If you dial the entire number to place a long distance call it is called direct dial. Dialing the phone number directly can give you the best rate on your long distance or international call.
When an operator helps you place your call it is an operator-assisted call. This will always cost more because of the "convenience" of the service. The cost of this convenience could be a dollar or more per minute for the entire call. That would ruin any savings you might have had with a good plan. Always dial your destination directly for lower rates to save money.
Never use an operator when making an international call unless it is an absolute emergency. You will be shocked when you receive the bill. Obviously for every rule there are exceptions like: collect calls, person-to-person and third party billings. But whenever possible use dial direct or use a dial around service.
When using an operator to place a call, here are some helpful tips:
The best way to place your call is to dial "0" followed by the number you wish to call, such as 0-987-654-3210. This will help make the connection faster. This method could be less expensive depending upon the carrier.
The Standard way is to dial "0" or "00" for international calls and tell the operator the number you wish to call and any special instructions such as collect or person-to-person.
Click here and view Dialuno's cheap long distance plans.
Click here and view Dialuno's cheap International rates.