Know Your Way Around Dial-Around

In search of long-distance savings, many people have turned to dial-around companies--sometimes called “10-10” services--which allow them to use a rival long-distance carrier on a per-call basis by dialing a seven-digit code.

The savings from these services, if any, depend on how well a service matches a user’s calling habits.

Here are tips for choosing a dial-around carrier:

* Review calling patterns. Do you make long-distance calls at night or during the day? Weekdays or weekends? How long do most of your calls last? Are there certain countries you call often? Are most of your calls within California?

* Shop around. Check both standard calling plans and dial-around services. Dial-around is not available everywhere and cannot be used away from home. In most cases, it’s best to split calls between a good long-distance plan and a dial-around carrier.

* Scrutinize costs. The lowest per-minute rates may not lead to the lowest overall bill. Some companies charge monthly fees, impose higher prices for the first minute, vary prices based on time of day or day of the week, assess per-call fees, charge universal-service fees or impose per-call minimums.

* Verify terms. Many carriers resist putting their prices in writing, but ask anyway. Call a company’s customer service line to get details.

* Consider the extras. Many dial-around carriers do not provide directory assistance, calling cards or operator assistance.