What’s the difference between a 085 number and a local area code number?

Are you wondering what’s the difference between a 085 number and a local area code number? Let’s break it down so it all makes sense.​ A 085 number is a non-geographic number in the Netherlands, which means it isn’t tied to any specific city or region.​ You’ll often see companies use 085 numbers when they want to look professional and accessible from anywhere in the country.​On the other hand, a local area code number, like 020 for Amsterdam or 010 for Rotterdam, connects directly to a physical location.​ These numbers are perfect if you want customers to recognize that you’re truly local and easy to reach in their area.​So, whether you’re starting a business or switching phone providers, understanding the difference between a 085 number and a local area code number can help you choose the right type for your needs.​ Think about how you want people to see your business—nationwide reach or local presence? That’s where your choice starts.​

What defines a 085 number versus a local area code number?

Understanding the difference between a 085 number and a local area code number is crucial for any Dutch business or entrepreneur aiming for professionalism, reach, and flexibility.​ These telephone numbers operate under strict protocols defined by the Dutch Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM), but they serve different communication goals and technical needs.​

How a 085 number works in the Dutch telephone network

A 085 number is categorized as a non-geographical number within the national numbering plan of the Netherlands.​ Unlike traditional area codes like 010 for Rotterdam or 020 for Amsterdam, the 085 prefix is not tied to any physical location.​ This means when you use a 085 number, your business projects a national presence rather than a regional one.​

• Geographical independence – Your number stays the same even if you move your office, open new branches, or work remotely.​
• Professional appeal – National companies like insurance firms or tech support desks often use 085 numbers for consistency and to avoid regional bias.​
• Advanced routing – Calls to a 085 number can be flexibly routed to various locations, devices, or departments, including smartphones through VoIP or dedicated business phone systems like those managed with our Flexamedia platform.​
• Scalable for growth – A single 085 series can include hundreds of sequential numbers, which is perfect for expanding teams or integrating call centers.​

The allocation and use of 085 numbers are regulated, and you typically acquire these through certified telecom service providers.​ At Flexamedia, you get the benefit of unlimited calls, setup on three devices, and instant connectivity through our smartphone app.​

What a local area code number really means

A local area code number, such as 040 for Eindhoven or 070 for The Hague, connects your phone identity to a specific city or region in the Netherlands.​ These numbers have historical roots in the analogue telephone era and still resonate with consumers seeking local businesses.​

• Regional trust – Using a local area code can boost trust among clients looking for a nearby supplier, such as a bakery, plumber, or legal practice.​
• Number portability – While you can often keep your local number if you move within the same region, you cannot use a 020 code in Utrecht or a 010 code in Groningen, as the numbering plan is strictly enforced by ACM.​
• Call cost implications – Traditionally, calls to local numbers were cheaper for local callers, though with flat-rate mobile plans, this distinction is fading for many users.​
• Suitable for local targeting – These numbers work well for campaigns or businesses focusing on a city or province.​

At Flexamedia, we provide all Dutch net codes, so your business can benefit from both a local feel and a national image depending on your strategy.​

Key differences between 085 and local area code numbers

The primary distinction centers on location independence and customer perception.​ A 085 number enables you to serve customers nationwide without regional limitations, ideal for SaaS companies, online retailers, and national service desks.​ In contrast, a local area code grounds your business in a specific community.​

• Mobility – 085 numbers offer unparalleled flexibility for remote work, relocations, or nationwide branding, while local codes remain tied to geographic regions.​
• Perception – Some customers prefer calling a recognizable area code, associating it with accessibility and local expertise.​
• Compliance – Dutch telecom law mandates correct usage of number types.​ Using a local area code outside its region violates ACM protocols and can disrupt your business operations.​
• Technical features – Advanced features such as free forwarding to 06 mobile numbers, WhatsApp Business integration, and multi-device setups are commonly included with modern 085 VoIP solutions like ours at Flexamedia.​

Use cases and business scenarios for each number type

The decision between a 085 number and a local area code should align with your market, audience, and growth plans.​

• 085 numbers – Perfect for startups scaling nationally, organizations with distributed teams, and businesses wanting to conceal their actual location or decentralize their call handling.​
• Local area codes – Ideal for locally focused businesses such as medical clinics, tradesmen, or retail stores wanting to emphasize their neighborhood roots.​
• Hybrid strategies – Many businesses opt for both, using 085 for their national presence and local codes for microtargeted marketing or community outreach.​
• Integration – Modern telephone systems enable seamless switching between 085 and local numbers, managed through dashboards and mobile apps provided by platforms like Flexamedia.​

Choosing and setting up your business phone number

When selecting a phone number, consider your customer’s expectations, your growth trajectory, and your preferred technology stack.​ The implementation process involves registration with an approved provider, configuration of call routing and features, and ongoing management through user-friendly software or a dedicated support team.​

• Full feature set – With our service, you enjoy unlimited calling, easy setup on multiple devices, and all-inclusive modules for a fixed monthly fee.​ Everything is monthly cancellable, so your business stays agile.​
• Expert support – Our team helps you integrate WhatsApp Business, free forwarding, and advanced call routing, making your number not just a line but a powerful communication tool.​

For a deeper understanding of the possibilities and to get started, check out 085 nummer aanvragen bij Flexamedia for complete details on acquiring your own 085 number.​ Alternatively, if you want to explore how a national and local number combination can boost your customer reach, let our specialists at Flexamedia guide you to the best solution tailored for your business.​

Why Flexamedia is your partner for professional business numbers

With the latest VoIP technology, intuitive apps, and all Dutch net numbers available, we make it easy for you to maintain both a national and regional footprint.​ Our service is trusted by companies across the Netherlands who demand flexibility, scalability, and premium support.​

• Seamless integration – Whether you need just a 085 number, local codes, or both, you can manage everything from a single dashboard or our mobile app.​
• All modules included – No hidden costs or extras; you get unlimited calls, three device activation, free forwarding, and WhatsApp Business integration as standard.​
• National reach – Operate everywhere in the Netherlands without ever having to change your number as your business grows or evolves.​
• Flexible terms – Monthly contracts ensure you’re never locked in.​ Start small, scale fast, and cancel anytime as your needs change.​

Ready to professionalize your communication and choose the right number type for your business? Visit Zakelijk bellen met een 085 nummer to discover how Flexamedia can help you set up the perfect telephony solution for your company.​

FAQ

1.​ What’s the main difference between an 085 number and a local area code number?

The main difference is that an 085 number isn’t tied to a specific geographic location, while a local area code number is.​ For example, if you use an 085 number for your business, you could be based anywhere in the Netherlands, but a local area code like 020 tells callers you’re in Amsterdam.​ This means 085 numbers are perfect if you want a national presence without being linked to a specific city.​

2.​ Can I use an 085 number if I want to appear more professional?

Absolutely! Many startups and growing businesses pick 085 numbers to project a nationwide image.​ Let’s say you run an online store from Utrecht but want customers from Groningen to Maastricht to feel at home.​ An 085 number makes your company look bigger and more established—like you’re everywhere at once.​

3.​ Are there any call cost differences between 085 numbers and local area code numbers?

Great question! For callers, dialing an 085 number usually costs the same as calling a local area code number from a landline or mobile.​ Both are charged at regular rates, so you won’t scare customers away with hidden fees.​ That’s why 085 numbers are popular with service-based businesses.​

4.​ Can I keep my 085 number if my business moves?

Yes, and that’s a huge benefit! Unlike local numbers (which are linked to a city), 085 numbers travel with you.​ If you move your office from Rotterdam to Eindhoven, your 085 number stays the same—no need to update business cards, websites, or confuse clients.​

5.​ Which is better for small businesses: 085 or local area code numbers?

It depends on your goals.​ If you want to attract local clients and show you’re truly “from around here,” a local area code is ideal.​ But if you plan to grow nationally or want to look more established, go with an 085 number.​ At Flexamedia, we help you choose the best fit to match your vision for your business—just ask us for a free quote!