How to port your skype number before it’s too late

Did you catch the news about Skype? Yup, they’re shutting down.

We get it, you might be thinking ‘Oh man, what about my Skype number?’ or ‘Oh well, how do I port Skype number now?’ especially if you use it as a secondary number for work.

No one wants to start handing out a brand-new number, right?

Good news! You don’t have to lose your Skype number. Porting your Skype number is easier than you think and we’re here to walk you through it. No technical headaches, no confusing processes – just a simple way to keep your number and switch to another service like iTeleCenter.

What you need to know about number porting 

• Number porting lets you switch providers while keeping the same phone number.
• If you’re using Skype, you can move your Skype number to another VoIP or phone service like iTeleCenter without losing your contacts.
• Successfully porting your Skype number means you stay connected without any interruptions.

Looking to port your Skype number? Here’s what to do first

Porting your number should be smooth, but a little prep will take you a long way. Here’s what you need to check before making the switch:

Check for eligibility: Skype must comply with FCC rules, but they can deny your request if you have an outstanding balance or a long-term contract. Call support to clarify your status.

Assess your business needs: Why are you leaving? What do you need from your new provider? Think about features, pricing, call volume and others.

Pick the right provider: Beyond pricing, look at customer support, integrations and network reliability. For example: iTeleCenter does more than just help you port your number, we make your business run smoother.

With these steps in place, you’ll be set up for a seamless number transfer.

How to port Skype number to another provider

Moving your Skype number to a new provider?

It’s not nearly as complicated as it might seem. We’re serious, just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be golden:

Step 1: Contact your new provider

Check with your new phone company, not all of them can handle Skype numbers, so it’s super important to confirm this before you get started. Some providers might have specific rules or need extra stuff from you, so just ask them about any steps or documents they need.

Note: If you’re looking to port your Skype number to iTeleCenter, we will handle most of the porting process and formalities on your behalf.

Proof of ownership: This could be your Skype account details, the email you used to sign up or even your billing statements that show your number is active.

Account information: You’ll need your Skype account number and any other details your new provider needs to get the request going.

Step 2: Request porting authorization from Skype

Once you’ve confirmed your new provider supports Skype number porting, it’s time to request authorization from Skype.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Log into your Skype account – Head over to the Skype website or open the Skype app. Enter your credentials and sign in.
2. Navigate to account settings – Click on your profile icon and go to “Account Settings“. Look for “Manage Features” or “Phone Number”—this is where your number settings are located.
3. Request number port out – Locate the option to “Port Out” or “Transfer Your Number”. Follow the instructions, enter any required details, and submit your request.

Once submitted, Skype will process your request and notify you when it’s approved. This may take a few business days, so be prepared for a short wait before moving to the next step.

Step 3: Finalize the porting process with your new provider

Once Skype approves your port request, it’s time to work with your new provider to complete the transfer of your Skype number.

To ensure a smooth transition, your new provider will need:

• Your Skype account details (including the registered email and account number)
• The number you’re porting to verify ownership
• Any additional documents requested by the new provider

At iTeleCenter, we do most of the heavy lifting when customers port over to us – submitting the port request, verifying ownership and coordinating with Skype to transfer your number.

How long does it REALLY take to port your Skype number?

Well, the thing is – it’s not a one-size fits all type of answer.

It depends on a bunch of stuff: how fast your new providers works, the rules in your area, and even the type of phone number you’re moving.

For instance, if you’re looking to port Skype numbers to VoIP providers like iTeleCenter, you’re probably looking at anywhere between 5 to 12 days total. Don’t worry, while this process happens on the backend, you can continue using your Skype number until you’ve been ported over, no interruptions.

Here’s a general timeline for different number types:

Mobile number: 1 to 3 business days – Usually the fastest, thanks to a standardized process.

Local number: 2 to 5 business days – May take longer due to specific local regulations.

Toll-free number: 5 to 10 business days – Extra time needed for the national registry process.

International number: 5 to 10 business days – Varies based on country-specific rules and carrier agreements.

Skype number porting: The struggles & how to fix them

Okay, let’s be a little real – porting your Skype number isn’t always sunshine and rainbows.

Sometimes, you might hit a few roadblocks, it a few snags, mostly with paperwork or tech stuff.

But don’t worry .. we’ll get you through it.

1. Delays in the porting process

Let’s assume you sent all the information required to your new provider, it’s been a while and you still haven’t heard from them.  It could be because you missed a form or maybe you typed your address wrong.

The fix:

• Double check everything. Make sure your name, address, account numbers etc., are right. Typos can cause delays!
• Keep all your papers ready. Some providers might want more proof that the number is actually yours. Get those documents before you start the process.
• Try to stay on top of things. Don’t be afraid to follow up on both Skype and your new provider. Call or email them every now and then to see what’s going on.

2. Compatibility issues

Here’s another thing – not all phone services play nice with Skype numbers. They might not support porting Skype numbers.

The fix:

Before you even start the porting process, make sure your new provider can handle Skype numbers.

• If they can’t port it directly, ask if you can forward calls from your Skype number to your new number temporarily. That way, you won’t miss any calls while you transition.

Try iTeleCenter, a better alternative to Skype

Porting your Skype number doesn’t mean the end of the road.

If you need a USA or Canadian local or toll-free number for personal or business use, iTeleCenter has you covered.

With iTeleCenter you can port over and keep your Skype number active (or get a new number) while giving you all the features you actually need—call forwarding, spam protection, voicemail-to-text, business texting, and more.

Try iTeleCenter for free today.

Frequently asked questions