> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.limecall.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.limecall.com/virtual-numbers/bring-your-number.md).

# Bring your number (porting)

Move an existing number from another provider to LimeCall.

Open **Numbers → Porting**.

Porting moves a number you already own to LimeCall, keeping the number your customers know.

You can transfer US and Canadian local numbers here. For toll-free numbers or numbers from other countries, email **<support@limecall.com>** first. We can't promise them.

## Before you start

**Do not cancel your existing service.** This is the single most important rule of porting. A cancelled number is released back to the carrier and can no longer be ported — it is simply gone. Keep the old account active and paid until the port completes.

## What you need

**A recent bill** from your current provider, from the last 30 days, showing the number and the account name.

**The account number and PIN**, if your provider uses them. The form tells you after you check the number. Some providers call it a transfer or port-out PIN.

**A signed letter of authorisation.** If you don't have one, we'll send you one to sign.

**Matching details.** The name and service address must match your provider's records exactly. Include the suite or unit number if the bill has one.

## Submit the request

1. Open **Numbers → Porting**.
2. Enter the number and choose **Check**.
3. Fill in the account details and upload your bill and signed letter.
4. Choose **Send transfer request**.

## How long it takes

Transfers usually take 7–14 days once your current provider accepts them. Treat any date as provisional until your provider confirms it.

## If it is rejected

Rejections are common and usually clerical:

* Name or address does not match the carrier's records.
* Account number or PIN wrong.
* A pending order on the account at the losing carrier.
* The number is part of a bundle that must be split first.
* Outstanding balance on the account.

We'll tell you what needs fixing. Correct it and resubmit — a rejection does not prevent a fresh attempt.

## Partial ports

If you are porting some numbers from an account but not all, say so explicitly. Porting the main billing number of an account can disconnect the others.

## On the day

Porting completes during a cutover window. There may be a short period where calls route unpredictably.

Plan for it: pick a quiet time of day, have a colleague available to test immediately, and do not port on the morning of a campaign launch.

## After it completes

1. Configure who answers it — see [Call forwarding & routing](/virtual-numbers/call-forwarding-and-routing.md).
2. Test inbound calls and, if applicable, SMS.
3. Set caller ID — see [Caller ID](/virtual-numbers/caller-id.md).
4. **Then** cancel the old service.

{% hint style="info" %}
US numbers need separate carrier registration before they can send messages, even after porting. See [US carrier registration (10DLC)](/virtual-numbers/us-carrier-registration.md).
{% endhint %}