Option 1: divert your existing number
The most common route. You're given a ParlioTec number; you tell your phone to forward to it. Standard UK GSM codes work on most mobiles and many landlines (your provider's portal has the same settings):
- Forward all calls: **21*07xxxxxxxxx# — turn off with ##21#
- Forward when no answer: **61*07xxxxxxxxx# — off with ##61#
- Forward when busy: **67*07xxxxxxxxx# — off with ##67#
- Forward when unreachable (no signal): **62*07xxxxxxxxx# — off with ##62#
Which divert to choose
"No answer" and "busy" diverts let you keep picking up when you can and have the AI catch the rest — the usual starting point. "All calls" hands everything to the AI, which suits out-of-hours switching or businesses that want the AI as the front desk. Many owners set no-answer during the day and all-calls when they leave the yard.
Option 2: a new number the AI answers
Order a local or 0330 number inside the dashboard and publish it on your website, Google profile and vans. Useful for a new service line or to measure which channel brings calls. Numbers from stock are live instantly.
Option 3: connect your phone system (SIP)
If you run a hosted PBX or VoIP system, route calls to the AI over SIP — as an overflow destination, an out-of-hours route or a dedicated extension. The AI can transfer back into your system the same way.
A gotcha worth knowing
If you forward your mobile with "all calls" and then ask the AI to ring that mobile (for a test call or transfer), the call loops back to the AI. Use no-answer/busy diverts for a mobile you also want to receive calls on, or test from a different phone.
Common questions
Will I lose my number?
No — diverting keeps your number exactly as it is, and you can switch the divert off any time.
Does forwarding cost anything?
Most UK plans include diverts; some charge the forwarded leg at your normal call rate. Check with your provider.
Can I test it before diverting?
Yes — call the ParlioTec number directly, or have the agent ring you during set-up.
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