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Switching Mobile Carriers: Can I Keep My Phone Number?
Mobile Phone & Internet Blog | MATE | 18 April 2023
Changing mobile carriers is becoming increasingly common as Aussies continue to look for the best deals and services. Nonetheless, the two big questions for many mobile phone users are: how to switch mobile carriers and whether you can keep your phone number when you switch providers. The good news is—yes, it is possible to keep your mobile phone number when you switch carriers, and it’s pretty easy to do so too!
Can I keep my number if I change mobile phone providers?
In most cases, yes! This process is called number porting, and it lets you keep your existing phone number even when you switch to a different mobile provider. Mobile providers are legally obligated to facilitate this transfer, making it a simple and convenient process that takes just a few steps. However, it’s important to note that there are some terms and conditions you need to be aware of. Check with your current provider and your new provider to ensure that you’re eligible for number porting and have all the necessary information before getting started.
What is number porting?
To keep it simple, number porting is the process of transferring your mobile phone number from one carrier to another. It’s a process that allows you to keep your phone number even when you change your mobile phone plan and provider.
Having a new SIM card ready is key to this process, as you’ll need it to activate your number with a new carrier.
Keeping your mobile number is key if you plan to switch your mobile phone service in Australia. Porting your number is a simple process that can save you the hassle of updating your contact information and informing your mates about your new number.
The technology behind number porting involves a database that tracks phone numbers and their respective carriers. When a customer switches carriers, the new carrier requests to port the customer’s number from their current carrier. The current carrier then releases the number to the database, which updates the customer’s phone number to the new carrier. The process may vary slightly depending on the country and the carrier involved, but the idea stays the same.
Benefits of Porting Your Mobile Number
Convenience
Getting a new mobile number can be a hassle when you’ve had the same number for years. With mobile porting, you benefit from a new plan or service provider without memorising a new number or telling all your mates. You can also sidestep the need to update your contact information for your job, services or subscriptions.
Cost-effective
When you switch to a new mobile network provider, you may be able to take advantage of promotional deals, discounts, or better-priced plans. Plus, if you’re using your number for work, then you don’t have to fork out extra money for updated business cards or marketing materials.
Flexibility
Nothing is worse than being tied to a mobile provider you’re unhappy with. Thankfully, mobile porting gives you a bit more flexibility without the inconvenience of losing your number. Whether you’ve just moved house and you’re dealing with bad reception, you want to save some money, or you’re just in need of a change, the flexibility of mobile porting can come in handy for a lot of Aussies.
How do I keep my number when changing providers?
Step 1: Check if you are eligible to port your number
Before proceeding with the porting process, you must ensure you’re eligible. Most Australian service providers allow number porting, but some may have specific terms and conditions that you need to meet. Check with your current phone provider to see if you are eligible. You can also check the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) website for more information on porting your mobile number.
Step 2: Choose your new service provider
Once you’ve confirmed that you’re eligible to port your number, the next step is to choose your new mobile service provider. Take the time to research what options are available and select the provider that offers the best deal for you. You can compare the plans, pricing, network coverage, and customer service to make an informed decision.
At MATE, we’re proud to bring you the perfect mobile plans for your situation. Whether you’re a heavy data user or just need enough to stay connected, our 4G and 5G mobile plans offer something for everyone. From just $20 a month, you can take advantage of unlimited talk and text to standard Aussie numbers, no lock-in contracts and up to 150GB of data each month.
Step 3: Contact your new service provider
Once you’ve chosen your new mobile phone plan and service provider, the next step is to contact them and let them know that you want to port your number. They will guide you through the process and provide you with the necessary information. You can contact your new service provider through their website, email, or phone number.
Step 4: Provide your details
You must provide your details to your new service provider so they can port your number. Depending on your current and new plan, this might include your name, address, and contact information. Ensure that accurate information is provided to avoid delays or issues during the porting process.
Step 5: Provide Your Current Mobile Number
Provide your current mobile number that you want to port. Your new service provider will initiate the porting process while your current provider releases your number to the new provider.
Step 6: Wait for the process to be completed
The porting process usually takes one to two business days to complete. During this time, you can still use your current service until the transfer is complete. Once the process is completed, your new service provider will inform you, after which you can start using your new service plan.
Tips for a smooth porting process
Here are some tips to help you ensure a smooth porting process:
- Check for any outstanding payments or obligations with your current provider before initiating the porting process. You might have to pay early termination fees if you’re ending a plan or breaking a contract.
- Don’t cancel your existing mobile plan until the porting process is completed.
- Ensure that your new provider has all the necessary information, including your correct details and contact information.
- Contact your new provider if you experience any issues during the porting process.
- If you have a prepaid service, ensure you have a sufficient credit balance to cover the porting process.
Common issues and solutions when porting your mobile number
Issue #1: Incorrect information
One of the most common issues when porting your mobile number is incorrect information. This can happen if you provide your new service provider with the wrong account number or date of birth or if your current service provider has incorrect information on file.
Solution: Double-check the information
Always double-check your account details with your current service provider before submitting your port request to avoid this issue. You should also verify that your personal information matches what your current provider has on file.
Issue #2: Delays in the porting process
Another common issue is a delay in the porting process. This can happen if there are errors or discrepancies in the information provided or if there is a backlog in the porting process.
Solution: Plan ahead
To avoid delays, plan ahead and allow enough time for the porting process to complete. Also, ensure that you have provided accurate information and cleared any outstanding balances with your current provider.
Issue #3: Service interruption
Service interruption is another issue that can occur during the porting process, albeit rarely. This can happen if there is a miscommunication between your new and old mobile phone service providers or if there are technical difficulties during the porting process.
Solution: Contact customer support
If you experience service interruption, contact customer support immediately. They should be able to help you resolve the issue and restore your service as quickly as possible.
Issue #4: Inability to port your number
In some cases, you may not be able to port your number to your new service provider. This can happen if your current provider does not allow number porting or if other restrictions are in place.
Solution: Research your options
To avoid this issue, research your options before choosing a new service provider to avoid this issue. Ensure that they support number porting and that there are no restrictions preventing you from porting your number.
Issue #5: Loss of features
When porting your number, you may also lose certain features or services your previous provider offers. For example, you may lose access to voicemail or call forwarding.
Solution: Check with your new provider
To avoid this issue, check with your new provider for their features and services. Make sure they offer comparable features to what you had with your previous provider or that you are comfortable with their alternatives.
MATE’s No Contract Mobile Plans
Here at MATE, we offer a range of mobile plans for you to choose from. They all come with the benefit of unlimited national talk and text, alongside the ability to transfer your mobile number without needing a contract.
- Good Mates: 12GB, 4G (capped at 100MBps), 2000 national MMS included (photo/video).
- Better Mates: 25GB, 4G (capped at 100Mbps), 2000 national MMS included (photo/video).
- Great Mates: 32GB, 5G (capped at 100Mbps), 2000 national MMS included (photo/video).
- Best Mates: 50GB, 5G (capped at 100Mbps), 2000 national MMS included (photo/video).
- Brilliant Mates: 65GB, 5G (capped at 250Mbps), 1000 GB data bank, 2000 national MMS included (photo/video).
- Soul Mates: 150GB, 5G (capped at 250Mbps), 1000 GB data bank, 2000 national MMS included (photo/video).
You can share, chat, and connect with friends carefreely with the newly included 2000 national MMS, including video MMS. Check out the differences in our refreshed mobile plans and how to obtain an upgrade for yourself.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined in this blog and working closely with your new carrier, you can ensure a smooth transition and continue to enjoy the benefits of your current phone number without interruption. Remember to always to do your research and ask questions to make sure you are making the best decision for your needs. With a little effort, you can switch carriers and keep your phone number, making the transition to a new mobile service provider as seamless as possible.
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