Local number portability lets you transfer your existing phone number to a new wireless provider so you don't need to notify contacts of a new number. Provide accurate account details and keep your old service active until the port finishes. Prepaid numbers are often portable; contracts may carry early termination fees. Ask the new carrier about timing and any costs.

Keep your old number when you change wireless carriers

You don't have to get a new phone number when you switch wireless providers. Federal rules require local number portability, which lets you move an existing number from one carrier to another so friends, family, and business contacts don't need a new contact for you.

How porting works

To move a number you typically provide your new carrier with the phone number to be moved, the account number and account PIN (or password) from your existing provider, and the account holder's name and billing address exactly as they appear on the old account. Don't cancel your old service before the port completes - canceling first can prevent the transfer.

Porting times vary. Wireless-to-wireless ports often finish quickly, sometimes within a business day; transfers from landlines or certain legacy networks can take longer. Your new carrier should give an estimated completion time and handle the technical side of the transfer.

Prepaid numbers and contracts

Many prepaid and contract numbers can be ported. If you have a contract with an early termination fee (ETF), that fee may still apply even if you move your number. Check your existing contract before switching so you understand any costs.

What about legacy brands like Nextel?

Brands and networks change. The Nextel brand and its iDEN network were absorbed into Sprint years ago, and Sprint later merged with T-Mobile. The basic rule remains: the number is yours to move, subject to provider and regulatory procedures.

Tips for a smooth transfer

  • Verify the account name, number, and PIN on your current account before starting. Small mismatches cause delays.
  • Keep your old service active until the port completes. Your new carrier will usually tell you when the switch happens.
  • Ask your new carrier about timing, any temporary service interruptions, and potential costs (ETFs, final bills).
  • Update important services (bank accounts, two-factor authentication, subscriptions) after the port completes.
Porting keeps you reachable and avoids the hassle of notifying everyone of a new number. The process is common, and most carriers handle it routinely - but check account details and costs first so the move is smooth.
  1. Confirm the exact year the FCC first mandated local number portability and update phrasing if needed
  2. Verify typical porting timeframes (wireless-to-wireless vs. landline-to-wireless) with current carrier guidelines
  3. Confirm current FCC rules on prepaid number portability and any carrier exceptions

FAQs about Nextel Phone Numbers

Can I port my landline number to a cell phone?
Yes. You can usually move a landline number to a mobile account. The new carrier will tell you the expected timeframe and any steps required.
Will my prepaid number transfer to a new carrier?
Many prepaid numbers are portable. You should check with both the old and new carrier for any account details or limitations.
Do I need to cancel my old service before porting?
No. Do not cancel your old service before the transfer completes. Canceling first can block the port.
How long does number porting take?
Timing varies. Wireless-to-wireless ports can complete quickly, sometimes within a business day, while landline or legacy-network transfers may take longer. Ask the new carrier for an estimate.
Will I owe fees if I switch carriers?
You may owe early termination fees or final charges to your old carrier if you're under contract. Confirm any charges before initiating the port.

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