Switched Long Distance, simply stated, is long distance service that is assigned by the local carrier’s switching equipment. The service uses the same lines on which local calls are transported. Your local phone company assigns the PIC code (Primary Interchange Carrier code) of the long distance carrier your select.
When businesses contract for local service, they are asked to select a long distance carrier. You must select a long distance carrier or the local phone company will select one for you. When they do, they have the option to use any tariffed rate. In some cases the long distance rates can be extremely extensive. We have seen continental U.S. rates in excess of $5.00 per minute. Since usage is billed on actual minutes, the charges can accrue quickly before the issue is discovered and identified. In most cases the business will only be able to negotiate a small portion as a refund.
While there can be some pitfalls to watch for, switched long distance is usually a company’s best solution. Carriers Choice represents several switched long distance companies that provide quality and cost effective service. Contact us today to determine the best switched long distance service for your company.