Hosting vs Porting Phone Numbers
Porting and hosting numbers.
When you sign up for Avochato, you can choose a new number in your area code or transfer an existing number you already own. There are two ways to transfer a number: hosting and porting.
Please note that both hosting and porting can impact timing of the A2P registration process.
Host: Text-Enable Your Existing Number
Hosting allows Avochato to text-enable your number without disturbing any existing call functionality. However, this means that you will not be able to place or receive calls from this number in Avochato.
How do I host a phone number?
To get started, email our support team at help@avochato.com with the following information:
- Phone number
- Address associated with the phone number
- Contact name, title, phone number and email
Our team will send you a Letter of Authorization (LOA) to review, sign, and return. Once the signed LOA is submitted, we'll begin processing the host.
How long does hosting take?
Hosting typically takes 24–72 hours to complete once the signed LOA has been submitted. Exact timing depends on the previous carrier.
Port: Transfer Your Number Fully to Avochato
Porting transfers your existing phone number away from your current carrier and into Avochato. Any kind of phone number can be ported (mobile or landline). Once ported, the number will exist only in Avochato and will no longer work with your previous carrier.
What is needed to port my phone number to Avochato?
To port your phone number to Avochato, begin the process by completing our porting request form. To submit your request you will need:
- A completed and signed Letter of Authorization form
- A copy of a recent phone bill
- Your account number and PIN with your current carrier
Once you submit your request, our team will file the port with our messaging provider. If the information is confirmed by your existing carrier, a porting date will be scheduled within 2–4 weeks and we'll email you with the details.
If more information is required or your carrier rejects the application, we'll reach out to you by email.
How long does the porting process take?
You can expect your port to be completed within 2-4 weeks. Often, this depends on factors beyond our control (ie. communication between carriers).
Will there be any downtime for the phone number?
There is usually a small window of about 2 hours during which your phone number will be offline. As soon as we know when the port is scheduled to happen, we will let you know accordingly.
Can I take my phone number with me if I decide to cancel?
Yes, we will work with you to port your number away if you do decide to cancel your Avochato account.
Can the A2P registration be transferred along with the ported number?
No, A2P registrations cannot be transferred so this means you will have to register your number again for A2P after porting.