How to Dial German Phone Numbers from Outside Germany

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If you want to call Germany from abroad, just follow these steps:

1. Dial your international exit code.
2. Add Germany’s calling code (+49).
3. Skip the leading zero in the area or mobile code.
4. Enter the rest of the German phone number.

Many people make mistakes when calling Germany. They often use the wrong exit code or dial the German phone number with the zero in the area code. For example, to call Germany from the US, dial:
011 49 30 1234567 (for a Berlin landline).

You need to know the difference between calling German landlines and mobile numbers. Landlines use area codes, while mobiles have specific prefixes. Always drop the leading zero when you dial German phone numbers. If you skip a step or add the zero, your call may not connect. Following these steps makes calling Germany easy.

Key Takeaways

• Always start your call with your country’s exit code, then dial Germany’s country code 49, and drop the leading zero from the German area or mobile code.
• Use the correct area code for landlines or the mobile prefix for cell phones, and double-check the number to avoid common mistakes that block your call.
• Consider using VoIP apps or unlimited calling plans to save money on calls to Germany, especially if you call frequently.

Germany Calling Code and Dialing Steps

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Exit Code and Country Code

When you want to call Germany from another country, you need to start with the right exit code. This code lets you make international calls from your country. After the exit code, you add the country code for Germany. The country code for Germany is 49. Here’s a quick look at the exit codes for some major countries:

So, if you call Germany from the US, you dial 011 first, then 49. This is the start of every international call to Germany.

German Phone Number Format

German phone numbers have a special format. You see area codes that can be 2 to 5 digits long. The local German phone number follows the area code. For example, Berlin uses 30, and Hamburg uses 40. The total length of a German phone number, including the area code and subscriber number, can be up to 11 digits. Mobile numbers in Germany start with 15, 16, or 17. Here’s how you dial a Hamburg landline from the US:

To call Hamburg (area code 40) from the US, dial:
011 49 40 6060606

This phone number format helps you reach both landlines and mobiles when calling Germany.

Dropping the Trunk Code

You must drop the leading zero (trunk code) from the area code or mobile prefix when making international calls to Germany. The zero is only for calls inside Germany. If you include it, your call might not go through. For example, if the local German phone number is 040 6060606, you dial 49 40 6060606 for international calls. Always remember to skip the zero after the country code for Germany. This rule applies to all German phone numbers, whether you call a landline or a mobile.

Tip: If you forget to drop the zero, your call may fail or reach the wrong person. Always check the number before you dial German phone numbers from abroad.

How to Call Germany: Landlines and Mobiles

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Calling German Landlines

You want to reach someone at their home or office in Germany? You need to know how to call a landline number in Germany from your country. The process is simple if you follow each step. Here’s how to call a landline number in Germany from the United States:

1. Dial the US exit code: 011. If you use a mobile phone, you can enter the plus sign (+) instead.
2. Enter Germany’s country code: 49.
3. Dial the area code for the city you want, but leave out the leading zero. For example, Berlin is 30, Hamburg is 40, and Munich is 89.
4. Enter the local number.

For example, if you want to call a landline in Hamburg, you dial:
011 49 40 1234567

If you use a mobile phone, you can dial:
+49 40 1234567

This dialing sequence works for all German landlines. Always remember to drop the zero from the area code. If you forget, your call might not go through. This is the most important part of how to call a landline in Germany.

Tip: Double-check the area code and make sure you skip the zero. This helps your international call reach the right person in Germany.

You might wonder about the cost of calling Germany. Here’s a quick look at some common plans and their rates for international calls to German landlines:

Calls to German mobile numbers usually cost more than landlines. Unlimited plans can save you money if you call Germany often.

Calling German Mobile Numbers

Calling a mobile number in Germany is a little different, but you still use the same basic steps. Mobile numbers in Germany start with prefixes like 15, 16, or 17. Here’s how you do it if you call from the United Kingdom:

1. Dial the UK exit code: 00.
2. Enter Germany’s country code: 49.
3. Dial the mobile prefix, which starts with 1 (for example, 15 or 17).
4. Enter the rest of the mobile number.

For example, to call a mobile number in Germany, you dial:
00 49 15 XXXXXXXX

If you use a mobile phone, you can dial:
+49 15 XXXXXXXX

When calling a mobile number in Germany, always leave out the zero at the start of the mobile prefix. This rule is the same as for landlines. If you want to know how to call a landline in Germany, just use the area code instead of the mobile prefix.

You might ask about the cost of calling a mobile number in Germany. Some providers charge the same rate for landlines and mobiles, especially if you use special international plans. For example, T-Mobile’s Stateside International service lets you call both German landlines and mobiles for free. Other plans may charge more for mobile numbers, so check your provider’s rates before you call.

Major Area Codes in Germany

Germany has thousands of area codes, but you only need to know a few major ones for big cities. Area codes in Germany can be two to five digits long. The largest cities have the shortest codes. Here’s a table with some of the most important area codes:

There are about 5,200 area codes in Germany. Most start with numbers from 02 to 09. In big cities, you see two-digit codes. In smaller towns, the codes can be three to five digits. Mobile phone codes start with 01 and do not show a location. When you call Germany, the area code tells you where the person lives or works.

Common Issues When Calling Germany

Sometimes, international calls to Germany do not go through. You might hear a message saying your call is blocked or restricted. Here are some common reasons:

• Your carrier blocks international calls or has not enabled them on your plan.
• You have a prepaid plan with a low balance.
• The person you call has blocked your number or uses call screening.
• The number you dialed is wrong, or you forgot to drop the zero in the area or mobile code.
• Network problems or delays with number portability.
• German telecom rules block calls that use fake or local German caller IDs to stop fraud.

Note: If your call fails, check your dialing sequence, your account balance, and your provider’s international calling settings. If you still have trouble, contact your service provider for help.

You can save money on international calls to Germany by using internet-based services. Here are some tips:

• Use VoIP apps like KeepCalling, Skype, or Google Voice. These apps let you call Germany over Wi-Fi or mobile data, often at lower rates.
• Some apps offer pay-per-minute rates, while others have monthly plans with included minutes.
• RebTel and Boss Revolution let you call using local numbers or the internet, so you do not need a strong Wi-Fi connection.
• Many apps have savings calculators to help you find the best deal.

If you call Germany often, look for unlimited plans or use VoIP services to keep your costs low. Always compare rates and features before you choose a service.

You can call Germany easily if you follow the right steps. Watch out for these common mistakes:

• Keeping the leading zero in the area code when calling Germany
• Using the wrong exit code for your country
• Mixing up +49 and 0049
• Forgetting to drop the zero in the area code

Before you call, check the number with a service like ClearoutPhone. This tool helps you make sure the Germany number is valid and formatted correctly. Double-check your dialing sequence for a smooth experience.

FAQ

How do you write and dial a German phone number when calling from abroad?

You start with your exit code, then the country code for Germany, drop the zero, and add the local German phone number. This works for both landlines and mobiles.

What should you do if your international call to Germany does not connect?

Check your dialing sequence. Make sure you dropped the zero in the area code. Some providers block international calls, so contact them if you still cannot call Germany.

Can you use the same steps to call Germany from the US and other countries?

Yes, you follow the same steps. Just use your country’s exit code, then the calling code for Germany, and dial the German phone number without the leading zero.

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