Can I keep my Number?
Absolutely! When activating your SIM, you can choose to move your existing number or get a new one. Need extra help? Check out our step-by-step video guide:
Just a heads-up:
If you choose to move your number during activation, your My48 account won’t be fully set up until your number has successfully transferred. Once the move is complete, you’ll have full access to your account and services.
For a Smooth Move:
- Make sure your phone is unlocked. Phones locked to another network won’t support your 48 SIM. Click here to view our unlock guide for more information.
- Keep your current SIM Inserted in your handset as we need to send a security code via SMS to start your number transfer.
- If your current SIM isn’t active and your unable to receive SMS to the number you want to keep, you’ll need to contact your old provider regarding your account. Your current number and SIM need to be active to move to 48.
- When submitting your request provide the correct account type with your old network provider. If the account type is incorrect then your request will be rejected. Unsure? Reach out to your old network and ask them to confirm.
Not Ready to Move Just Yet?
No problem. You can choose to take a temporary number from 48 during activation and move your existing number later - whenever it suits you.
This means you'll have service on both SIMs at the same time:
- Your old network SIM (with your current number)
- Your new 48 SIM (with a temporary number)
Once your number move completes, your old SIM will stop working, and your 48 SIM will take over - simple.
Quick Steps to Move Your Number after activation:
- Log in to your My48 account.
- Go to My Profile > Move Your Number — or click 👉 Move my number
- Enter the number you want to move (format: 08XXXXXXXX) and select Next.
- Receive the SMS with your security code (sent to your old SIM).
- Select your account type (see explanations below).
- Enter the code security code and accept the T&Cs.
- Click “Move Your Number.” Done!
Need a refresher? Watch our how-to video: Move Your Number After Activation
It's worth noting that when you activate your 48 SIM, you can opt to take a temporary number for the moment and then move your number once your account has been set up.
I’ve taken a Temporary number, but I now want to move my number.
If you took a temporary number but now want to move your old one — no worries!
Just log in to My48 > My Profile > Move Your Number, or click [here] to go straight there.
Account Types Explained:
Prepay
You topped up as needed. We’ll need to know if your account was registered (your name, address were on file) or unregistered.
Bill Pay
You paid monthly on a contract or SIM-only plan. We’ll need your account number (check an old bill or ask your provider).
Business/Family Plan
There are multiple numbers on the account. These requests take longer, and you’ll still need your bill pay account number.
We recommend choosing a temporary number during activation and then following the steps to move your number.
Number Moving Hours
You can submit your request any time, but number moves only process:
- Monday – Friday: 8am – 6pm (excl. Bank Holidays)
- Saturday – Sunday & Bank Holidays: 10am – 4pm
Processing times:
- Prepay/Bill Pay: within 2–4 hours
- Business/Family Plans: up to 24 hours (Mon – Thursday only)
I got an SMS saying there was an issue?
No stress — it usually means something didn’t match your old provider’s records (like account type).
Sign In to My48 > My Profile > Move Your Number and resubmit a new request. If your still unsure of your old account type, then we’d recommend contacting your old provider for the correct details to make sure your next request isn’t rejected too.
I didn’t get an SMS, but my number still hasn’t moved?
A few things could be causing this:
- You submitted your request outside of moving hours — it will begin once the next processing window opens.
- You’re on a Business/Family plan, these request can take up to 24 hours to complete and only during opening times.
Still stuck? Contact 48 Customer Care here - we’re happy to help.
