 63 917 123 4567, and the call connected instantly.

Later, Sarah switched to using Viber Out, which reduced her monthly calling costs from $30 to less than $5 while improving audio quality. She now uses Wi-Fi at home to avoid data charges.

Checklist: Preparing for Your International Call

• ☐ Verify the recipient’s full phone number in local format
• ☐ Look up the correct country code (e.g., +49 for Germany)
• ☐ Remove any leading zeros from area or mobile codes
• ☐ Choose your calling method (carrier, app, or calling card)
• ☐ Check time zone differences to avoid calling too early or late
• ☐ Test your connection if using VoIP (microphone, speakers, Wi-Fi)
• ☐ Keep a backup method in case the primary fails

FAQ

Can I use * (star) codes or # (hash) commands during international calls?

Most special phone functions like *67 (private number) work only within the U.S. Once you’ve dialed 011, these codes usually won’t function. If privacy is needed, check whether your VoIP app offers anonymous calling features.

Why does my call go to voicemail immediately?

This could mean the number is disconnected, out of service, or blocked. It may also occur if the recipient’s phone is off or in an area with poor coverage. Try calling at a different time or confirm the number with the recipient directly.

Is it cheaper to text or call internationally?

In most cases, texting via messaging apps (iMessage, WhatsApp, Telegram) is free over Wi-Fi and avoids SMS fees. Traditional international SMS through carriers can cost $0.25 or more per message. For long conversations, voice calls via VoIP are typically more efficient and economical.

Final Tips for Reliable International Communication

Timing matters. Calling during off-peak hours—not just locally but in the destination country—can improve connection stability and reduce costs. Many VoIP providers offer discounted rates during evenings or weekends.

If you make regular international calls, consider subscribing to a flat-rate plan from providers like AT&T International Long Distance, Verizon World Plan, or third-party services like Rebtel or Google Voice International. These plans often include hundreds of minutes to select countries for a low monthly fee.

Also, remember that emergency services cannot be reached via VoIP apps or calling cards. In urgent situations abroad, use a direct mobile or landline connection.

Conclusion

Making an international call from the U.S. is simple once you understand the structure and tools available. From mastering exit codes to leveraging affordable VoIP platforms, small adjustments can lead to clearer calls and lower bills. Whether you're staying in touch with loved ones or managing global business relationships, the ability to communicate effectively across borders is within reach.

🚀 Start today: Update one international contact in your phone with the correct dialing format, test the connection, and explore one cost-saving app. Small steps lead to smarter, stress-free global calling.