If you’re setting up a new business phone system, you can either get a new number or port your existing number. While porting doesn’t raise many issues if it’s your private number, doing it for your business requires some consideration. If you’re thinking about porting a number, you need to know the pros and cons of the process.

But before that, let us explain what porting means. Porting a number means carrying your existing number to a new network. This ensures that customers have access to the best telecom providers without having to change their numbers. It also makes sure that mobile network operators have to provide seamless connectivity and competitive rates to their customers.

Pros of porting a business number

Communication consistency

In all likelihood, you’ve been using your business number in all your communication. Your customers and business partners are used to it by now. When you port your business number, you don’t have to worry about informing them.

Your customer engagement will go on uninterrupted. This is especially beneficial if you are porting your customer support number.

No need for new collaterals

If you change your number, you’ll have to inform your customers, business partners, office staff and even regulatory authorities if it’s your primary number. This involves changing your marketing collaterals including posters, banners, leaflets, menus, social media pages, online profiles and your shop front signages.

When you port, you make significant savings on those needless expenses.

Simple process

Porting a number is a straightforward process that places the responsibility on the telecom provider. If you’re in the UK, all you’ve got to do is approach your existing provider and request a Porting Authorisation Code or PAC.

Once you get your PAC, you can share it with your new provider and in a few days, your porting will be complete.

Saves you time

Other than all the expenses involved in rebranding your communication with the new number, you’ll also spend considerable time informing your business partners, family, and friends. For a small business owner, every minute you’re not spending on your core projects is both time and money wasted. When you port, you’re saving time, money and avoiding the unnecessary hassle of having to inform everyone.

Cons of porting a business number

Delay

Although the process of porting is simple, you’ll have to wait for your new number to get activated. In some cases, it could take up to a week, not counting weekends or holidays.

If it’s your customer support number or the only number for your business associates to call you, this delay will create a vacuum.

Takes time to familiarise

While you do retain your existing number, it will take time to get used to the new operating system and service provider. If you use an app from the telecom provider to pay bills, select plans etc., it will take you some time and effort to familiarise yourself with the new system.

Lose out on offers

As an existing and loyal customer, you may either enjoy offers from your provider or could be on the verge of getting discounts and offers. When porting a number, you’ll lose out on these.

Unpredictable coverage

You’re used to the connectivity of your current provider. You know where the signal strength may be strong or weak. With a new network provider, you won’t know the quality of the signal strength at home, work or in your locality.

Second-line apps: an alternative

While porting a number is a relatively effortless option, getting a second phone number makes better sense. You’ll have a dedicated number for your business contacts, customers, and staff. You’ll also get extra features like call queuing, voicemail and auto-reply features with a second-line app.

Importantly, you don’t have to buy a new phone or wait for your new number to get activated. You can download the app and get started in a few minutes.

In short

Porting a number is the right decision if your new provider has better offers and connectivity. But if you want value-added services and a dedicated business number, a second-line app is a better choice.