You would think that transferring your phone number to a new carrier would be instantaneous, but due to the nature of the telecom infrastructure, it does take a little time.
Moving your number from one carrier to another is called porting. There are a few steps involved, and it usually takes 7-10 days to complete, but this can vary based on how fast your current provider handles the process.
In this article, we’ll talk not just about answering the question but also informing you about the possible reasons that can delay your porting process. Read on to learn more!
How Long Does it Take to Transfer My Number to a New Provider?
The time it takes to transfer your number depends on who you’re switching to and what type of service you have. Most transfers take about 2 to 10 days. In some rare cases, it could take up to 4 weeks.
For popular providers, here’s what you can expect:
- Verizon: If you’re moving your mobile number, it usually takes 4 to 24 business hours. For landlines, it can take 2 to 10 business days.
- T-Mobile: Wireless transfers are pretty quick — they can take as little as 10 minutes or up to 3 hours. For landlines, it might take 3 to 10 days.
- AT&T: If you’re ordering your new phone or SIM card online or over the phone, your transfer may take 3 to 5 business days. Your old phone will still work until you activate your new AT&T device. If you’re transferring a non-wireless number, expect it to take at least 5 to 7 business days.
Just a heads-up: this can depend on a few things. We’ll go over what might cause delays so you know what to expect. It’s always easier when you have a heads-up on how things might go.
4 Reasons Why Porting Your Number Might Get Delayed
Sometimes, transferring your number doesn’t go as smoothly as planned. If your port is taking longer than expected, one of these common issues could be the reason.
1. Your New Provider Does Not Respond to Your Request Right Away
The first thing that can delay the porting process is when your new provider does not respond to your port request in a timely manner.
If you don’t hear back from them within 24 hours with transfer instructions, reach out to your new provider right away and ask them to get things moving.
2. The Port Cannot Be Submitted Until You Send Documentation for the Number
After you request to transfer your phone number to a new provider, they’ll start the porting process. You’ll need to provide some documents, usually a phone bill for the number you’re transferring or something that proves the number is yours. You’ll also need to sign a form to confirm you approve the transfer.
The FCC has strict rules about number transfers. Your new provider can’t even submit the request to your current provider until you send the required documents.
3. Rejections Cause Delays, but They Can Usually Be Avoided
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned, and your current provider might refuse to release your number to the new provider.
That’s why it’s important to double-check that all the details you give your new provider, like your service address, billing phone number, and account holder’s name, are correct.
To make sure your information is correct, you can contact your current provider and ask for a Customer Service Report (CSR) for your number.
If you’re looking for even more information, we have another post with all the reasons that a port can be rejected.
4. Complex Ports Can Take Longer to Complete
Most number transfers are considered “simple ports,” which usually means they get processed quickly. But if your number has extra features like call forwarding, call groups, or special voicemail services, it might take longer.
Reach out to your current provider to see if there’s anything you can do to speed up the transfer. They can also tell you if any features need to be removed before your number can be ported.
In general, porting your phone number to a new provider does not take very long. As a rule of thumb, when you request a transfer, contact your current provider to find out exactly what they require to release your phone number; then, contact your new provider to find out what they need from you.
These are some common reasons for delays. But if you stay in touch with your new provider throughout the process, things should move along smoothly.
Recommended reading:
How Creating a Business Phone Number Helps Your Business
Should I Get a Separate Phone for My Business?
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FAQs About How Long Does It Take To Port a Number
Can I use my number while it’s being ported?
Yes, you can usually keep using your existing phone number during the porting process, but it depends on your new service provider. Outgoing calls may temporarily show a different number, but incoming calls should still reach your phone. It’s a good idea to check with your new network provider to confirm how their process works.
How do I know if my number has been ported successfully?
Your phone service will switch to the new network provider once the process is complete. Outgoing calls will start showing your existing number, and you should be able to receive incoming calls without issues. If you’re unsure, try calling your existing number from another phone to confirm it’s active.
Why is porting my number taking so long?
Phone number porting can sometimes take longer than expected if there are issues with your account information. Delays often happen if you provide an incorrect account number, if there’s an outstanding balance with your previous provider, like Verizon Wireless or T-Mobile, or if your existing number is linked to multiple lines. Contact your new service provider for updates if the process is taking longer than a few minutes to complete.
How to port a SIM immediately?
To speed up the process, have your account number, PIN, and other details ready before starting. Providing accurate information can help your new service provider transfer your existing phone number faster. While some ports can take a few minutes, others may take longer, depending on your previous provider’s process.
Stephanie
Stephanie is the Marketing Director at Talkroute and has been featured in Forbes, Inc, and Entrepreneur as a leading authority on business and telecommunications.
Stephanie is also the chief editor and contributing author for the Talkroute blog helping more than 200k entrepreneurs to start, run, and grow their businesses.
