Number Porting Guide -What to Expect and How We Work With You
Purpose
This guide explains how CallTower manages number porting and what is needed from you to ensure a smooth and timely transition of your phone numbers.
Number porting is a coordinated process involving CallTower, your current carrier, and industry partners. Clear information, accurate documentation, and timely communication are essential to avoid delays and service disruption.
This guide applies to:
- Domestic, toll‑free, and international ports
- Customers both before and after service activation
Overview of Number Porting at CallTower
Local Number Portability (LNP) allows you to keep your existing phone numbers when moving service to CallTower.
Porting is a multi‑step process that depends on:
- Accurate information from your current carrier
- Proper setup of your CallTower services
- Coordination with external carriers
A successful port requires:
- Complete and correct documentation
- Clear confirmation of dates and timing
- Coordination between all parties involved
Getting Started: What We Need From You
Providing accurate information upfront is the most important step in a successful port.
Before your request is submitted, we will confirm:
- Your account status and readiness
- That all required documents are complete and current
- That the requested port date falls within standard timelines
If any information is missing or incorrect, the port may be delayed until it is corrected.
What CallTower Does During the Porting Process
Once your request is submitted:
- CallTower submits your port request to your current carrier
- Your carrier reviews the request and either approves it or requests corrections
- Once approved, your carrier provides a Firm Order Commitment (FOC) confirming the port date
- CallTower prepares your service so numbers can be activated on the scheduled date
On the day of the port:
- The port is monitored to completion
- Test calls are performed when possible
- You are notified once the port is complete
Porting Timelines & Operating Hours
Standard Operating Hours
Porting activity is scheduled during the following times:
- Monday–Thursday: 8:00am–5:00pm ET
- Friday: 8:00am–2:00pm ET
Submission Lead Times
- Domestic DID & Toll‑Free (US/Canada):
- Minimum 8 business days before requested port date
- Maximum 30 days out
- International ports:
- Typically require 30 days before the requested port date
Carrier Response Time Estimates
Carrier response times vary and are outside CallTower’s control:
- Domestic ports
- 1–50 numbers: ~8–10 business days
- 50–199 numbers: ~15–20 business days
- 200+ numbers: ~20 business days
- International ports
- Initial update: ~12–14 business days
- FOC confirmation: ~20–25 business days (barring rejections)
Rejections & Resubmissions
If a port request is rejected:
- The issue must be corrected and resubmitted
- The timeline restarts once resubmitted
- A new port date may be required
Required Documentation & Quality Standards
Required Documents
To submit a port request, the following are required:
- Letter of Authorization (LOA)
- Signed and dated within the last 30 days
- Must list all numbers being ported
- Invoice or Customer Service Record (CSR)
- Dated within the last 30 days
Incomplete or outdated documents are a common cause of delays.
Number Formatting Requirements
- Domestic numbers: 10‑digit format, no spaces or special characters
- International numbers: Listed individually with country code (no “+”)
Port Dates
- A requested port date is required for all ports
- Dates must fall within standard operating hours and timelines
International Porting Requirements
International ports often require additional documentation, which varies by country.
Examples may include:
- Country‑specific LOA forms
- Proof of identity
- Business registration documents
- Full service address
These requirements must be provided before submission to avoid delays.
Tools & Systems Used by CallTower
To manage your port, CallTower uses industry‑standard systems to:
- Track your request
- Coordinate with carriers
- Prepare your service for activation
You do not need direct access to these systems — CallTower manages this on your behalf.
Support & Resources
If you have questions during the porting process:
- Your CallTower representative will keep you informed of progress
- Additional information may be requested if required by your carrier
Helpful resources:
Final Note
Number porting is a regulated process involving multiple carriers and systems. While timelines may vary, providing complete and accurate information upfront greatly reduces delays and helps ensure a smooth transition.
CallTower is committed to guiding you through the process and minimizing disruption whenever possible.
