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How to switch mobile phone provider

Switching networks has never been easier, thanks to a new process which now makes it both fast and user-friendly. You can either keep your old number or request a new one, and it’s as simple as sending a text, so there’s no need to put it off. Move to a better deal and start saving money today.

Alternatively, if you’re happy with your current provider you can select an upgrade deal, which will automatically carry forward your number without needing a PAC.

  1. Text the word PAC to 65075, which is free to do. You’ll then receive a PAC (Port Authorisation Code) from your current provider.
  2. Alternatively, you can request your PAC by calling your current network.
  3. Once you have your PAC, place a new purchase with mobiles.co.uk. You’ll be prompted to add your PAC during the checkout process, then you can sit back and let us do the rest. We’ll contact your current provider to cancel your contract, and ensure your existing number is transferred to your new order.
  1. New contracts always come with a new number as standard, so you’ll just need to cancel your old contract and number.
  2. To do this, send the word STAC via a free text message to 75075. You’ll then receive a STAC from the network provider you want to leave.
  3. When you make your order with mobiles.co.uk, you’ll have the option to add your STAC in the basket process. Once you place your order, we’ll contact your current network to inform them you wish to cancel your contract and your number. We’ll then supply a new number with your new order.

Network Switching FAQs

How do I switch mobile phone providers?

If your mobile contract has ended, you can switch to a different network without charge. Just decide whether you want to keep your existing number or start a new number. Then follow the steps above.

What’s the difference between a PAC and STAC?

A PAC is used to switch networks, and carry forward an existing phone number. A STAC is used to cancel an existing number, and receive a new number with a new order.

How do I get my PAC or STAC?

You can request your PAC or STAC via a free text message service by texting PAC to 65075 or STAC to 75075, or by contacting your existing provider. For more information, please see our guide to switching, above.

Can I keep my current phone number?

Yes, you can switch networks and keep your number by requesting your PAC, via the free text message service. For more information, please see our guide to switching, above.

How long will it take to change phone networks?

Once we've processed your order and supplied your PAC or STAC to your new provider, the switch should be completed within one working day. You also now have the opportunity to select your porting date.

Will I be out of service when switching networks?

The process of switching is completed within one working day, although it may occasionally take longer. You may be out of service for a very short period of time, but you won’t be left waiting for long. You also now have the opportunity to select your porting date.

Which mobile networks can I switch to?

We offer mobile deals on a range of great networks. You can choose to switch to Vodafone or iD Mobile, depending on which deal you like the look of most.

Can I switch my mobile phone network mid-contract?

If you want to switch before your contract ends, you’ll be required to pay an early-termination fee, equivalent to your remaining line rental.

Can I switch from contract to SIM-only (or vice-versa)?

Yes, you can switch to whatever type of contract works best for you. You can choose a new mobile deal, or switch to SIM-only to save money if you’re happy with your existing phone.

Can I cancel my phone contract early?

You can leave your network at any time, however if you’re currently mid-contact, this will incur an early termination fee. When you request your PAC or STAC, any early termination fees liable will be provided.

How much does it cost to cancel a phone contract?

If you’re still mid contract, you’ll incur an early termination fee if you cancel before the end of your contract. This fee is the equivalent of your remaining contracted month’s line rental.

Do I need to unlock my phone to switch?

This depends on the phone you’re using, and if it’s network locked. You can check if your handset is locked by calling your network provider, and request it be unlocked if so.

When using a PAC, will my order arrive with my existing number?

If you’re using a PAC to switch to Vodafone, your new SIM will remain inactive until your chosen switching date, at which point it will activate with your existing number. If you’re switching to iD Mobile, your new SIM will arrive active with a temporary number until your switching date, when your existing number will carry forward to replace it.

I’m using a PAC to switch to iD Mobile, is this the same process?

The process of using a PAC when switching to iD Mobile is the same as other networks. The only thing to note is that your iD Mobile order will arrive with a temporary number, which will be active until your chosen switching date. At this point, your existing number will carry forward to replace it.

PAC FAQs

What is a PAC?

PAC stands for Personal Authorisation Code, and is a code which lets you keep your existing number when you switch networks. It also stops your service with your current provider when your number moves over.

How do I get a PAC?

All you need to do is text the word PAC to 65075. Your current network should reply with your PAC within a few minutes. You can also get a PAC by calling your provider, or requesting one through your online account.

How do I use a PAC?

It’s easy to use your PAC when you’re ready to switch. Simply place your new order with Mobiles.co.uk and you’ll be prompted to enter your PAC or STAC during the checkout process. We’ll then use your PAC to transfer your number and cancel your previous connection.

What if I change my mind after requesting my PAC?

After you request a PAC, there’s no obligation to use it. If you don’t use your PAC within thirty days, it will simply expire, and your current connection will continue with your existing number, until you decide to cancel or switch at a later time.

How long does a PAC last?

A PAC lasts for 30 days before it expires. You can still switch after this time, but you’ll have to request a new PAC from your network.

My PAC has not expired but I’m unable to apply it to my order?

We only accept PAC which have at least ten days left before they expire. This is to ensure that you don’t lose service before we can complete your new order and get it to you. If you have less than ten days left on your PAC, please request a new one from your provider.

STAC FAQs

What is a STAC?

STAC stands for Service Termination Authorisation Code. If you want to switch networks, and get a new number with your new order, you’ll need a STAC, as this cancels both your current connection and current number.

How do I get a STAC?

Just text the word STAC to 75075 and you should receive a reply within a few minutes. Alternatively, you can request a STAC by calling your provider, or via your online log-in.

How do I use a STAC?

When you place an order with mobiles.co.uk, you’ll be prompted to enter your STAC or PAC during the checkout process. When you do this, we’ll notify your current provider that you wish to end your connection and number, and you’ll get a new mobile number with your order. This usually only takes one working day but may be longer in some cases. You can also select your desired disconnection date.

How long does a STAC last?

Your STAC will last for 30 days from the point you requested it. After this time it will expire, and you’ll need to request a new one, if you still wish to switch and end your old number.

My STAC has not expired but I’m unable to apply it to my order?

We only accept STAC with at least ten days left to run before their expiry date. This is to ensure your previous number isn’t disconnected before your new order arrives, leaving you without service. If you have less than ten days before your STAC expires, please request a new code from your network.

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