Keep the number on your trucks. Forward the calls.
You do not need a new phone number to use an AI receptionist. Forward your existing line with a code or a setting. Here is how, by carrier.
November 9, 2026 · 2 min read · aiReceptionist editorial
The number on the truck, the sign, and the Google listing stay the same. Calls forward to your receptionist from the line you already have.
Three callers: HVAC, handyman, and home services
- HVAC: “I am not changing the number on my trucks.” You do not have to. Forwarding happens at your carrier.
- Handyman: “The number is on every yard sign and every invoice.” Same number. Forward only after hours if you like.
- Home services: “Our number is on the Google listing and the side of the van.” Forward when busy or unanswered, so the office still picks up first.
Your number is painted on vans and printed on yard signs. Changing it would cost more than the receptionist.
Forwarding is a carrier setting
Your carrier sends calls from your number to your aiReceptionist number. Callers dial what they always dialed.
Choose when
Forward everything, or only when you are busy or do not answer. On Verizon, *71 followed by your aiReceptionist number forwards only busy and unanswered calls. Other carriers use other codes, or a setting in their app. AT&T is different, so check yours before you dial.
The setup page has a picker
Choose your carrier on the setup page and it shows the code or the menu path, taken from our help center. It covers ten carriers, from Verizon and T-Mobile to RingCentral and Google Voice.
More than one number
An account can hold more than one number, each routed on its own. A main line and a service line can each forward in. More on numbers.
Test after you forward
Call your old number from another phone. You should hear your receptionist.
Talk to the HVAC receptionist before you forward anything.
Ready to stop missing calls?
Try it free, or ask the team how it would work for your business.