Can I keep my business number with an AI receptionist?
Yes, you can keep your business number: you forward the calls you don't answer to the receptionist's line, so customers keep ringing the number they already know, or you can take a new local number if you'd rather keep the receptionist separate.
Option 1: keep your number and divert
This is the usual choice. Nothing changes for customers: your number stays on your van, your website and your Google listing. Your phone rings first, and calls you don't pick up in, say, 20 seconds are forwarded to the receptionist's line. You never need to give that line to anyone.
Option 2: a new local number
Some businesses prefer a new number that always goes to the receptionist, perhaps for a new branch, an advert or a second service. You then put the new number out there, and the receptionist answers it straight away.
Why the line has to be checked first
In the UK, phone providers have to register every number to the business using it, even a line that only receives forwarded calls. That's why setting one up asks for your business name and address and can take a short while to approve. Those details go to the phone provider and aren't shown to callers.
Things to check
Before you choose:
- Whether your phone or landline supports divert on no answer.
- Whether your tariff charges for forwarded calls.
- How long you want your phone to ring before it forwards.
- Whether you'd ever want to switch the divert off, for example on quiet days.
Where Pickuply fits
Pickuply offers both routes. 'Keep my number' sets up a Pickuply line behind the scenes, included in your plan, and gives you the divert code. 'Get a new local number' gives you a UK local number to advertise. Every line is checked under UK rules first; we email you when it's ready, usually within a day.
Free to try on a call in your browser. No card needed. Or start without a website.
Questions
Do I lose my number if I cancel?
No. With the divert route your number never moves. Cancel the divert and calls go back to voicemail.
Can I use a mobile number?
Yes. Most UK mobiles support divert on no answer with the **61* code.