Phone Number Porting: How to Move Your Number Between Providers Without Losing It
When you switch VoIP providers, phone number porting, the process of transferring your existing phone number from one service provider to another. Also known as number porting, it lets you keep your familiar number—whether it’s a local business line or a personal number—without forcing customers or contacts to update their records. This isn’t just convenience; it’s critical for brand continuity. If you’re a small business, losing your number means losing trust, missed calls, and wasted marketing spend. Many people think porting is automatic, but it’s not. It’s a manual process with rules, paperwork, and hidden traps.
Successful phone number porting, the process of transferring your existing phone number from one service provider to another. Also known as number porting, it lets you keep your familiar number—whether it’s a local business line or a personal number—without forcing customers or contacts to update their records. requires three things: accurate account info, an active service during the transfer, and a clear understanding of your current provider’s policies. A common mistake is assuming your old provider will help. They won’t. You have to request a Letter of Authorization (LOA) and provide your current account number and billing address exactly as listed. Even a typo in the address can delay porting for weeks. Another issue? DID porting, the transfer of Direct Inward Dialing numbers used in VoIP systems. Also known as DID porting, it’s the technical backbone of business number transfers. If your number is a DID (not a traditional landline), your new provider must support the same carrier protocols. Not all do. And if you’re using number parking to hold your number temporarily, make sure it’s still active—parked numbers can expire if not renewed.
Porting can take anywhere from 1 to 10 business days, depending on your location and carrier. Rural areas and smaller carriers often move slower. During this time, your old service must stay active. Don’t cancel it early. Many users lose service because they assume the new provider will handle everything. They don’t. You’re the project manager. You need to track progress, respond to requests from both providers, and confirm the port date. Some providers charge porting fees. Others don’t. Always ask upfront. And if your number is tied to emergency services, make sure your new provider registers it with local 911 systems. This isn’t optional.
Look at the posts below. You’ll find real fixes for failed port attempts, tips on holding numbers while switching providers, and how to avoid the mistakes that cost businesses time and money. These aren’t theory pieces. They’re battle-tested steps from people who’ve been through it—and got it right.
