Procedure for switching mobile phone provider?

PabloNeruda

OK, after some consideration I'm going to switch to the '3' network to take advantage of the £17-50 per months offer, and bag the £100 Quidco cashback (I currently pay £20 for far less minutes and texts)
Silly question, but how do I go about switching? I've always been with the same provider (Vodafone). I don't want to be without a mobile if possible, not for more than a couple of days anyway. But obviously I don't want to be paying for 2 tariffs for a while either, but I'd like to do this as soon as possible in case the deal ends. Does anybody have a simple litte 'Step 1'....'Step 2' guide? I've had a little hunt around but with no joy. :embarasse Kind thanks for any help.

Oh, and is there a way I can keep the same number?

costbuster

Your still need to give Vodafone 30 days notice even if your out of contract.

It will be possible to take your number with you. Just ask Voda for a PAC (Porting Authority Code) when you leave and give it to your new supplier,they will arrange transfer of number.It usually takes about 5 days to get it over,in meantime you have to use new number.

olly300

Done this lots of times and the last time to 3.

Don't cancel your mobile contract.

Phone vodafone and ask for a PAC. They should sent this to you in the post within 10 working days.

Get the PAC and contact 3. (I wish you the best in doing that. Remember only ask 3 customer services simple questions that can be found on one of their scripts.)

Get the phone from 3 and give them your PAC within 10 days of receiving the phone otherwise you can't port your number. (The PAC expires within 30 days. 3 port your number after sending you the handset.)

At some point you will have disruption on your phone for a day while the numbers switch over. (The level of disruption varies from none at all to one provider cutting you off for 2 days before the new provider can port your number over. )

Vodafone will cancel your contract but may charge you up to 30 days money for it once you port the number due to requiring 30 days notice to cancel the contract.

Your contract with 3 will begin from the date you phoned 3 that your received your handset, and you will be billed from this date. So for one month you will be paying 2 mobile bills.