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Inbound call vs live transfer
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An inbound call starts with the consumer: they see an ad and dial. A live transfer comes through a call center first and is handed to you on the line. At HotInboundCalls, inbound calls bill after 90 seconds and live transfers after 2 minutes.
What's the practical difference?
| Inbound call | Live transfer | |
|---|---|---|
| How it reaches you | The consumer dials the number from an ad | Comes through a call center first, then handed to you |
| Intent | They chose to call about coverage | They agreed to be transferred to an agent |
| HotInboundCalls billable after | 90 seconds | 2 minutes (3 minutes for elite) |
| HotInboundCalls price range | $45 to $65 per billable call across types | $45 to $65 per billable call across types |
Which should I buy?
If you close best when the caller already wants to talk, inbound. If you want the call to come through a call center first, a live transfer. Ask any vendor how its transfer callers reach the call center in the first place. Test both for a week and compare cost per conversation.
Is an inbound call automatically better?
No. They cost more to generate, and quality depends on the ad and the vendor. Ask any vendor whether their "inbound" calls are really consumer-dialed, and get the answer in writing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an inbound call and a live transfer?
An inbound call comes straight from the consumer after seeing an ad; a live transfer comes through a call center first and is handed to you on the line.
Are live transfers cheaper?
Often, but it depends on the vendor. At HotInboundCalls all call types fall between $45 and $65 per billable call.
Who starts an inbound call?
The consumer. They see an ad and dial the number themselves. A live transfer comes through a call center first.
How do I compare the two?
Buy both for a week and compare cost per conversation: total spend divided by real conversations.
Talk to a person before you spend anything
A 15-minute call: your states, which call type fits how you sell, and exact pricing.
Book a 15-minute call