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What is Porting?

Transferring your mobile number is simple and needn't be the mystery it once was with our straightforward guide:

You can keep the same telephone number from contract to contract via a process known as porting.

How Do I Port My Number?

First you will need to contact your current network provider and ask them for your Porting Authorisation Code more commonly known as a PAC code. Bear in mind that PAC codes become invalid after 14 days, so once you've obtained your PAC code, you have that long to use it to port your number, after which you will have to call up for a fresh PAC code.

It is also essential that you obtain your PAC code from your current operator before cancelling your contract, or your number will be lost.

In most cases the operators won’t charge you for this service, unless of course you are still under contract, in which case there may well be a pay-out clause whereby you can pay off your operator to leave the network before the end of your contract.

Is the Porting Process Different For Pay As You Go and Monthly Contracts?

No, the porting process is exactly the same for both Pay-As-You-Go and Pay Monthly contracts.

Porting to Orange

Porting your number from your current network to Orange is very simple. Contact your current network and ask them for a PAC code then order your new Orange mobile. When your mobile arrives it will have a temporary number so you can take/make calls straight away. Now call Orange on 0800 079 4000, give them your PAC tell them you wish to port your number. Within a day or two your number will be transferred to your new mobile and your temporary number will be cancelled.

Porting to Three

Porting your number to Three: Contact your current network and ask them for a PAC then order your new Three mobile. When your mobile arrives it will have a temporary number so you can make/receive calls straight away. Now contact Three on 0843 373 3333 and tell them you wish to port your number, then give them your PAC. Within a day or two your number will be transferred to your new mobile and your temporary number will be cancelled.

Porting to T-Mobile

Porting to T-Mobile is easy. Just contact your current network and ask them for a PAC code then order your new T-mobile handset. When your mobile arrives it will have a temporary number so you can take/make calls straight away. Now call T-Mobile on 0870 606 0139, give them your PAC tell them you wish to port your number. Within a day or two your number will be transferred to your new mobile and your temporary number will be cancelled.

Porting to 02

Porting to O2 is very straight forward. Just contact your current network and ask them for a PAC code then order your new O2 handset. When your mobile arrives it will have a temporary number so you can take/make calls straight away. Now call O2 on 0844 809 0202 and tell them you wish to port your number. Now give them your PAC code. Within a day or two your number will be transferred to your new mobile and your temporary number will be cancelled.

Porting to Vodafone

You must take care because the process for porting your number to Vodafone is different from the other networks! You must supply Vodafone with your PAC code before setting up a new account on their network. If you don't give Vodafone your PAC code before obtaining a new deal on their network, you will not be able to port your number.

So, start by contacting your current network and requesting a PAC code, then order your new mobile - you'll be asked for your PAC and existing phone number when you order. After your new mobile arrives it will take a day or two for your existing number to be transferred. Please note that it is not possible to move a number to Vodafone after your phone has been connected.

Alternatively...

Alternatively, if you don’t want the hassle of porting your number, but are concerned that people will be unable to contact you then you could just switch your old number to Pay As You Go and then record a voicemail message advising callers of your new number. Simple, but effective!