Number porting

[TooNice]

I like the 1100 mins | texts for £20 on 3 right now. However, the offer expires at the end of April and my contract with O2 is good until June. Would 3 let me port my number after my contract with O2 is up if I sign up now, or would I need to provide them the PAC code at time of ordering?

[poozle]

Yes, I spoke to someone at 3 and all you do is get your new phone then when you want to port your number across call 333 (on the new phone) with your PAC code and they can port the number. I think I was told anytime up to 1/2 way through your contract. Might be worth asking on the chat thing on the store as well (especially because if you ask them a question they'll give you a code to get a free £20 accessories voucher with the phone ).

[Tomahawk]

Definitely speak to them; as with other networks (Vodafone, O2, etc.) you have to provide your PAC code at the time of setting up the new contract.. as once your new line has been allocated a new number you can't just swap it for your old one.

Three ('3') maybe different though; what I would say is maybe see if Three will buy you out.. its worth asking them; I mean if its NOT a sim only deal then they may give you a lesser phone and possibly say they'll pay the rest of the O2 contract off.

AFAIK though the PAC is required at purchase for most networks.

[poozle]

Ok, I just found an answer in the 3 FAQs

If you’re moving to 3 and you want to keep your number, you need to contact your current network provider to ask for a Port Authorisation Code (PAC).

What is a PAC?

A PAC allows you to ask your current network provider to transfer your number to another network provider.

Your current network provider will give you a PAC within two working days of the time you ask them for it. Your PAC is valid for 30 calendar days.

Your current network provider will not give you a PAC if:

· your number is disconnected; or

· there are issues with your contract (for example, you have a minimum term contract)

The next thing you need to do is tell us you want to transfer your number. You must do this within 30 days of when you received your PAC. Your number can be transferred anytime between seven and 37 calendar days from the date you received your PAC. We’ll give you at least seven calendar days’ notice.

Here are a few more things you need to know about moving your number to 3

· You must have a 3 account before we can set up your transfer.

· When we receive your PAC, we’ll transfer your number at the earliest date possible (minimum of five working days), unless you specify a later date.

· If your PAC has expired, you need to contact your old network provider to get a new PAC.

· If you want to cancel the transfer, you must give us up to 48 working hours’ notice.

· If you want to change the date we transfer your number, you need to give us 48 hours’ notice, and you can only change to a later date (not earlier).

· You may experience disruption to your service on the day of the port. If this happens, service will be restored by 5.30pm.

I bolded the important part, they won't port the number before you sign up, only after you have an account with them.