Making a call to Canada from a Verizon device is a routine task for millions of travelers and cross-border professionals. Whether you are contacting family, coordinating with a business partner in Toronto, or managing logistics from a sales route, understanding the specific steps and potential costs removes friction from the connection. This guide details exactly how to initiate the call, the associated rates, and the alternatives available if you want to avoid surprise charges on your bill.
Understanding Verizon's International Dialing Process
To successfully call Canada from US Verizon, you must adhere to the international dialing format, even though the destination is in the same continent. The process requires you to exit the domestic network structure and signal to the carrier that you are making an international call. Skipping any part of this sequence will result in the call failing to connect.
The Correct Sequence to Dial
When using a standard Verizon mobile phone or landline, you must input a specific order of numbers. This sequence informs the network that you are routing the call internationally. Follow these steps exactly as listed to ensure a successful connection to any Canadian number.
First, dial the exit code: 011 . This tells Verizon's network that you are leaving the US calling system.
Second, dial the country code for Canada: 1 . This is the universal identifier for the country.
Third, dial the area code for the destination region (e.g., 416 for Toronto, 604 for Vancouver).
Finally, dial the 7-digit local phone number to complete the call.
An example of a fully formatted number looks like this: 011-1-XXX-XXX-XXXX . If you are using a smartphone, you can often replace the "011" with a "+", making the format "+1-XXX-XXX-XXXX" provided your keypad is set to the international mode.
Cost Implications and Rate Plans
One of the primary concerns for users calling Canada is the financial impact. Verizon's standard pay-per-use international rates apply to calls to Canada, which can accumulate quickly if you are on a long call. It is essential to review your current plan or consider add-ons to manage these expenses effectively.
Standard Rates and Packages
Depending on your specific plan, Verizon charges varying rates for calls to Canada. On most pay-as-you-go plans, this is classified as an "International Long Distance" charge. To avoid these high per-minute fees, many users opt for specific international calling packages or add-ons that offer a pool of minutes for a monthly fee.
Using Wi-Fi to Call Canada
For users concerned about cost or traveling in areas with poor cellular coverage, turning the call into a data transaction is the optimal solution. Verizon offers Wi-Fi Calling capabilities that allow you to use a wireless internet connection to place and receive calls to US and Canadian numbers. This method bypasses the cellular network entirely, eliminating international fees.
