Area Code 173 – Beijing
The phone area code for Beijing is 173 (international format +86173). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
📞 Exchange Codes (NXX) for Area Code 173
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📍 Geographic Location of Beijing
Overview of China Area Code 173
Area code 173 is a geographic telephone code assigned to the Beijing municipality in the People's Republic of China. Under the ITU-T E.164 international numbering plan, the country calling code for China is +86, and the national significant number (NSN) for Beijing numbers is typically 11 digits long, beginning with the area code 10 for landlines. However, the 173 prefix is not a traditional landline area code; it is a mobile network prefix that is geographically associated with Beijing for administrative and numbering purposes. This distinction is important for understanding how these numbers are dialed and routed.
Dialing Formats and Usage
For callers within China, a 173 number is dialed as a complete 11-digit mobile number, e.g., 173 1234 5678. There is no separate trunk prefix or area code to dial; the number is used as a whole. For international callers, the number must be preceded by the +86 country code, resulting in the format +86 173 1234 5678. When dialing from a mobile phone, the plus sign (+) is typically used, but it can be replaced with the international access prefix of the originating country (e.g., 011 from the US, 00 from most European countries).
Regulatory and Technical Considerations
The 173 prefix is allocated to mobile network operators (MNOs) and mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) serving the Beijing region. It is a non-geographic number in the sense that it is not tied to a fixed physical address, but it is administratively assigned to Beijing. This means that the number can be used anywhere in China, and the subscriber may roam nationally or internationally. Mobile number portability (MNP) is available in China, allowing users to retain their 173 numbers when switching carriers, subject to regulatory conditions.
Caller Instructions
For local callers within Beijing, dialing a 173 number requires only the 11-digit number. For callers outside Beijing but within China, the same 11-digit number is dialed without any additional prefix. For international callers, the correct international format is +86 173 XXXX XXXX. It is essential to omit the leading zero if one is present in local notation (though 173 does not start with zero). Always confirm the number length and format with the recipient to avoid misdialing.
Conclusion
In summary, the 173 prefix is a mobile code associated with Beijing, China. Understanding its dialing rules ensures seamless connectivity for both domestic and international callers. As with all telecom services, standard international rates apply when calling from abroad, and users should consult their service provider for specific charges.