How to quickly port your VoIP numbers: Steps, challenges, & more
Thinking of switching to a new VoIP service provider, but feel overwhelmed by the number porting process?
The VoIP number porting process is easier than it seems.
However, before you go all-in — it’s important to understand how it works to ensure the switch to a new service provider is fast and seamless.
This quick guide will walk you through the entire number porting process with:
3 important considerations to keep the process on track
The exact steps to port a phone number
Common challenges you may experience when switching to a new VoIP provider
3 key number porting facts to know before you start
Number porting doesn’t have to be a slow and painful process if you take the time to understand how the process works.
Here are 3 key considerations you’ll need to know before getting started.
Number porting can take several weeks
Even though the number porting process is fairly simple, it can take up to 4 weeks to complete.
You’ll still have access to your phones and will be able to use the numbers even during the phone number porting process. Your new service provider should inform you when the numbers have successfully ported over.
Phone service providers play a crucial role in this process, and the requirements can vary depending on the providers involved.
Keep in mind that porting toll-free numbers can take longer, and you’ll want to make sure service is not interrupted during the transition.
Do not cancel your previous service
Whatever you do: never cancel your previous service until number porting is complete with your new service provider. This can delay the process significantly.
Even if your existing VoIP service provider tries to convince you to stay, threatens you over outstanding balances, or engages in other questionable tactics — they are legally obligated to complete the number porting process.
You will be liable for all outstanding balances and any early termination fees, so be sure to handle any billing issues before they’re reported to credit collectors.
Keep track of your account credentials and PINs
A business phone number plays an important role in authenticating access to apps, accounts, and more. That’s why ensuring the integrity of your phone service is vital to combating fraud and abuse.
Number porting requests must be authenticated before service can be transferred to another vendor.
Be sure to keep PIN and account numbers safe and always remember why you decided to leave your service provider in the first place, as they may try everything within their legal means to keep you on as a customer.
Remember, they cannot retaliate or deny number porting requests if you provide all the necessary information to authenticate your request.
A quick introduction to VoIP service provider and number porting
How does the VoIP number porting process work?
VoIP number porting is the process of transferring your existing phone number to a new VoIP service provider. This allows you to keep your same phone number and have it work with your new VoIP service.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires that phone numbers be portable between service providers if you remain within the same geographic area — sometimes known as a rate center.
VoIP number porting is a convenient way to maintain your existing phone numbers when switching VoIP service providers, ensuring a smooth transition and avoiding the hassle of updating contact information.
Benefits of VoIP number porting
Experience a smooth transition to a new VoIP service provider
Hassle-free process for a single phone number or larger blocks
Reduce costs by switching from a traditional landline services to VoIP services
Avoid the inconvenience of changing your phone number when switching VoIP services
VoIP number porting requirements and limitations
Ready to port your phone numbers? Here’s what you’ll need to have ready to keep the process moving along:
- Provide your new VoIP provider with a list of information, including your account number, billing address, and PIN.
- Ensure your current phone service is active and that you have no outstanding balances or past-due bills.
- Comply with number porting requirements. This includes having your current phone service for at least 60 days before porting your number.
What numbers can you port?
You can port a variety of phone numbers to your new VoIP service, including:
Mobile numbers
Toll-free numbers
Regular phone numbers
Virtual numbers
Landline numbers
However, it’s essential to note that not all phone numbers can be ported, and there may be restrictions or limitations that apply. It’s always best to check with your new VoIP provider to confirm that your specific phone number can be ported.
The 4-step VoIP provider number porting process
The VoIP number porting process typically involves the following steps:
Contact your new VoIP provider about porting numbers.
Provide your new VoIP provider with a Letter of Authorization (LOA) and supporting documentation, such as your account number and billing address.
Your new VoIP provider will then contact your current phone service provider and begin the porting process.
The porting process timeline can vary, but generally takes 5-7 business days for simple ports once all requirements are met.
6 common VoIP porting process challenges
Sometimes things go wrong when porting your number to another VoIP provider.
Follow these tips to position yourself for a smooth porting process.
Not telling your current provider
The porting process requires action from both your current and soon-to-be VoIP provider. Contacting your current provider is critical to initiate the porting process and gather necessary information.
Incorrect contact details
If your name or address varies from the service request, you may have to provide additional proof of identification to demonstrate ownership of your phone numbers successfully.
Don’t get frustrated should this occur; the verification is a security measure to protect your accounts.
Telephone number not found
User error can result in the new vendor being unable to match a port request to the same number owned by the previous vendor.
While this might delay your process, the porting won’t work, and a correction will need to be made. Once accurate information is provided, the porting will be able to proceed.
VoIP service providers often require regulatory compliance and necessary documentation, such as service bills and letters of authorization to ensure a smooth transition.
The old number has been disconnected
You may have to take additional steps to get your number ported if it’s been disconnected. If the disconnection has been in effect for some time, the number may get assigned to another customer.
If this occurs, you will no longer be capable of porting the numbers and will need to obtain new ones. Once a line is disconnected, a telephone provider can require bill settlement before releasing the number to your new provider, so always ensure your account is active when starting the porting process.
DSL phone lines
Unless the DSL provider allows for a dry loop, you may be required to obtain a new associated phone number. Always check with the DSL provider before porting one of their numbers.
Toll-free redirect
If the number getting ported is being redirected to a 1-800 or other toll-free numbers, keep in mind, it may take extra time to complete the porting process. So plan accordingly.
Looking to port your numbers to a new service provider?
Porting your landline or VoIP numbers is a fairly easy and straightforward process.
Even though you may encounter obstacles — the end results are worth it.
Are you looking to port your numbers? Experience a pain-free number porting process with Momentum by your side.
