Have you already revamped your telephony system to a VoIP-based one? If so, well done! You are no doubt already realising some of the many benefits of VoIP, including cheaper calls. But what happens if circumstances change and you need to switch VoIP provider, perhaps because you have been offered a better deal elsewhere? What will happen to your numbers?
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Well, fortunately, with VoIP numbers, as with any UK telephone number, you have the right to take your number with you to a new provider. This entitlement is courtesy of Ofcom, as outlined in the Ofcom General Conditions of Entitlement. It states that all UK numbers have to be portable.
How to Port Your VoIP Numbers
As a customer, it is crucially important that you do not end your current contract before you have started the process of porting your numbers. Indeed, if your contract were to lapse, you would lose the right to keep those numbers.
Once you have decided on a new provider, you will need to sign a Letter of Authority giving them permission to take over your existing VoIP numbers. The process of porting these numbers is their responsibility, and they must request the numbers from the provider you are leaving.
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If you are still using a traditional phone system but would like to learn more about how your organisation could benefit from a switch to VoIP, why not take a look at the website of a specialist wholesale VoIP termination provider such as https://www.idtexpress.com/ today?
How Long Will Porting the Numbers Take?
Porting a single VoIP number usually takes a minimum of seven days. More complex port requests might take longer to complete. But don’t worry, as your numbers will stay live and working until the agreed porting date, and the transition between providers is usually almost instantaneous and shouldn’t cause disruption.
There are some providers who might try to find a way to prevent your leaving with your existing numbers. Although they won’t explicitly refuse your request, they may well put obstacles in the way and make it difficult for you. They may even try and get a payment off you to port your numbers. If this happens, you should remind them of their legal obligations and, if necessary, seek help from Ofcom.
