What is number porting?
Number porting is the process of moving an existing phone number from one carrier or provider to another, so the business or person keeps the same number. The new provider files a port request, and the old one releases the number on an agreed date.
How it works
You ask the new provider to port the number and sign a letter of authorization. The new provider sends the request to the current one with your account details, such as the account number, PIN and the name and address on the account.
The current provider checks that the details match and confirms a port date. On that date the number is switched over, usually with little or no downtime.
Mobile numbers often port within a few days; landlines and toll-free numbers can take one to several weeks. Mismatched details are the most common reason a request is rejected.
Why it matters
01Keep what customers know
The number on your website, cards and listings keeps working.
02Freedom to switch
Porting is a regulated right in many countries, so a number does not lock you to a provider.
03No lost calls
Done right, callers never notice the move.
Allo and Number porting
Porting to Allo is free: Allo files the request, deals with your old carrier and pays the porting fees, while your line keeps ringing until the switch.
Related terms
The terms that usually come up in the same conversation.
All glossary terms
Frequently asked questions
It varies by country and number type: mobile numbers often take a few days, landlines and toll-free numbers one to several weeks.
No. Keep the old service active until the port is complete. Cancelling first can release the number and make it impossible to port.
Usually because the details on the request, such as the account number, PIN, name or address, do not exactly match the current provider's records.