8 global number porting issues and how to solve them

Switching voice providers doesn’t mean losing your number. Number porting lets you keep your existing number, so you don’t have to update your contacts.Businesses rely on smooth number porting to avoid service disruptions and customer frustration.

While the process should be simple, it often has roadblocks that delay or even prevent a successful transfer. Understanding the most common pitfalls can help you avoid unnecessary issues. From missing information to carrier rejections, here’s what you need to know about number porting issues—and how to avoid them.

1. Inactive numbers cause delays

An inactive, suspended, or disconnected phone number cannot be ported. This often leads to unexpected delays. Before requesting a port, confirm with your current provider that the number is active. If it has been suspended or disconnected, resolve any outstanding issues and reactivate it first.

Pro tip: Work with a provider that offers number portability checks before submission.

2. Unauthorized or incorrect requests get rejected

Carriers reject porting requests if the requester lacks authorization or if business details don’t match provider records. To avoid delays, ensure the requester has the proper permissions, typically verified through a letter of authorization (LOA), and make sure that all account details—including the business name and address—match exactly with your provider’s records.

Pro tip: Request a customer service record (CSR) from your provider to verify details before submitting your request.

3. Incompatible services may not transfer

Sometimes, not all services move over when you port a number. You might transfer the voice service to the new provider, but text and fax services may remain with the old provider. This can cause service disruptions. Before porting, verify with your current provider that all services linked to your number will also transfer to your new provider. Also, confirm that your new provider supports all necessary services.

Pro tip: Work with a provider that supports full-service transfers to prevent gaps in coverage.

4. Carrier delays and restrictions slow down the process

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires providers to process simple ports within one business day. If it is not a simple port, it can take a few days. However, some providers delay responses. Others may block ports due to contract terms or outstanding balances.

If your current provider hasn’t responded, make sure to follow up regularly and escalate as needed.

Pro tip: Working with a reliable provider can make a difference, as they actively manage the process and ensure timely responses.

5. Hidden fees and lack of transparency create uncertainty

Some carriers charge unexpected fees to port numbers, while others fail to provide real-time updates on porting status. This can leave businesses in the dark about where their requests stand. Before porting, confirm any potential charges and work with a provider that offers clear, upfront pricing and real-time tracking.

Pro tip: Work with a provider that offers full visibility into the porting process.

6. Regulatory and documentation roadblocks delay international porting

Porting regulatory requirements and processing time will vary on a country by country basis with added complexity, varying processing times, and additional documentation requirements. Failing to account for these differences can result in rejected requests. To avoid issues, research local porting regulations in advance and prepare the necessary documents, which may include your company registration certificate and country-specific LOA, to name a few.

Pro tip: Work with a provider with global regulatory knowledge who can guide you through the process.

7. Poor planning can lead to service downtime

If not managed properly, number porting can lead to temporary service interruptions. Businesses that rely on constant phone availability should plan ahead by coordinating the porting date.

Pro tip: Schedule your porting for non-peak hours, and confirm with your new provider when activation will be completed.

8. Poor provider support makes porting more stressful

Unresponsive customer support can make number porting more stressful and time-consuming. Delays, missing information, or unexpected errors can be hard to resolve if your provider doesn’t offer timely assistance.

Pro tip: Choose a provider with a dedicated porting team that can quickly address issues.

How Telnyx makes number porting easier

Porting issues don’t have to slow down your business. Successful number porting starts with the right preparation and the right provider. With Telnyx, you get:

✅ FastPort automation to minimize manual work.
✅ Portability check to confirm eligibility before you submit.
✅ Real-time tracking, so you always know your request status.
✅ Seamless porting for global numbers.
✅ No hidden fees—port your number for free.
✅ A dedicated support team to handle disputes and carrier pushbacks.