How Do You Choose a VoIP Provider?

Now that you have made the decision to "Go VoIP", you should consider several factors prior to signing that service contract. Choosing a VoIP provider is like choosing a car - education and a bit of common sense go a long way in making the right purchase!

Factors to Consider

Quality - Check online reports on the satisfaction of other customers with the quality of service. How clear are their calls? The company can tell you one thing, but customers will tell you the truth. If possible have someone call you on a phone with that carrier's service. Call customer service and request a call back on a phone using their VoIP product. Packet8 will do that, so should other carriers.

Although quality has increased in leaps and bounds over the last several years, some carriers have been quality than others...for a discussion on what affects quality read our discussion on VoIP Quality

Monthly Charges you can expect to pay between $25-$50 for local and long distance service. Are taxes included or billed separately? What options do you have for billing? Don't expect to receive a paper bill by the Post Office with any carrier. Do expect to be credit card or debit card billed each month. VoIP is an internet based phone service, no paper bills or checks. If that's your hang up - VoIP is not for you and you can move on.

Portability - Most carriers now allow you to bring your phone number with you. This is called "portability" and something you should be sure of before joining. Although VoIP providers won't charge you for this service, your local phone company will. Another way they can "punish you" for moving to another provider. What a messy divorce partner they are!

911 Emergency became part of most quality carriers in 2006. Not all carriers give it away though and it may be an added charge each month. Make sure you understand how the VoIP provider handles 911 - look for enhanced service where you are not required to repeat your name, address and so forth each time you call. This will not be valid when you travel.

Check International Rates if you will be calling overseas frequently. Rates vary with the carriers. Some carriers, like Packet8 offer Global Plans for unlimited global calling.

Finally, Money Back Guarantee is a critical factor. Chamberlain Communications does not offer any VoIP provider's service without a Money Back Guarantee. It should be a given for your choice of provider as well.

Call or Contact us and we'll walk you through it!