The international phone code 86 is the country code for China, one of the most populous countries in the world. This code is used to dial into China from other countries and is an essential part of international telecommunication. The use of country codes such as 86 facilitates global communication by providing a unique identifier for each country's telephone network.
Structure of the Chinese Phone System
In China, the phone system is structured to include the country code (86), followed by an area code, and then the local phone number. The area codes in China are usually 2-3 digits long and are assigned based on geographical locations. For example, the area code for Beijing is 10, while Shanghai uses 21. Understanding the structure of the Chinese phone system is crucial for making international calls to China.
Calling China from Abroad
To call China from another country, one must first dial the international access code of the country they are calling from, followed by the country code 86, the area code, and finally the local phone number. For instance, to call a number in Beijing from the United States, one would dial 011 (the U.S. international access code), 86 (China’s country code), 10 (Beijing’s area code), and then the 8-digit local phone number. This process can vary slightly depending on the country from which the call is being made due to differences in international access codes.
| Country | International Access Code |
|---|---|
| United States | 011 |
| United Kingdom | 00 |
| Australia | 0011 |
Mobile Phone Codes in China
In addition to landline phones, China also has a vast mobile phone network. Mobile numbers in China start with 1, followed by a 3-digit carrier code, and then an 8-digit subscriber number. The most common mobile carrier codes in China are 130-139 and 150-159 for China Mobile, 131, 132, 145, 155, and 156 for China Unicom, and 133, 1349, 153, 180, and 181 for China Telecom. When calling a mobile number in China from abroad, the process is similar to calling a landline, except the mobile number is used instead of the area code and landline number.
Special Considerations
When making international calls to China, there are a few special considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, China spans a vast geographical area and is divided into different time zones, which can affect the timing of calls. Secondly, due to the large population and the economic importance of the country, China’s telephone network can be quite complex, with many different providers and services available. Lastly, international call rates can vary significantly depending on the caller’s location and the service provider used, so it’s always a good idea to check rates before making a call.
For those planning to visit or conduct business in China, understanding the international phone code 86 and how to use it is essential. With the rapid growth of China's economy and its increasing importance on the global stage, effective communication with individuals and businesses in China is more crucial than ever.
What is the international phone code for China?
+The international phone code for China is 86.
How do I call a mobile number in China from abroad?
+To call a mobile number in China from abroad, dial the international access code of the country you are calling from, followed by 86 (China’s country code), and then the mobile number starting with 1, without the need to enter an area code.
Are there any special considerations when calling China from other countries?
+Yes, consider the time difference, the complexity of China’s telephone network, and the potential variability in international call rates when calling China from other countries.
