FAQ: What does a phone answering service actually cost?
When you run a business, every call matters. Missing one could mean missing a new client, an important update, or a chance to grow. That’s why so many businesses turn to professional phone answering services. But what do they cost and how do you know you’re getting good value?
At SMARTstrat, our pricing is transparent and flexible. Packages start from £39 per month, but most clients choose tailored plans designed to match their actual call volumes, hours of coverage, and service needs. And to give you peace of mind, we also offer a free 7-day trial so you can see exactly what works best for your business before committing.
Why invest in a phone answering service?
Outsourcing your calls isn’t just about saving time. It’s about giving your customers a reliable, professional first impression.
Key benefits include:
• Never missing a call – every enquiry is answered promptly
• Freeing up your time – fewer interruptions so you can focus on your work
• Scaling with ease – cover busy periods or after-hours without hiring staff
• Professional service – callers always speak to a friendly, trained receptionist
The real question is: how much does it cost?
The cost of a phone answering service depends on several factors:
1. Call volume – the number of calls you expect each month
2. Hours of coverage – standard business hours, evenings, weekends, or 24/7
3. Services included – from simple message taking to call transfers, diary
management, or CRM integration
Most providers offer either:
• Monthly packages with a set number of minutes or calls included
• Pay-as-you-go options where you’re billed per minute or per call
• Tiered packages that increase in price with added features
SMARTstrat’s approach to pricing
Our pricing is designed to be clear and fair. Instead of a one-size-fits-all model, we shape a plan that matches your business needs, whether that means higher call volumes, out-of-hours support, or bespoke features.
You only pay for what you need, and nothing you don’t.
With our free 7-day trial, we’ll set everything up to match your processes and systems, giving you a real-world picture of your typical call volumes and the most suitable package for your business.
Choosing the right service
When comparing providers, here are some things to look for:
• Clear and transparent pricing
• Flexibility to scale up or down
• No hidden fees or setup charges
• Friendly, professional call handling
• A free trial so you can test the service
SMARTstrat offers all of the above, so you can be confident you’re making the right
choice.
Next steps
The cost of a phone answering service doesn’t need to be complicated. With SMARTstrat, you get straightforward pricing, packages that flex with your needs, and a free 7-day trial that’s fully set up to fit your business.
