For most businesses, the phone number is more valuable than the line itself - it's on your website, your van, your business cards and in your customers' phones. So the number one question about the switch-off is fair: can I keep my number? The short answer is yes. Here's how, and what to watch.
Yes, you keep your number
When you move off the old copper network, your number doesn't belong to the line - it can be transferred to your new service. This applies to standard geographic numbers (01 and 02), so your 0161, 020, 0114 or similar stays exactly the same. Customers carry on dialling what they always have.
The mechanism is number porting - the same well-established process used whenever numbers move between providers.
How porting a landline number works
In practice, the steps are:
- Choose your new service - a Digital Voice line or hosted system.
- Request the port - your new provider submits the request; you provide details from a recent bill.
- Set a port date - the number transfers on an agreed day.
- Test, then cease the old line - only switch off the legacy line once the number is live on the new service.
Your new provider manages it - you don't have to negotiate with the old one.
The pitfalls to avoid
Keeping your number is reliable, but a few mistakes cause real pain:
- Ceasing the old line too early. Never cancel the legacy line before the number has ported - if the line is gone, the number can be much harder to recover.
- Leaving it to the last minute. Porting takes planning; don't start days before the switch-off deadline. Our switch-off checklist helps you sequence it.
- Forgetting DDI ranges. If you have DDI numbers, make sure the whole range is included in the port.
- Mismatched account details. The name and address on the port request must match the old account, or it can be rejected.
What about moving premises?
A geographic number is tied to an area code, not a precise address, so you can usually keep an 0161 number even if you move within reason. Moving a long way can raise questions about geographic numbers - we cover this fully in moving office: phone lines and numbers. Modern internet-based services make this far easier than the old network ever did.
Can you keep non-geographic numbers too?
Yes - 03, 0800 and other non-geographic numbers can also be ported. If you're unsure what type a number is, our phone number checker tool explains UK number types and what they mean.
The bottom line
You don't lose your business number in the switch-off - it ports to your new digital service, and your provider handles it. Just plan ahead, include every number and DDI, and never cease the old line until the number is safely live. Want a smooth, no-stress port? Explore our Cloud Telephony service or request a callback.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep my business landline number after the switch-off?
Yes. Your existing geographic number can be ported to a digital or hosted phone service, so customers keep dialling the same number. The line changes; the number stays.
How do I transfer my landline number to a new provider?
Your new provider submits a porting request using details from a recent bill, you agree a port date, and the number transfers on that day. You only switch off the old line once the number is live on the new service.
Will I lose my number if I cancel my old line first?
You might. Never cease the legacy line before the number has ported - if the line is gone first, recovering the number can be difficult. Always port first, then cease.
Can I keep my landline number if I move office?
Usually yes, because a geographic number is tied to an area code rather than an exact address. Modern internet-based services make keeping your number when moving far easier than the old network did.
