SmartSaver SMS dilemma

[Edwe]

I recently started a SmartSaver contract with a number of free SMS messages per month. I understand that these do not apply to premium-rated SMS services, but my utility metering company (STss) claims the number from which I buy electricity (31661) is standard-rated.

I cannot, however, SMS to this number using my free messages; I have to buy airtime first. As far as I understand this either means that

1) Telkom Mobile (possibly incorrectly) assumes that all numbers in the 6-digit format are premium-rated, or
2) My metering company is lying (in an official contract) when they say that the number is not premium-rated.

Could a TM representative or someone with inside knowledge please comment on this?

 

[Edwe]

Sorry, I meant to post this in the call contracts sub-forum. Could a mod please move it, if necessary?

 

[ginggs]

Sorry, I meant to post this in the call contracts sub-forum. Could a mod please move it, if necessary?

Do the Telkom reps frequent that section?

Edit: doesn't seem like it. I'm happy for this thread to stay here.

 

[ld13]

How much is Telkom charging you per SMS sent to the number? I see that the number does indeed show itself as being rated as "VAS Rate: Standard".

 

[cavedog]

I think the VAS is the problem. No matter if the number is premium or standard. I think Telkom Mobile will charge you the normal sms rate but free minutes won't apply. I do understand that its not premium but I think the free sms will mostlikely only count to numbers on actual mobile networks or fixed line operaters.

 

[RichardG]

Their billing system picks it up as a VAS(value-added service) have you asked the company where you buy your prepaid electricity for the full 10 digit number, normally the 6 digit is just a short cut number..

If I remember correctly their is a structure on the charges for 3**** numbers example 32 would be charged as R1,50 per sms but things have changed over the years cos the numbers ran out...