Porting a Toll Free Number: A Comprehensive Guide
Welcome to Bigfoot Voice! In this article, we'll walk you through the process of porting a toll-free number to our hosted IP PBX service. This guide will help you understand what porting is, why it matters, and what you can expect during the process.
What is Porting a Toll Free Number?
Porting a toll-free number involves moving your existing toll-free number from your current service provider to Bigfoot Voice. This allows you to keep your established business number while enjoying the benefits of our advanced IP PBX service.
Why Port a Toll Free Number?
Porting a toll-free number ensures a seamless transition to Bigfoot Voice without disrupting your business communications. It allows you to maintain your established business identity while taking advantage of our reliable, cost-effective, and feature-rich service.
What's Involved in Porting a Toll Free Number?
To port a toll-free number, you'll need to provide a Signed Letter of Authorization (LOA), your current carrier name and account number, the toll-free number(s) you want to port, and a desired port date (minimum 7-15 business days for toll-free numbers).
The Porting Process
- Step 1: Collect the LOA signed by the authorized user on the account.
- Step 2: Submit the port request to Flowroute with the LOA, account information, and requested Firm Order Commitment (FOC) date.
- Step 3: Flowroute submits the request to the RespOrg (responsible organization) for the toll-free number.
- Step 4: The RespOrg reviews the request and either issues the FOC date or rejects it (common reasons for rejection include LOA mismatch, unauthorized signer, or wrong account number).
- Step 5: If rejected, correct and resubmit the request.
- Step 6: On the FOC date, the number routes to Bigfoot Voice.
- Step 7: Verify inbound calls route correctly and update your dialplan/IVR as needed.
Toll Free Specifics
Toll-free ports go through the RespOrg, not the Local Exchange Carrier (LEC) like local numbers. The typical timeline is 7-15 business days after the FOC. No partial ports are allowed – all toll-free numbers on an LOA must port together. The customer is responsible for any early termination fees with the losing carrier. Toll-free numbers cannot be ported if there is a pending disconnect or dispute with the current carrier.
Common Questions and Issues
Q: Can I port my local number as well as my toll-free number?
A: Yes, you can port both local and toll-free numbers to Bigfoot Voice. The process is similar, but local number ports go through the LEC.
Q: Can I port my number before cancelling service with my current provider?
A: No, you should not cancel service with your current provider until the porting process is complete.
Q: What happens if my request is rejected?
A: If your request is rejected, you'll need to correct any issues and resubmit the request. Common reasons for rejection include LOA mismatch, unauthorized signer, or wrong account number.
Q: How long does the porting process take?
A: The typical timeline for toll-free number ports is 7-15 business days after the FOC.
How Bigfoot Voice Handles Porting
At Bigfoot Voice, we handle the porting process with care, ensuring a smooth transition for your business communications. Our team will guide you through the process, answering any questions and addressing any issues that may arise.
Thank you for choosing Bigfoot Voice for your IP PBX needs! If you have any further questions about porting a toll-free number, please don't hesitate to contact our support team.