Pre-LNP tidbits

Nov 23 2003 - 06:32 PM ET | Number portability
Tonight is the eve of Local Number Portability, and we thought it was a good time to post the info we've been getting: * Remember that only the top 100 markets are going to have portability active tomorrow. Phone scoop has a great map of the markets. Make sure you're on the list if you plan to change. If you're not on the map, you'll probably have to wait until May 24 2004. * There will be problems. Be prepared to be patient. Most likely, the sales staff at local phone resellers will know as much or less than you do on LNP (at least on the 24th). According to our sources, Sprint PCS is the best prepared. * Amazon.com has a page on how to transfer your number if you want to get a new phone/contract through them. Very detailed. * Verizon Wireless is rumored to have 56,000+ people signed up to switch onto its network tomorrow. If this is any indication, LNP is going to be huge. * You'll probably need a new phone. There are a few sites begging to recycle your old one--let one. * Remember that you can't just switch carriers if you're still under contract. Most carriers will make you pay out the contract, which will quickly evaporate the savings of switching.