Do you want to know how to switch phone carriers without paying? Then read through this guide carefully to know exactly how to do so! If you look back around 10 years, you will remember the time when switching phone carriers used to be incredibly difficult.
Many people considered it a pain in the neck because of the loops that they had to jump through and the variety of caveats that were attached to it. Phone carriers purposely made the transitional phase as difficult as possible so that most users would be deterred and avoid making the switch altogether.
Arguably the most annoying thing that a user had to face was that they had to wait a full two weeks before they were able to switch to a different phone carrier fully. On top of that, you couldn’t complete the switching process all by yourself; you had to take a trip down to the retail stores to switch your phone carrier.
But, in the past five years, things have changed considerably. Now, changing phone carriers is no longer a difficulty; you can easily do so from the comfort of your own home without having to rely on lengthy instructions or being forced to leave your house.
At the moment, almost every single carrier out there provides a simple, yet fully automated system to allow an average person to make the switch. There are several reasons for this. First of all, by making the transition process easier, it has opened the door for carriers to attract new customers. More and more people can switch from their previous carriers because the process is now so easy.
On the other hand, by making the transition process so convenient and simple, companies are able to attract more customers. It shows that they are listening to the concerns and the recommendations given by their customers, and are willing to adapt accordingly.
You can also make the switch directly through the phone carrier’s website. In fact, on average, the switching process shouldn’t take more than two hours tops. While you might need to visit the store just to collect your SIM card, you should know that a number of phone carriers can also just ship it out to you, so you will receive it within a day or two only. It’s incredibly simple and easy nowadays.
However, the big question that many people are wondering about is how they can make the switch on their own. If the process really is so easy, how do you go about it? What changes do you make? In the following paragraphs, we will talk about some common methods and the transition process used by the most popular phone carriers.
But, in most cases, companies levy a billing charge when you are trying to make the switch. If you don’t want to worry about paying a switching fee every time you change carriers, there are a few things that you need to know.
But, it is also important for you to know that if you were in a contract with your previous carrier and are now looking to make the switch, which would result in you breaking the contract, the carrier is liable to charge an early termination fee from you.
This is usually mentioned in the contract, though you can also find out from the carrier yourself by just dialing their helpline. But, if you want to switch carriers and save money, the following guide will make it easy for you.
How To Switch Phone Carriers Without Paying
Cross Check Your Previous Billing Statements
The best way to begin is by cross-checking your previous billing statements so that you can see which options are customizable and which aren’t. The number one reason why so many people want to switch carriers is because they want more flexibility when selecting their text, data, and calling packages. If you are opting for the same rigid package, what’s the point of making the switch in the first place?
Compare Plans
This is perhaps the most important step when it comes to selecting a new carrier. You need to make a shortlist of different carriers and then compare a myriad of plans that are on offer. Depending on the maximum amount that you can afford to spend on a monthly basis and your own requirements, you need to be incredibly careful when making a selection. It’s best if you compare plans from various phone carriers when making a decision. You will want to make sure that you choose a carrier that doesn’t levy hidden charges or add more to your monthly expenditure.
Look for Compatibility
Not all phones are compatible with all carriers. For instance, there are certain carriers that use CDMA while others use GSM. It’s recommended that you visit their website first to find out about compatible devices. If you already own a factory unlocked device, there is absolutely no need for you to make the switch to another phone. Why pay a monthly charge anyway when you can simply take out the SIM and put another one in? Most of the phone carriers have an IMEI checker on their website, so you can use that to determine whether your phone is compatible or not.
Purchase a Plan
Once you are sure that your phone is compatible with the new phone carrier, all you need to do is purchase the relevant plan. It’s pretty easy and relatively simple; you just need to make the payment online and because there are no delays in the purchase process. To find out your IMEI checker, you simply need to dial *#06# from the dialer in your phone.
Program Your Phone Number
Changing your phone number every time you switch carriers is the default option, but many people don’t want to take this step. They simply want to keep their old number because it allows their friends and family members to reach them, and effectively prevents them from starting all over again. Once you receive your new SIM card, you just need to follow the given instructions, and you will be able to make the switch.
Check to Ensure All Previous Plans Are Cancelled
Once the porting process has been completed and your number has been ported to a new carrier, you can check to make sure if you’re able to receive calls and dial numbers. But, more importantly, you need to check to make sure that all previous plans have been cancelled. The simplest way to do this is by just calling them; they will be able to guide you on the phone about any outstanding plans that are active on your phone.
Can You Switch Phone Carriers If You Owe Money?
The biggest question that most people have in mind is whether they have to pay a fee to make the switch or not. The simple answer to that is no, you don’t. But, if you end your contract prematurely with any provider, you will probably have to pay an early termination charge. That is the only fee that you will have to pay. If there is any hidden charge on your carrier, you should always call and confirm so that you don’t lose your hard-earned money like this. These are just a few tips for changing carriers.
