Businesses have been signing up for VoIP digital phone systems for quite some time now, particularly as landlines are shortly to be switched off permanently. Not only that, but VoIP digital phone systems can mean big cost savings, not to mention lots of advanced features.
However one common concern often crops up when making the jump: “Can I keep my number?” After all, you’ve likely had your phone number for years – maybe even decades – and changing it could be a real headache.
The good news is that in most cases, the answer is yes, you can keep your number when you switch to VoIP. But, as with many tech transitions, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the process smooth.
What Is Number Porting?
Number porting is basically the process of transferring your phone number from your old service provider to a new VoIP provider. It means you can move your existing phone number to a new service without having to go through the hassle of updating all your contacts with a new one. It’s generally very quick and easy.
Can I Port My Business Mobile Number?
Of course! Just as with personal mobile numbers, business mobile numbers can also be ported and switched to a different provider. Just like with personal numbers, the steps are simple: request a PAC, provide it to the new provider and let them take care of the rest.
For businesses, there’s one extra tip:
If one account holds multiple numbers, make sure to tell the new provider in advance so they can ensure a seamless coordinated transfer.
Why Do Small Business Owners Often Want to Keep Their Number?
For many people, a phone number is more than just digits on a screen; it’s an important part of their identity. Whether you’re running a business with a phone number that clients know well or you simply don’t want the hassle of updating your logo and stationery with a new number, keeping your old one can be so important.
And that makes sense! In business, having to change your phone number could lead to lost customers through confusion and missed calls. Luckily, number porting exists specifically to prevent this kind of inconvenience.
How Long Does it Take to Port a Number?
Consider number porting as relocating your phone number from one “home” to another. It’s a matter of some logistics, but typically seamless as long as you can submit a few simple documents. For mobile phones, porting can be performed as soon as the request is made and is often completed within one business day. For landlines, or complex business setups, it would take a few days to a week to complete- mostly dependent on the provider and type of services in question.
Can You Always Keep Your Number?
Generally speaking, yes – you can transfer your existing phone number to VoIP. However, there are some occasions where it might not be possible or practical. For example:
Geographic Restrictions
Some numbers are tied to a specific area code, especially in landline systems. If you’re moving to a different region and your new VoIP provider doesn’t support your area code, there could be complications. However, many VoIP providers (like bOnline!) offer service in a broad range of areas, so this is rarely a problem.
Your Old Provider’s Cooperation
Your current phone provider has to release your number so that it can be ported over. While most providers legally have to allow number porting, the process can sometimes be delayed by administrative issues. The good news? VoIP providers like bOnline are used to handling this and can help you through any hiccups.
VoIP Provider Capabilities
Not all VoIP services support every type of phone number. Some only allow mobile numbers to be ported, while others can handle both mobile and landline numbers. Before you make the switch, double-check with your prospective VoIP provider that they can support your specific number.
Contractual Obligations
If you’re under a contract with your current provider, you may need to pay an early termination fee to switch. While this doesn’t necessarily prevent you from keeping your number, it’s a cost you’ll want to consider before starting the transfer process.
What Happens to Your Old Service?
One thing to bear in mind is that porting your number essentially means transferring it away from your old provider. This means your old service will no longer have control over the number. If you were using a traditional landline or mobile service, your old account will likely be cancelled after the porting process is complete. Just be aware that if you have other services bundled with your phone number (like internet or cable), you’ll need to contact your old provider to avoid service disruptions.
How to Port a Mobile Number
Porting a mobile number may seem complex, but in reality, it is a straightforward process and steps are taken to ensure there is no disruption during the changeover. Here is a guide to the process:
Requesting Your PAC Code
Obtaining the PAC code gives you the first step in the process. Your PAC is a short code, usually consisting of 9 characters, which permits the relocation of your number to a different service provider. You may obtain it from your mobile provider via SMS, via your account or through a short call to support. For most regions in the UK, you can text “PAC” to 65075 and will receive it within 60 seconds.
Selecting a New Provider
Evaluate the coverage maps and check the plan features and pricing options of the prospective new service to ensure that it will meet your requirements. For business users, this phase also includes examining international call pricing, the data cap, provisions for a multi-user account and whether the service has dedicated account management. After this, go ahead and sign up for the new plan and inform them that you will be porting your existing number.
Providing Your PAC
Next, provide your new service provider your PAC together with the number you wish to port. After this, your new service provider will manage the entire process of dealing with your old provider on your behalf. They will also provide you proof of a porting date, which is when your number will be ported.
Waiting for the Transfer
On the date that is agreed, the transfer usually happens within a few hours. For mobile numbers, it tends to be instantaneous within the same business day. There is usually a brief service disruption, but this is only a few minutes. After the wait, restarting your device ensures that the new SIM is functioning with the old number.
Tips for a Smooth Transfer
It’s a good idea to back up your contacts, messages, and important app information to make the transfer process easier. It’s also a good idea to keep your old SIM in your phone until the transition is complete. Moreover, for business numbers that will be moved along with several other user accounts, make sure to inform your staff beforehand to avoid any unexpected issues. Lastly, do not manually cancel your old contract- your account with the old provider will be closed automatically once the port is completed.
Keeping Your Number Is Easy With bOnline
Switching to VoIP offers a lot of advantages – especially when it comes to cost savings and flexibility. Number porting is a straightforward process that allows you to keep your number and start enjoying all the benefits VoIP has to offer. Just remember to check with your new provider about any potential limitations, and follow the steps carefully to ensure a smooth transition.
Keeping your number when switching to VoIP is not only possible but typically quite easy – meaning you can make the change without missing a single call. When you switch to us, signing up takes just 2 minutes online, with no downtime and no engineer visits. Once you’re set up, we will take charge of porting your number for you – so no worries about getting a new one.
Why not try us for free?
