porting number

[aceman118]

If I'm currently on AT&T and plan to switch to Tmo and keep my #... how long will I be without a phone during the porting process? Also, does Tmo take care of everything or will I have to call AT&T later to take care of any fees (ETF etc)?

I've been with AT&T/cingular forever so I've never had to do this before. I tried searching but didn't find anything. So, apologies if this has been discussed to death.

[cherry_pye86]

Typically when you port your number out from a carrier it's disconnected, since it obviously cannot be active on 2 carriers. You'll receive a final bill and be responsible for any applicable fees. But you don't have to contact them before you do so, just make sure you have all of your account info with you.

[aceman118]

So, how long is it disconnected for? Is that something they take care of right in the store or will it take a day or two for them to get it into the Tmo system?

[berryite]

Originally Posted by aceman118

So, how long is it disconnected for? Is that something they take care of right in the store or will it take a day or two for them to get it into the Tmo system?

It's usually just an hour or two. But it can drag out if there is a problem or if your existing carrier refuses to release the number for any reason. I had one friend who got ported over in an hour with no problems. I had another friend who took days. The problem with the friend who took days was because the old carrier would not release the number to the new carrier.

They give you a temporary number until the porting is complete so it's not like you have no use of your phone.

You are wise to make the move from AT&T to T-Mobile. I did the same thing years ago and have never looked back.

[berryite]

Originally Posted by aceman118

So, how long is it disconnected for? Is that something they take care of right in the store or will it take a day or two for them to get it into the Tmo system?

Oh and by the way, do NOT go into AT&T and cancel your service until the port is done. Otherwise you could lose your number. If you close your account without the porting done, your carrier can claim that you no longer own the number and refuse to release it.

Just let T-Mobile handle it first.

[aceman118]

Awesome, thanks for your help!

I'm still waiting for the 9700 to be officially released to make the change so hopefully that is soon. I think I feel pretty prepared for when I do go in. Thanks again.

[berryite]

Originally Posted by aceman118

Awesome, thanks for your help!

I'm still waiting for the 9700 to be officially released to make the change so hopefully that is soon. I think I feel pretty prepared for when I do go in. Thanks again.

The rumor is tomorrow for the release of the 9700. Not sure if that is accurate but you might want to start checking tomorrow.

Good luck.