How to Switch to Total Wireless Without Losing Your Number

Switching wireless carriers is one of the most common reasons customers visit NovaTech Solutions in Hamden, CT. The process — called a number port — is straightforward when you know what to do. The good news: your phone number belongs to you, not your carrier. By law, you have the right to take it with you when you switch. Here's exactly how to do it without any downtime or hassle.

What Is a Number Port?

A number port (or number transfer) is the process of moving your existing phone number from your current carrier to a new one — in this case, Total Wireless. Your number stays the same. Your contacts, voicemail greeting, and everything people call you on remains identical. The only thing that changes is who your service provider is.

What You Need Before You Come In

Gather the following information before visiting NovaTech Solutions. Having it ready will make the port faster and prevent delays:

• Your current phone number — the number you want to keep
• Your current account number — found on your bill or by calling your carrier's customer service line
• Your account PIN or transfer PIN — your carrier may call this a "port-out PIN" or "security PIN." It is NOT your voicemail PIN. Call your carrier to get it if you're unsure.
• The account holder's name and billing address — must match what your current carrier has on file exactly
• A valid government-issued photo ID

The Port Process at NovaTech Solutions

Step 1 — Choose Your Total Wireless Plan

We'll help you select the right Total Wireless plan for your data usage and budget. Since you're keeping your number, all we need to set up is your SIM and account — no new number is assigned.

Step 2 — We Submit the Port Request

Our team enters your account details and submits the port request directly to Total Wireless. This kicks off the process with your current carrier on the back end.

Step 3 — Wait for Port Completion

Most ports complete within 15 to 30 minutes while you're still in the store. In some cases — particularly with some major carriers — the port finalizes within a few hours. During this window, your old service continues to work normally.

Step 4 — Confirmation and Testing

When the port completes, your phone will briefly lose signal and reconnect on the Total Wireless network. We test calls, texts, and data before you leave to confirm everything is working perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Canceling Your Old Plan Too Early

This is the most common mistake — and it can cause you to permanently lose your number. Never cancel your current service before the port is complete. Your old plan cancels automatically the moment the port finalizes.

Wrong Account PIN

Many customers confuse their voicemail PIN with their account PIN. These are different. If you're unsure of your account PIN, call your current carrier before visiting us. Most carriers can reset or tell you the PIN on the spot over the phone.

Name or Address Mismatch

The name and billing address you provide must exactly match what's on your current carrier's account. Even a minor difference (a middle initial, an abbreviated street name) can cause the port to be rejected. Double-check your billing address before coming in.

Porting a Number from a Different Account Holder

If the account is in someone else's name (a spouse, parent, or employer), that person may need to authorize the port. We can advise you on this case by case — just mention it when you arrive.

Will I Lose Service During the Switch?

In most cases, no. Your old service works right up until the moment the port completes, and then your phone switches over to Total Wireless instantly. You may see your phone lose signal briefly (about 30–60 seconds) as it reconnects to the new network — this is normal.

Can I Switch Any Phone?

You can bring your own unlocked device or buy a new one at NovaTech Solutions. If bringing your own phone, we'll verify it's compatible with Total Wireless (which uses Verizon's network) before proceeding. Most modern unlocked Android and iPhone devices are compatible.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Hundreds of Connecticut residents have switched to Total Wireless through NovaTech Solutions and saved significantly on their monthly bill. The process is fast, professional, and we handle all the paperwork. Stop by 1164 Dixwell Avenue in Hamden, Monday through Saturday, 10am–8pm, or Sunday, 12pm–6pm — no appointment needed.

Questions? Call us at +1 (201) 249-4880 before you come in.