Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use 087 Universal?
Simply call the 087 access number, listen to the voice prompt, and key in the complete international number as you would normally dial it starting with 00. That's all. For queries about the billing procedure please go to the "How are my calls billed" frequently asked question
How do I sign up for your services?
To use 087 Universal you do not have to register. You simply dial the 087 access number that allows you to phone your international destination.
Why am I unable to dial certain access numbers?
Check if 087 Universal supports your destination you wish to call. Most fixed line destinations are supported
Are there any administration, subscription or other fees?
All you pay for is the standard off network charge for calling our 087 Universal access number. No registration, prepayment or monthly subscription.
Can I use the 087 universal numbers from payphones?
No, 087 Universal access numbers can only be accessed from a cellphone.
How are my calls billed?
If you’re dialing from a contract cellphone, the call will be deducted from your free bundled minutes, or your cellphone provider will charge you the standard off net tariff. The call will appear on your normal monthly cellphone bill. You will not receive any bill from us.
If you’re on pay as you go, the call will be deducted from your airtime credit the way it’s normally deducted for any call to another cellular service provider.
Are there peak and off-peak rates?
Before dialing, check the adjoining table during the relevant time period, to make sure your destination network is supported on the 087 Universal Service. Scroll down to see the Off Peak time table
When do call charges take effect?
You will be charged from the moment you are connected to our service, not the moment the call is answered at the other end. As we want our customers to benefit from no registration, low prices and access from all networks, we unfortunately cannot change this. However, should your call not be answered, you will be informed by our operator and disconnected. Your call should not take more than two minutes.
How do I contact customer services?
You can call our call centre or our customer helpline number.
When I ring someone abroad will they be charged for the call as well?
Normally the person receiving a call will never be charged. However if you are abroad with your mobile (i.e. not in the country the mobile number originates from) your mobile provider will charge you for receiving calls whilst abroad also known as roaming charges. For more information please contact your mobile provider.
How much can I save by using Universal?
Depending upon what destination you are calling, savings can vary from R1 to R5 per minute. To get the exact saving for your destination, check the rate fir this destination offered on your service provider’s website:
Vodacom Prepaid Pricing:
Vodacom Contract Pricing:
MTN pricing:
www.mtn.co.za/Travel/International%20Calling/Pages/default.aspx
I received my telephone bill and I have been charged the full international rate for my call. Why is this?
If you have been billed at your normal service provider’s rate for the international destination you called, this means you dialed the international destination number directly and did not dial via the Universal Phone 087 network. So next time you make an international call, remember to dial the Universal access number before you dial the international telephone number.