Switching Long Distance Carriers

What happens after you initiate your order?

"The verification" Most states require you to go through a verification process. This normally takes the form of an automated call that restates the terms of your new service and ask you to verify that you want to be switched to this service.You will not be switched to your new service until after this is completed.

The "PIC" code

Primary Interexchange Carrier (PIC) this is the code your local phone company uses to route your calls through to your long distance carrier. After you have verified your request to switch,some carriers will give you this code to give to your local phone company. Most carriers though,will submit their pic code for you.It is normally best to let this happen to avoid any delays with the starting of your new service.

How long should it take?

It can take anywhere from 1-10 business days before your service is switched. Why is this? First your new carrier must create your new account and submit its pic code to your local phone company.Then it depends on the amount of time it takes your local phone company to update your account with this new pic code. Give your new carrier a call if it has been more than 10 days.

A "PIC FREEZE" is the most common cause for delays.This means you have requested that your local phone company not switch your long distance carrier without your permission. You will need to have the "PIC FREEZE" removed before a switch can be made.

Verify the switch with a simple call

By calling 1-700-555-4141 you can check your line to see who is carrying your long distance calls.If you hear something unexpected,call your new carrier to verify that you got the correct result.

Successfully switched...Now what?

After you know for certain that you have been switched to you new carrier, and everything is working fine,you should contact your old carrier and cancel service with them.This should happen automatically,but it is still a good idea to make sure to avoid any further charges from them. Again I remind you DO NOT do this until you know you are switched to your new carrier.You could be stranded without a long distance carrier.

What else?

You may be charged a "PIC Switching fee" by your local phone company for handling your switch.Some long distance carriers will refund you this fee and some will not.

As soon as you are satisfied with your new carrier have your local phone company place a "Pic Freeze" on your line.This will prevent "slamming" the unauthorized switching of your long distance.

Look over your first bill carefully to make sure you are getting the rates you you agreed to.