How to Port an Existing Number to a 0207 Number Provider

In today's fast-paced world, our phone numbers have become an essential part of our identities. Whether it's for personal or business use, maintaining the same contact number is crucial. If you're considering switching to a 0207 number provider while keeping your existing number, you're in the right place.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of porting your current number to a 0207 number provider seamlessly.

Request a PAC from Your Current Provider

When it comes to switching to a 0207 number provider while retaining your current number, the first crucial step is to request a PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) from your existing provider. This code serves as the key to unlocking the porting process and allows for a smooth transfer of your number to the new provider.

Here's how to request a PAC from your current provider:

• Contact Customer Service: The most common way to request a PAC is by getting in touch with your provider's customer service team. You can do this by calling their dedicated customer service number. This number is usually provided on your monthly bills, the provider's official website, or the documentation that came with your service.
• Online Account Access: Many providers offer online account management portals that allow you to perform various tasks, including requesting a PAC. If you have an online account set up, log in to the portal using your credentials. Navigate to the relevant section for requesting a PAC, which might be under options like "Manage My Account" or "Number Porting."
• Request via SMS: In some cases, you might be able to request a PAC by sending an SMS from your registered mobile number. Check your provider's official website or documentation for the specific SMS shortcode and format to use for requesting the PAC. Usually, you'll need to send a message containing the keyword "PAC."
• Visit a Physical Store: If your provider has physical retail stores or service centres, you can also visit one in person to request a PAC. Bring along identification and account information to verify your identity.
• Information Needed: When requesting a PAC, you'll likely need to provide some information to verify your identity and account ownership. This may include your account number, personal details, and possibly the answer to security questions.
• Timing and Validity: Once you've requested a PAC, your provider is obligated to provide it to you within two working days. The PAC is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. If you don't use the PAC within this timeframe, you might need to request a new one.
• Keep Communication Records: It's advisable to keep a record of all communication related to the PAC request, including the date and time of your request, the name of the customer service representative you spoke to, and any reference numbers provided. This can be helpful in case any issues arise during the porting process.

By following these steps and keeping the provided guidelines in mind, you can smoothly request a PAC from your current provider, setting the stage for a successful transfer of your existing number to your chosen 0207 number provider.

Give the PAC to Your New Provider

Once you have obtained the PAC, it's time to share it with your chosen 0207 number provider. This code acts as a key to initiate the porting process. Your new provider will guide you on how to provide the PAC, whether it's through an online form or during the sign-up process.

It's important to double-check that you've entered the PAC correctly to prevent any delays in the transfer

Let Smart Numbers Guide You on how to provide the PAC

Check Your Number Has Ported Across

After submitting the PAC, it usually takes a few working days for the porting process to complete. During this time, you should receive updates from both your old and new providers. Once the process is complete, your existing number will be successfully transferred to your new 0207 number provider.

Test your number by making and receiving calls to ensure everything is functioning as expected

Contact Numbers to Request a PAC

To request a Porting Authorisation Code (PAC), the easiest way would be to either place a request through your online account or send a text to 'PAC' to 65075.

You can also call your numbers provider to request your PAC.

To talk to your existing number provider and request a PAC, find the right option for you below:

• EE: Call 150 from an EE phone or 0795 396 6150 from any other phone, or using the Leave EE option on the Account Settings page.
• O2: Call 202 from an O2 phone or 0344 809 0222 from another mobile or landline, or request your PAC online via the My O2 Account.
• Vodafone: Call 191 from a Vodafone mobile or 033 3304 0191 from another phone or you can also request a PAC via the web chat box.
• Three: Call 333 from a Three phone or 0333 338 1001 from any other phone. You can also request a PAC through the My3 account online platform, or using the Three live chat.
• Virgin Mobile: Call 789 from a Virgin handset or 0345 6000 789 from another phone. Alternatively, you can use the Switching option in your Virgin Mobile online account.
• BT Mobile: To get your PAC on BT Mobile, call 150 from a BT Mobile phone or 0800 800 150 from any phone. You can also use the Thinking of leaving BT option when logged into MY BT.
• Giffgaff: You can request a PAC from Giffgaff by logging into your Giffgaff account or by using Giffgaff's Text-to-Switch service.
• Sky Mobile: To get a PAC from Sky, call 03300 412 524 from any number. Alternatively, you can visit sky.com/leavesky.
• SMARTY: Request a PAC from the dashboard in your SMARTY account, then choose the Leave SMARTY option and follow the instructions or email team@smarty.co.uk to request a callback.
• VOXI: Call 0808 005 7451 from any phone or sign in to your VOXI account and select the Leave VOXI option
• Tesco Mobile: To get a PAC from Tesco Mobile, call 4455 from your Tesco Mobile handset or 0345 301 4455 from another phone. Alternatively, use the Leaving Tesco Mobile in My Account on the Tesco Mobile website.
• Plusnet Mobile: To request a PAC from Plusnet Mobile, you can call 500 from a Plusnet Mobile phone or 0800 079 1133 from any other number.
• iD Mobile: To request a PAC from iD Mobile, call 7777 from an iD Mobile handset or 0333 003 7777 from any other phone. You can also log into your account on the iD Mobile and follow the steps - Thinking of Leaving > Switch or Cancel Now > Get PAC code.
• Lebara Mobile: Call 5588 from your Lebara Mobile handset or 020 3059 0304 from another number. Alternatively, you can fill out the porting out form to get a PAC.
• Lyca Mobile: To request a PAC from Lyca Mobile, call 322 on a Lyca Mobile handset or 0207 132 0322 from any other phone.

Keeping Your Number When Upgrading with the Same Provider

If you're upgrading your plan or switching to a different plan with the same provider, you can usually keep your existing number without going through the porting process.

However, it's still a good idea to confirm this with your provider to avoid any unexpected changes.

Conclusion

Switching to a 0207 number provider while retaining your existing number is a relatively straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a seamless transition without losing touch with your contacts.

Remember to be patient during the porting process, as it might take a few days to complete.