Call Forwarding
Also known as: call diversion, number forwarding
Call forwarding sends calls from one number on to another destination, so a tracking number can ring your real business line while recording the call's source.
Call forwarding is the basic act of sending a call placed to one number onward to another phone. In call tracking it is the mechanism that makes a tracking number useful: the caller dials a unique number tied to a campaign, the platform records the source and the audio, then forwards the call to your real business line so the conversation happens normally.
Forwarding is one step within the larger picture of call routing, which adds the rules — business-hours handling, ring order, failover to voicemail — that decide where a call should go. Because the forwarding number is what the caller sees, the same setup powers dynamic number insertion without ever exposing your underlying line.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between call forwarding and call routing?
Call forwarding simply passes a call from one number to another destination. Call routing is the broader logic — time-of-day rules, ring order, failover — that decides which destination to forward to. Forwarding is one action inside routing.
Does call forwarding keep attribution?
Yes. A tracking number forwards the call to your business line while first logging the source, duration, and recording. The caller reaches you normally, and you still know which campaign produced the call.
Does the caller see the tracking number or my real number?
The caller dials the tracking number and never sees where it forwards to. On your end, a call whisper or the caller ID can show which number or campaign the call came in on before you answer.
Related terms
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