Standardized Phone Number Entry with Country Code

To ensure all phone numbers in HubSpot are stored in a consistent, country-code-inclusive format for reliable communication, automation, reporting, and integration across platforms.

Why This Matters

Data Quality & Consistency

  • Consistent phone formatting ensures high-quality data — valid, standardized, and reliable.
  • Prevents mismatches, duplicates, and failed imports/exports caused by inconsistent formats.

Global Communication

  • Including the country code ensures that calls, texts, and automated workflows function correctly for both domestic and international contacts.

Integration Compatibility

  • External systems (e.g., dialers, WhatsApp integrations, SMS tools, Website Feed) require the country code to route calls/texts properly.

Reporting & Segmentation

  • Country codes allow for regional segmentation, compliance with local communication laws, and accurate campaign targeting.

Scope

Applies to:

  • All staff entering, importing, or updating phone numbers in HubSpot contact or company records.

  • Phone properties such as Phone Number, Mobile Phone Number, Secondary Phone Number of Site, Fax Number


Procedure

When Adding or Editing a Phone Number

  1. Search Before Adding

    • Ensure the contact/company doesn’t already have a number listed to avoid duplicates.

  2. Use International Format

    • Always include:

      • Plus sign (+)

      • Country code (CA by default)

      • Area code (no leading zeros)

      • Phone number

    • Example:

      • CA: +1 250 555 7890
      • UK: +44 20 7123 4567

    • Check for Accuracy

      • Validate that the number matches the contact’s actual location.

      • Confirm the country code if unsure via countrycode.org or your internal guide.

    • Imports

      • Standardize formats in spreadsheets before importing into HubSpot.

      • Use HubSpot’s Property Validation rules for phone numbers where possible.


    Do’s and Don’ts

    ✅ Do:

    • Always start with + followed by the country code.

    • Match the number’s country code to the contact’s address location.

    • Apply the format to both landlines and mobile numbers.

    ❌ Don’t:

    • Enter numbers without the country code.

    • Use inconsistent separators (e.g., sometimes spaces, sometimes dashes).

    • Leave placeholder values like 000000 or 12345.