Toll Free Numbers For Local SEO or Organic

[Goku770]

Hello,

I have a couple questions

1. Does having a toll free number, 888, or 866 number instead of using a phone number with a local area code (cell phone number) affect local rankings?

I have heard mixed opinions on this. I think I heard somthing about a google number being bad.

2. Will having a redirect number that redirects to my cell phone affect local rankings?

 

[Linda Buquet]

1) Might depend somewhat on business type.

For instance a hotel has a reason to have 800#. But most truly local businesses don't need an 800 cuz all customers are local.

But if for some reason you need to use one I recommend 800 in a graphic on top for customers. Local # in NAP in footer.

2) Guidelines say: "Provide a phone number that connects to your individual business location as directly as possible"

Best to stick to guidelines and not do forwarding number if possible.

 

[Blake Denman]

General consensus is to stick to local land lines.

 

[Rich Owings]

Blake,

I'm curious why you say land lines. I have quite a few SAB clients who use their cellphones as their primary business number.

 

[Goku770]

Ok thank you Linda

 

[Marc L.]

Lynda,

I'm starting a new business (moving company) in a major metropolitan area. I have an 844 toll free number I was going to use for our main number. Do you recommend for nap and citation purposes that I stick with a local number? And keep the 844 number to our trucks and at the top of our site as an image?