In part one we looked at plans for average long distance caller. But what if you make LOTS of calls?

- High Usage Plans -

Let's say you make three, four, five hours of long distance calls each week. There are four different service types you want to consider:

1) A Per Minute Plan.

2) Bundled Service, which includes both unlimited local and unlimited long distance for one set rate.

3) Unlimited Long Distance, for a set monthly price.

4) Fixed Price Long Distance, ie: $30/month for up to 3000 minutes.

If you use a lot of long distance, it's worth sitting down with a calculator and doing a little figuring.

Start by estimating how much time you spend making long distance calls. Figure out what this would cost using a low cost per minute service. Compare this to what you would pay with an unlimited or fixed price long distance service in your area.

Then combine your estimated long distance cost with price of your current local service bill. Compare this with what you would be paying for a bundled (combined) local and long distance service.

Keep in mind that fees and taxes often raise advertised price of most unlimited plans by $10 to $15 a month.

If it looks like a bundled, unlimited or fixed price long distance plan would be cheaper than using a per minute service, your next step is to read plan's fine print.

As a long distance consultant, I've often wondered why people are hesitant to switch to new, lower priced, long distance plans.

Then it hit me. It's same reason I get stuck in tooth paste aisle at grocery store. There are so many tubes of toothpaste to choose from. Each with different benefits, flavors, features. I'm not a toothpaste expert. How do I know which toothpaste is best?

So I pick up usual tube, just to avoid making a decision.

Are you doing same thing when it comes to long distance? If so, you're missing out on lower rates offered in today's market. Read this and get ready to shrink your long distance bill!

- Average Usage Plans -

Most of us make between fifteen minutes to two hours of long distance calls a week.

If you fit into this range, you'll get your best deal from a small long distance company. One that specializes in low per minute rates for residential and small business callers. Small companies have to compete against big three (AT&T, Sprint, MCI). They often do so by offering lower rates.

Most small long distance companies are very dependable. They generally provide better, more personal, customer service. Most offer plans with rates under 5¢/minute.