How to Make Calls to the USA from Colombia: A Comprehensive Guide

Making international calls, especially from Colombia to the USA, can seem daunting if you’re not familiar with the procedures and options available. With globalization, staying connected is more important than ever, whether it’s for business, family, or personal matters. Fortunately, the process has been simplified with a variety of tools and methods to suit every need, from traditional landline calls to modern, internet-based communication options. This guide will provide a step-by-step approach on how to make calls from Colombia to the USA, how to save money on international calls, and how to choose the best method based on your specific requirements.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make a Call from Colombia to the USA

When dialing internationally, there are a few essential elements to keep in mind. The process varies slightly based on whether you are using a landline, mobile phone, or a digital communication tool. Below is a detailed breakdown of how to make a phone call from Colombia to the United States.

1. Dial the Exit Code for Colombia

The first thing you need to do when dialing internationally is to enter the exit code of the country from which you’re calling. In Colombia, this exit code is 005.

For example, if you’re calling from a Colombian mobile phone, you’ll begin your number with 005.

2. Enter the USA Country Code

Once you’ve dialed the exit code, the next step is to dial the country code for the USA. The country code for the United States is 1.

So, after dialing the exit code, you would then dial 1 for the USA.

3. Add the Area Code for the USA

Next, you need to dial the area code. This is a three-digit number that designates the region or city within the United States that you’re calling. Some area codes in the USA are:

• 212 for New York City
• 312 for Chicago
• 415 for San Francisco

Area codes are an essential part of the dialing process, and each state in the USA has its own set of area codes.

4. Dial the Local Number

After the area code, you’ll dial the local number. This is the specific seven-digit phone number of the person or business you’re trying to reach.

For example, if you are calling a person in New York with the area code 212, and their local number is 555-1234, the full number will look like this: 005-1-212-555-1234.

Example of a Full Dialing Sequence

• For a call from Colombia to a person in New York, USA, the full number would be:
  005-1-212-555-1234.
• For a call from Colombia to a business in Chicago, USA, the full number would be:
  005-1-312-555-5678.

Alternate Method for Mobile Phones

When dialing from a mobile phone, there’s a simpler way to dial. Instead of entering the exit code, you can use the plus sign (+), which automatically signifies the international dialing code. This is especially useful when you’re traveling or using a mobile phone with global roaming capabilities.

For instance, calling the USA from Colombia via mobile would look like this:

• +1-212-555-1234 (New York)
• +1-312-555-5678 (Chicago)

Using Calling Apps for Cost-Effective Communication

In addition to traditional phone lines, many people prefer to use modern technologies like VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) for making international calls. VoIP technology allows you to make voice and video calls over the internet, often at a fraction of the cost of traditional international calls.

Let’s take a look at some of the best calling apps available for making calls to the USA from Colombia.

1. WhatsApp

WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging and calling apps worldwide. It allows you to make free voice and video calls to anyone around the world as long as both parties have an internet connection and the app installed.

• Features:
  • Free voice and video calls.
  • Text messaging and file sharing.
  • Group calling and video conferencing.
  • Requires a stable internet connection.
    
• Ideal For: Personal calls or group chats with friends and family.

To use WhatsApp, you simply need to open the app, select the contact you want to call, and press the call button.

2. Skype

Skype is another widely used platform for making international calls. It allows you to call not only other Skype users for free but also landlines and mobile numbers for a small fee.

• Features:
  • Free calls between Skype users.
  • Paid calls to landlines and mobile numbers.
  • Video calls and instant messaging.
  • Call forwarding and voicemail.
    
• Ideal For: Business calls or when you need to call a number not on Skype.

If you’re calling someone on a landline or mobile number in the USA, you’ll need to have Skype credits, which can be purchased through the app.

3. Google Voice

Google Voice is another excellent option for making international calls. It allows you to make free calls within the USA and provides competitive international rates.

• Features:
  • Free calls within the USA.
  • International calls at competitive rates.
  • Voicemail and text messaging.
  • Integration with Google services.
    
• Ideal For: Both personal and business calls.

With Google Voice, you can link it to your Google account and use it to call landlines or mobile phones in the USA, making it convenient and affordable.

4. Apps Optimized for Colombia-to-USA Calls

For those calling the USA from Colombia, several apps are designed specifically to provide competitive international rates without the need for an internet connection. These apps are ideal for people in Colombia who want to minimize costs while maintaining high call quality.

Talk360:

• Benefits: Talk360 doesn’t require a subscription, and the person you’re calling doesn’t need the app installed on their phone.
• Cost: Offers very competitive rates for international calls.
• Ideal For: People who want to call the USA without relying on a stable internet connection.

Rebtel:

• Benefits: Rebtel allows you to make high-quality calls to the USA without needing an internet connection.
• Cost: Rates vary, but they are generally competitive, especially for calling the USA from Colombia.
• Ideal For: Regions with poor internet connectivity.

mytello:

• Features: Mytello allows users to connect via a local number in Colombia to reduce call costs.
• Example Rate: With Mytello, you can pay approximately $20,0050 COP for around 455 minutes to the USA.
• Ideal For: Cost-conscious callers who want the best value for long-duration calls.

Costs and Rates

The cost of making calls from Colombia to the USA depends on the method you use, the telecom provider, and the country you’re calling. Here’s a breakdown of the different costs for each option.

Telecom Providers

If you’re using a traditional telecom provider in Colombia, such as Claro, Movistar, or T-Mobile, rates will differ based on your service plan.

T-Mobile:

• Without an international plan: Calls may cost up to $3 per minute.
• With a Stateside International Plan: Calls may be free or come at significantly reduced rates.

Claro and Movistar:

• Claro and Movistar offer various international bundles or pay-as-you-go options. Rates depend on your plan, but international bundles are often the most cost-effective.

VoIP Providers

VoIP services like Mytello, Rebtel, and Talk360 offer significantly lower rates compared to traditional telecom providers.

Mytello: With Mytello, you can get 455 minutes to the USA for approximately 17,510 COP, which is an excellent deal compared to standard telecom network rates

Rebtel: Offers competitive rates without requiring an internet connection, making it an excellent choice for users in Colombia who don’t have consistent internet access.

Enhancing Call Quality and Efficiency

No matter which method you choose for making calls, call quality is crucial for maintaining clear communication. Here are a few tips to enhance your calling experience:

• Use Stable Internet: If you’re using a VoIP app, ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection for clear calls. Unstable internet can cause delays, poor sound quality, and disconnections.
• Check Your Equipment: Ensure your microphone and speakers are working properly. External headphones with a microphone often offer better sound quality than built-in phone mics.
• Optimize the Call Environment: Try to make calls in quiet environments with minimal background noise for better clarity.
• Test the Service Before Calling: If you’re trying out a new service, it’s always a good idea to test the app or calling method beforehand to ensure it meets your quality expectations.

FreJun: A Call Automation Solution for Businesses

For businesses making frequent international calls, platforms like FreJun simplify the process through automation and analytics. FreJun’s features streamline the calling experience and make it more efficient.

Explore FreJun’s comprehensive features here

Key Features of FreJun:

• Autodial: Eliminates manual dialing, saving time and reducing human error.
  
• Call Analytics: Tracks the performance of calls, providing valuable insights into team efficiency and identifying areas for improvement.

Access FreJun’s call analytics tools.

• CRM/ATS Integration: Allows you to make calls directly from your CRM or ATS tools, simplifying the workflow.

Learn more about FreJun’s CRM/ATS integration.

• Virtual Numbers: Businesses can acquire local or toll-free numbers to give a more professional image.
• AI Insights: Analyzes call data to help optimize operations, enhance customer interactions, and improve decision-making.

Understand FreJun’s AI-powered capabilities here.

FreJun is a user-friendly solution for businesses looking to streamline their communication systems.

Conclusion

Making calls from Colombia to the USA doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. With the right information and tools, you can ensure that your communication is both efficient and cost-effective. Whether you prefer traditional methods like landline calls, modern apps like WhatsApp and Skype, or more specialized services like FreJun for businesses, you have a variety of options to choose from. Be sure to consider factors such as call quality, cost, and convenience when choosing the best method for you. With the right approach, you can stay connected to your contacts in the USA, no matter where you are in Colombia.

Further Reading: 7 Ways to Streamline Your Recruitment Calls and Enhance Efficiency