Area Code 87 – Mobile Network
The phone area code for Mobile Network is 87 (international format +35987). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
📞 Exchange Codes (NXX) for Area Code 87
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Overview of Bulgarian Mobile Prefix 87
The +359 87 prefix is a non-geographic mobile network code assigned within the Bulgarian National Numbering Plan, as regulated by the Communications Regulation Commission (CRC). Unlike geographic area codes, which correspond to fixed locations, the 87 prefix is used exclusively for mobile telecommunications services. Numbers bearing this prefix are allocated to Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) operating in Bulgaria. The prefix does not indicate a specific region; rather, it is part of the country's closed numbering plan, where the full national significant number (NSN) consists of nine digits following the country code. Thus, a typical Bulgarian mobile number in international format appears as +359 87 XXX XXXX, where the '87' is the national destination code (NDC) for mobile services.
Technical Formatting and Dialing Rules
When dialing a Bulgarian mobile number from abroad, callers must use the international access prefix of their originating country, followed by Bulgaria's country code (+359), the NDC (87), and the seven-digit subscriber number. For example, a number might be formatted as +359 87 123 4567. Within Bulgaria, callers dial the full national number without the country code, i.e., 087 123 4567, with the leading '0' being the trunk prefix. It is important to note that the '0' is not part of the international dialing sequence; it is only used domestically. This distinction is crucial for both local and international callers to ensure successful call completion.
Mobile Number Portability and Routing
Bulgaria implemented Mobile Number Portability (MNP) in 2008, allowing subscribers to retain their mobile numbers when switching operators. Consequently, the prefix 87 does not necessarily indicate the current network operator of a given subscriber; it only reflects the original allocation. For routing purposes, calls to numbers beginning with +359 87 are directed to the appropriate mobile network via a central database lookup, ensuring seamless connectivity regardless of the current service provider. This system enhances competition and consumer choice while maintaining the integrity of the numbering plan.
Usage and Regulatory Considerations
Numbers under the 87 prefix are primarily used for voice calls, SMS, and mobile data services. They are also used for machine-to-machine (M2M) communications and IoT applications, reflecting the growing demand for connected devices. The CRC oversees the allocation and management of these numbers, ensuring compliance with ITU-T E.164 recommendations. For businesses and individuals, understanding the non-geographic nature of the prefix is essential for marketing, customer service, and regulatory compliance, especially when implementing number-based verification systems or call routing strategies.