Customer Information / Wireless number portability
Subscribe to NorthernTel cellular services and keep your current cellular phone number as long as you still live in the same local service area.

Please note that the wireless number portability project will be completed in several phases.

How will it work?

When NorthernTel will offer telephone exchanges eligible to the wireless number portability service, you will be able to transfer your number over to us in 2 easy steps:

  1. Check to see if your number is eligible for transfer in one of 3 ways:
    • By phone, by dialing toll-free 1 800 360-8555. Then, enter your 10-digit telephone number, choose the "Customer Service Department" option, and then "Cellular and Paging Services", to speak to one of our Mobility representatives.
    • By Internet
    • Or through an authorized NorthernTel dealer
  2. Visit the nearest authorized NorthernTel dealer.  They will be able to advise you on the cell phone model and rate plan that will best meet your needs. While you are there, you can also open your new cellular service account.

Important: Do NOT cancel your current service, as only active cellular numbers are eligible to be transferred.

Get a $100 credit!

If you are a customer of a competing cellular service provider and you switch to NorthernTel, you will receive a $100 credit. Click here for more details on this Welcome offer.

Things to remember when transferring your number to NorthernTel:
  • Have your current number and most recent bill handy so we can confirm that your number can be transferred.
  • Do not cancel your current service, as only active cellular numbers can be transferred.
  • Check your current contract to find out what your obligations are, including, but not limited to, the cancellation charges that will apply when you cancel your current service.

FAQs

What is wireless number portability?
Wireless number portability lets you keep your current cellular phone number, as long as you reside in the same local service area. Thus, you can keep your phone number when switching from:

  • one wireless service provider to another.

When will I be able to transfer my number to NorthernTel?
Local number portability has existed for wireline services for a number of years. On October 14, 2007, wireless number portability becomes available in certain exchanges across NorthernTel territories. Click here to find out which NorthernTel exchanges currently offer this new service.

Can any number be transferred?
Not all numbers are transferable. For example, the following cannot be transferred:

  • Inactive numbers
  • Pager numbers
  • Numbers from areas that do not support number portability

Check to see if your number is eligible for transfer in one of 3 ways:

  • By phone, by dialing toll-free 1 800 360-8555. Then, enter your 10-digit telephone number, choose the "Customer Service Department" option, and then "Cellular and Paging Services", to speak to one of our Mobility representatives.
  • By Internet.
  • Or through an authorized NorthernTel dealer.

Can I keep my phone number if I move to a different city?
No, wireless number portability is only possible within the same local calling area.

Will I need to get a new mobile phone and rate plan when I transfer my number to NorthernTel?
Yes, you will need a new mobile phone or PDA and a new rate plan when you transfer your number to NorthernTel.

Will my voicemail and other calling features keep working when I transfer my number to NorthernTel?
No. With wireless number portability, only the phone number gets transferred to NorthernTel. Features you had with your previous service provider will be disconnected, when your service is transferred. When you transfer your service, ask an authorized NorthernTel dealer about features that will let you make the most of your new phone.

It is also important to check if services such as Internet access or security systems might be affected by a phone number transfer.

Can I transfer my number if I have a contract with my current service provider?
Yes, you can transfer your number at any time. However, you should check your current contract for details on any charges, such as cancellation fees and outstanding balances, that may apply when your current service is cancelled.

How do I transfer my cellular number to NorthernTel?
To switch your number over to us, visit an authorized NorthernTel dealer. Be sure to bring your cell phone and the most recent copy of your monthly phone bill from your current service provider. Do NOT cancel your current service, as only active phone numbers can be transferred.

Can I transfer a cellular number to NorthernTel from a deactivated phone?
No. Only active cellular numbers can be transferred.

Can I transfer a pager or fax number to NorthernTel?
Pager numbers cannot be transferred. However, you can transfer a number used to send and receive faxes.