How to transfer a USA toll-free number to a new provider

Used by everyone from small start-ups to large established firms, USA toll-free numbers (1-800 numbers) are widely recognised as free to call phone lines. Callers in the USA are aware that they can dial one of these without being charged international rates – whilst the owner of the number picks up the bill.

Given that toll-free numbers encourage customers to make contact with your company, it’s only right that you want a provider that serves your business needs effectively. And if you’re beginning to question whether your current provider is the best one out there, it may be worth switching to a new one.

Reasons to change your toll-free number provider:

• Lack of customer support 
• Poor voice quality 
• High costs and calling rates
• You want to move your PBX system to the cloud
• You require advanced communication features 
• You don’t want to be tied into a lengthy contract

USA toll-free numbers are portable which means you can switch providers and keep the number that you were assigned, without losing the credibility that you have built up over the years. 

Whilst shifting to another phone carrier is relatively straightforward, there are several things you need to consider – both before and during the process.

Here we explain how to transfer your toll-free number in four easy steps.

1. Do your research

First and foremost, you need to assess all of your options and know exactly what you’re letting yourself in for before you cancel your contract. Try speaking with other businesses and asking them for recommendations. You could also read online reviews to gain insight into how carriers deal with requests.

Another thing you need to consider when transferring your USA toll-free number is your reasons for transferring. 

If you want to receive more value for your money – keep an eye out for additional features, such as translation services, professional voicing, call forwarding, recording and conferencing. And if you don’t want to make any long-term commitments, a provider that offers short minimum term contracts is favourable and will allow you to test the market.

2. Notify your existing provider 

Once you’ve decided which carrier you want to transfer your toll-free number to, and you’re confident they are the right fit for your business, you need to inform your existing carrier that you’d like to swap your number over.

It’s worth noting that some (not all) providers have termination procedures and charge a fee to transfer numbers. Making contact with them as soon as possible will save you from unexpected downtime and enable them to get everything sorted at their end – ensuring that your number is transferred quickly and smoothly. 

3. Allocate plenty of time

The process of transferring toll-free numbers can vary anywhere between a couple of days to several weeks, which is why you must give both providers ample time when moving your 1-800 number.

You need to make sure that your new provider can provision your USA toll-free number quickly and that you can leave your existing contract without penalty. These things can be unpredictable, so you need to be prepared to wait. However, a sure-fire way to speed everything up is to have all your details ready at hand.

4. Communicate with your new provider

The fourth and final step is to complete a Responsible Organisation Charge Authorisation form – otherwise known as a RespOrgs form – and send it to your new carrier. 

You must fill out all of the information regarding your company and your current provider accurately. Be sure to double-check everything is correct before you send it off as a single error could make all the difference between your transfer request being accepted and rejected.

It usually depends on the provider, but some require additional information, such as proof of ownership of the number and a copy of your most recent phone bill. A top tip is to gather all the necessary documents before you start the process to ensure a smooth and successful transition. 

Transfer your USA toll-free number today

Following these four simple steps, you should have no problem transferring your toll-free number. However, if you’re yet to find a provider that can accommodate your needs entirely, be sure to visit G-Tele. 

Not only are they a leading provider of USA toll-free numbers and local telephone numbers in more than 100 countries, but they also provide some of the best tariffs around and offer a 1-month minimum term. You can trust that when you port your number to them, you’re in capable hands. So, why not get in touch and discuss your needs in further detail today? They offer a variety of value-added services too.