What is a “Number Port”?

A “Number Port” is the process of moving your number from one provider to another – generally you will only need to do this when you are having a new phone system installed. As there are many different “types” of numbers / phone lines, it’s not as simple as it is to move your mobile number, but it does allow you to maintain the number you are recognised for when you have a new system instead of starting again with a new number.  Have a look at our video.

How do you do a Number Port?

To do a number port, we need to identify the following things:

  • What numbers do you have? Do you have any DDI Ranges?
  • What address are these numbers registered to?
  • What type of lines are these numbers associated to? Single Line? Multi-Line?
  • What provider currently has control over the numbers?

We can normally identify the answers to most of these questions by taking a look at your existing providers bill, however some questions require more digging which can delay the process!

Once we believe we have the correct information, we can submit the port with your new provider. On average, it takes around 48 hours to know whether a port has been approved or rejected. If a port has been rejected, unfortunately we often get very little information on why this is the case, and we have to do more investigating to find out the correct information. Sometimes, number ports can be submitted several times before we finally get to an approval.

Number Port

Once a port has been accepted, it’s as simple as having to wait the minimum 14-day lead time for the numbers to be transferred over. It is still possible for issues to occur after a port has been accepted, such as the losing provider cancelling the order due to not being informed the numbers were moving away, or if there are any issues on the day with BT, but these are unlikely.

PAC Codes and Porting 

PAC codes play a crucial role in the mobile number porting process. A PAC code, or Porting Authorisation Code, is a unique nine-character identifier that allows you to transfer your mobile phone number from one network provider to another. This code is essential for ensuring a smooth transition without losing your existing phone number. 

To obtain a PAC code, you need to contact your current provider. This can be done easily by texting or calling them. The PAC code is usually sent to you immediately, but you may need to provide some information to verify your identity. Once you have your PAC code, it remains valid for 30 days. If you don’t use it within this period, you’ll need to request a new one. 

After receiving your PAC code, provide it to your new network provider to arrange the transfer. The porting process typically takes 1-2 working days. During this time, you can continue using your old SIM card until the transfer is complete. If you’re switching on a weekend, the process may take a bit longer, potentially extending to the following Tuesday. 

Regulations and Compliance 

Mobile number porting in the UK is regulated by Ofcom to ensure fair and efficient processes. Ofcom sets the rules for number porting and monitors compliance among service providers. These regulations mandate that service providers must allow customers to take their telephone number with them when switching to a new provider. 

Service providers are required to provide customers with a PAC code within a specific timeframe. This PAC code must be valid for 30 days, giving customers ample time to use it to transfer their mobile phone number to a new provider. 

In addition to Ofcom’s regulations, mobile number porting is also governed by industry standards and guidelines. Bodies like the NICC and OTA2 play a significant role in developing interoperability standards and ensuring cooperation between communications providers. These standards help maintain a seamless and efficient porting process across different networks. 

Impact on Mobile Carriers and Customers 

Mobile number porting has a significant impact on both mobile carriers and customers. For mobile carriers, it means they must compete more aggressively to retain their customers, leading to better services and lower prices for consumers. This competition benefits customers by providing more options and improved service quality. 

For customers, mobile number porting offers the flexibility to switch to a different mobile network while retaining their existing phone number. This means you can take advantage of better coverage, faster data speeds, and more affordable plans offered by different network operators without the hassle of changing your phone number. 

The implementation of mobile number porting has also led to an increase in the number of mobile subscribers. Users are more willing to switch providers knowing they can keep their existing number, which has encouraged network operators to enhance their services to retain customers. 

Overall, mobile number porting has had a profound impact on the mobile industry, fostering increased competition, better services, and lower prices for consumers. 

What other things should I consider about my existing phone number?

  • For a single line, there is a 14-day lead time for a number port from submitting to the number porting. This process allows you to retain your existing phone number when switching to one communications provider, ensuring continuity and convenience. 
  • For a multi-line, there is a 21-day lead time for a number port from submitting to the number porting.
  • Once a port has been accepted, we need at MINIMUM a weeks’ notice to amend the port date to a date in the future.
  • We are unable to port a number that has any form of “security” line attached to it, such as Redcare. This needs to be removed before the port.
  • While waiting for a number to port, it is possible to ask your current provider to divert the numbers to a new phone line so you can begin to use your new phone system, but this does incur some additional call fees for a short period of time.

Summary Of The Porting Process

If you would like more information on number porting or are thinking of switching provider but are worried about the process then reach out to us at Digital Exchange and book a 30 minute chat with one of our friendly team to let us help and put your mind at ease. hone providers play a crucial role in facilitating the number porting process, ensuring that you can retain your existing number when switching services. For more information have a look at https://www.ofcom.org.uk/