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How to Use the E.164 Format for Phone Numbers

  • Updated

The E.164 format allows you to standardise your phone numbers to ensure your calls and SMS connect properly worldwide. In this guide, you will learn how to correctly format your numbers to avoid connection errors and optimise your Ringover integrations.

 

1. Understanding E.164 format structure

The E.164 format is the international numbering standard defined by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). It enables phone systems to correctly route your calls and SMS between different countries and carriers.

A number in E.164 format can contain up to 15 digits and consists of:

  • The + sign (indicates an international number)
  • The country code (1 to 3 digits, e.g. 33 for France)

  • The national number (without the leading 0 or separators)

     

2. Applying formatting rules

To adapt your existing numbers to the E.164 standard, follow these simple instructions:

  1. Enter the + sign right at the beginning.
  2. Enter the corresponding country code (e.g. 33 for France, 44 for the UK, 34 for Spain).
  3. Add the phone number, removing the first digit (usually 0).
  4. Remove any spaces, hyphens, full stops, or brackets.

Here are a few conversion examples:

  • France : 06 12 34 56 78 becomes +33612345678
  • United Kingdom : 020 7123 4567 becomes +442071234567
  • Spain : 91 234 5678 becomes +34912345678
💡 Tip: Take the time to check the correct country code and associated area code to ensure your call reaches the right recipient.

 

3. Avoiding common mistakes

To ensure universal compatibility across all telecommunications systems, make sure to avoid these common mistakes.

⚠️ Important: Never keep the leading 0 or special characters:
  • Do not forget the + at the beginning (e.g. 33612345678 ❌)
  • Do not keep the 0 from the national code (e.g. +330612345678 ❌)
  • Do not add separators (e.g. +33 (0)6 12-34-56-78 ❌)

 

4. Maximising the efficiency of your Ringover tools

Systematic use of this international standard is essential to get the most out of your Ringover tools:

  • Call and SMS reliability : Your outbound communications work properly, regardless of the destination country.
  • CRM and API integrations : Your customer files synchronise without duplicates across your business tools.
  • Data standardisation : Your contact directories remain clean and easy to import.

 

🎉 You now know how to format your phone numbers in E.164 format and can communicate internationally without any interruptions!