Most customers have a primary carrier that handles long distance. This may be one of tier-1 carriers (MCI, SPRINT, AT&T) or one of the many other smaller players in industry. When a customer dials 1+AreaCode+Number, a primary carrier handles the call. However, there is a way to bypass our primary carrier by telling a local switchboard to route a call through another long distance provider. In other words, we can "dial around" our primary long distance carrier. By dialing a "dialaround" access code before entering 1+AreaCode+Number, you effectively route that call through another phone company. The charges may show up as a separate section on your normal phone bill, may come as a separate bill.

Based on this definition, dial-around service actually applies to programs beyond just the 10-10XXX access numbers. Providers which allow you to access their network through a toll free number are also effectively dial-around services as they circumvent your primary long distance carrier. Calling cards are also another form of dial-around service. Most customers pre-select one of the major long distance carriers like MCI, AT&T or Sprint and use them for all long distance calls.

More sophisticated customers pre-select a major carrier but use dial-around for longer international or state-to-state calls. Savings can go anywhere from 30% to 80% depending on destinations. You can use one or more dial around numbers. Its like if you were buying groceries. You can go to one store and buy everything there, or you can go to 2-3 stores and buy selectively based on the best prices. The same with dial around. You may make some calls on your default carrier, some on one dial-around number, some on another dial-around number.

Dialaround Services

If you do not wish to switch your service provider, dial-around is the perfect solution for you - long distance calling that does not require switching lines. By simply dialing a toll free access code, you can make long distance calls and save over 50%!

	CogniDial Toll-Free Dial-Around Outstanding (USA-48 origination) service, featuring LOW International and Interstate rates using dial-around ANI recognition. No per-call surcharge, 6-second billing. Online account management system.
	AccuDial 5.9?/minute Anytime The AccuDial Around solution has all of your alternative long distance problems solved. There are no per call minimums or surcharges. The service offers highly competitive International rates.
	PowerNet Global PowerDial Dial-Around Ride the light of the fiber optic nationwide network of Qwest by PowerNet Global PowerDial dial around service. No need to switch long distance providers with 6.4? per minute state-to-state within US and outstanding International rates.
	FlextelOne Dial-Around Calling Solution SINGLE self-managed account that offers a diverse selection of telecomunication services. ONE time sign-up, ONE account, ONE bill, and you pay only for what you use. 5.9?/minute within USA48. 7.9?/minute from Canada to USA48.
	Kallcents Dial-Around by ITL Kallcents is one of the original toll-free origination products in the world. Offering great International and US rates, with special rate plans for many residents in Washington State.
	IBN Tel Super low USA and International rates! Superior service with ultra-low International and domestic rates. Available throughout most of the continental United States. IBNTel uses a high quality network, so you don't have to substitute call quality for low rates!