[asterisk-users] Re: Number forwarding and porting?

[Allen Casteran]

Lorell Hathcock wrote:
> I am looking to move cell phone providers.  I have acquired the new cell 
> phone and LOVE my new number but want to keep the old number as well.  
> The new provider only will allow me to use one number or the other.  
> They will port the old number if I want, but will keep my new number if 
> I ask them to port the old one.
>  
> Where can I go to get the old number ported from my old provider (the 
> account is still active) and have it forwarded on to my new number (for 
> cheap)?
>  

Cell phones can only have one number attached to them (at least in the 
US). You can port any US number to any other local phone line within the 
same rate center (local switch area). Cellular phones can accept ANY US 
number. You pay a charge for LNP features on every bill so the carrier 
can not refuse unless it is to a land line out of the area of the number.

If you want both numbers to ring to your cell phone you can get a 
carrier to do a call forward. CLEC's or call centers are best for this. 
They port the number from your old cell carrier and program your old 
number to forward all calls to your new cell number. Your outbound calls 
will have to carry the caller ID of the number assigned to your cell 
phone. They can not use the call forward number for the outbound caller ID.

If you have local phone service check with that carrier for their call 
forward options.  Otherwise check with a few answering service companies 
in your area.

Allen.