Blog Can I Transfer My Landline Number to VoIP?

You might have recently become familiar with VoIP phone systems, and are now considering making the switch for your business. 

If so – you’re probably wondering how the process works, as well as the time and financial investment it involves. Furthermore, one of the bigger questions you might have is whether you can keep your current business landline number when transferring to VoIP systems.  

If this is your current situation, the experts at Infinitel are on hand to help. We’ve crafted our very own blog discussing the process of transferring your landline number over to a VoIP system. Read on to find out more. 

How does VoIP work?

VoIP calls work by converting the voice of the caller (of a regular telephone) into a digital signal. 

When a caller dials a number, the call is transferred to the router from the device. This is where it reaches the VoIP phone server and is passed through the local internet to the router of the recipient. 

Why should you consider keeping your business landline number when switching to a VoIP phone system?

There are several reasons businesses choose to keep their business landline number when making the switch to a VoIP phone system. For example:

Helps maintain customers

One reason to consider keeping your business phone number is that it helps maintain your existing customers. If you change numbers, it can be harder for customers to get in touch with you. 

No matter how hard you advertise your new number, there’s likely going to be a chance that some customers won’t get the message/ be able to obtain it. Keeping your phone number means that you can prevent this from happening.

Easier than setting up a new system

Whilst the actual process of switching your phone number won’t actually be that difficult, as mentioned above, marketing this change to your existing customers isn’t as simple.

You’ll have to make changes on other promotional materials, as well as your website, email signatures, and business cards. All of which will cost significant time and money. 

Saves time

As we’ve already discussed, keeping your business phone number can help save you time, as you won’t have to go through the hassle of updating your existing contact information. 

This time can then be spent on more valuable endeavours for your business, such as attracting customers or recruiting new members of staff. 

So…can I transfer my landline number to VoIP?

Yes, you can transfer your landline phone number to a VoIP system, this is a process known as porting. Fortunately for your business, it’s not something you will likely have to do as your network will handle the difficult parts for you. But, you still need to take several steps and provide certain pieces of information…

How do you switch your landline number to VoIP?

To switch your landline number to a VoIP phone system, take the following steps: 

Choose a provider

Firstly, you need to pick a VoIP phone provider. Take a look at a variety to ensure you’re getting a good idea of what they can offer. If you plan on switching your number, it’s ideal to pick one that offers a free porting service. 

Create your set up

Now you’ve chosen a provider, it’s time to create your set up. Simply plug the VoIP phone adapter provided to you into your existing business phone system, or new VoIP phone. 

Port your number

The most important part in this process; it’s time to port your number. Get in touch with your current VoIP provider to find out the details of organising this. You’ll need to submit your current landline information, as well as signing a porting authorisation form. 

Infinitel’s do’s and don’ts when transferring your landline number to a VoIP phone system:

• DO ensure you pick a provider who offers a porting service (most do and will)
• DON’T cancel the old telephone provider until the new number has been ported
• DO look on review websites like TrustPilot and read testimonials about the providers you consider using

Transferring landline number to VoIP: FAQs 

How much does transferring a landline number to VoIP cost?

How much it costs when transferring a landline number to a VoIP phone system will vary. 

Some providers offer it as a free service when you sign up to them, others might ask for a charge per line transferred. In these situations, prices can range from £10-£20 per line transferred. 

How long does phone porting take?

Again, how long phone porting takes depends on the provider you choose.

Typically, this will just be one working day for a small business. Large businesses might have to wait multiple working days, however. 

Looking for a leading business telecommunications provider? Choose Infinitel today 

If you’re looking to choose a VoIP phone system for your business, Infinitel is here to help. 

We are more than equipped to help you tackle the process of switching to a VoIP phone system, as well as using our expertise to source the best system for you and your business. 

No matter your business size, industry, or budget – reach out to Infinitel today to secure the best phone system for your business.