Can You Transfer Your Phone to a New Carrier? (And Should You?)

Transferring your phone (and number) over to a new carrier is a lot less mysterious than most tech blogs would have you believe. You don’t need a PhD in SIM-card-ology, just a few key steps and a dash of curiosity. So let’s answer the real questions: Can you transfer your phone to a new carrier? And should you? Short answer: Probably. But you know we’ve got the details for you.

So you're ready for a change of carrier scenery, but don’t want to shell out for a new phone. Totally understandable. 

Maybe you just want a better plan. Maybe you want to stick it to your current carrier. Maybe your current phone case is your emotional support item, and you’re just not mentally ready for a big change like that. Whatever your reason, let’s get you sorted.

What “Bring Your Own Phone” Actually Means

You’ll see “bring your own phone” (BYOP) everywhere, especially if you’re checking out new phone plans. All it really means is that you use your own phone with a different carrier’s plan. 

You don’t need to buy a new phone unless you want to. But, (there’s always a “but,” right?) carriers will sometimes lock your phone so it only works with their network. (Classic cringy behavior.)

This locking is a holdover from the days when phones were heavily discounted in exchange for contracts. Now, unlocking your phone is pretty common, but you still need to check a few things before you go SIM-swapping.

U.S. Laws, Carrier Rules, and Unlocking: The Quick Version

So, is it legal to unlock your phone? (In the U.S.) it totally is! In fact, the FCC says you have the right to ask your carrier to unlock your phone – as long as you’ve paid it off, your contract is up, and your phone isn’t flagged as sketchy (lost or stolen).

The FCC is even looking at rules that would require all phones to be unlockable just 60 days after activation. Most major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile make it pretty straightforward:

• Verizon: Most new phones unlock automatically after 60 days.
• AT&T: Unlocks as soon as your phone is paid off and your account is issue-free.
• T-Mobile (and old Sprint customers): After 40 days, your phone is generally eligible, as long as your bill is paid up.

Bottom line: Once your phone is paid off and not flagged for anything shady, unlocking is a quick request away.

How to Check if Your Phone Can Be Transferred to a New Carrier

Before you start picking out new phone plans, make sure your current phone is unlocked and ready to mingle with a new carrier. Here’s your pre-move checklist:

1. Find out if your phone is unlocked

You can usually check this in your phone’s settings. On iPhones, head to Settings > General > About and scroll down to “Carrier Lock.” If it says “No SIM restrictions,” you’re free. For Android, the process varies a bit, but many models will show SIM status under Network Settings.

2. Check your IMEI status

Your IMEI is your phone’s unique ID. It needs to be clean, not blacklisted (which happens if a phone is reported lost or stolen), not under financing, and not blocked for any reason. 

To get your IMEI, find your IMEI, open the Phone app, dial *#06# on your keypad. Then *poof* your IMEI number will instantly appear. Magical! If that doesn’t work try checking your Google account for Android users.

3. Make sure your phone works on the new network

Even unlocked phones have to “speak the same language” as your new carrier. That means checking that your phone supports the network bands and tech used by your new plan, especially if you want 5G or strong coverage everywhere.

Most carrier websites have a BYOD compatibility checker. Plug in your phone’s IMEI or model number for an instant answer.

4. SIM or eSIM?

Older phones usually use a physical SIM - a little chip that’s now tucked away deep inside the phone. If you’re a millennial or older, you’ll remember when SIM cards could pop out of a phone and be physically swapped. You might also remember a time when your neck didn’t hurt from ‘sleeping wrong’. Ah, youth.

Newer phones often use an eSIM now. It’s the same as a SIM card - just digital instead of physical. Like the cloud … kind of. 

Your new plan will tell you what’s required. If you’re moving from one to the other, just ask your carrier for help with the swap.

Step-By-Step: How To Transfer Phone Number To A New Carrier

Ready to switch? Here’s the Goji playbook for a smooth move that even your grandma can handle.

Before you switch:

1. Call your current carrier. Double-check your phone’s lock status and settle up any remaining payments.
2. Ask for the unlock if you need it. Some carriers do this instantly, others might take their sweet time.
3. Back up everything important: contacts, photos, memes, the works.
4. Update your phone’s software for good measure.

During the switch:

1. Pick your new plan. Decide whether you want prepaid (pay as you go) or postpaid (monthly bill).\
2. Order your new SIM or eSIM. To transfer your phone number, you’ll need a few details from your old account (account number, PIN, and billing ZIP code).
3. Activate your new SIM/eSIM once it arrives.
4. Test your calls, texts, and data. Make sure everything works where you need it.

After the switch:

Keep an eye on your phone for a few days to make sure the vibes are good. Is the signal strong? Are all your features working (hotspot, Wi-Fi calling, etc.)?
Stay on top of software updates, especially if your phone is a few years old.

Pros & Cons of Bringing Your Phone to a New Carrier

Sometimes holding onto your current phone is the smart (and wallet-friendly) move. But not always. Here’s how to decide:

Keeping your phone makes sense when:
Your phone is less than a few years old, still gets updates, and runs all the features you care about.
You like your phone and just want a cheaper or better plan.
You want to save money and avoid the e-waste of a new phone.

But…
Older phones may not support the latest network tech (like 5G).
You might miss out on new features, longer battery life, or software updates.
Trade-in values can actually make a new phone pretty affordable if you’re ready for an upgrade.

If your phone struggles with battery life, won’t run the latest apps, or can’t connect to the bands your new carrier uses, that’s your cue to start browsing for something new.

Key Questions Before You Switch

Before you add to cart - let’s make sure you’re ready, willing, and able to make the switch. Answering these questions before taking action will reduce your phone-plan-related stress levels by at least 87%*.

• Is my phone unlocked (or can I get it unlocked)?
• Is it fully paid off and out of contract?
• Is my IMEI clean and clear?
• Does my phone support my new carrier’s network bands and tech?
• Will I need a new SIM or eSIM?
• Are there any fees for unlocking or porting my number?
• What features might I lose with a different carrier (Wi-Fi calling, visual voicemail, etc.)?
• Does my new carrier have strong coverage where I live, work, and hang out?

*We totally made that statistic up - but it feels right.

Frequently Asked Questions on Transferring Your Phone to a New Carrier

Can I bring a used phone to a new carrier?

Absolutely, as long as it’s unlocked, not blacklisted (not stolen), and supports your carrier’s network.

What if my phone is still on an installment plan?

You’ll need to pay it off before most carriers will unlock it.

Is there a fee to unlock my phone?

Most carriers won’t charge, but ask just in case.

Will I need a new SIM or eSIM?

Usually, yes. Your new carrier will provide what you need.

What if my phone doesn’t support 5G or specific bands?

You’ll still get service, just not all the fastest speeds or features.

Can I keep my phone number when switching carriers?

Yes! Just don’t cancel your old plan until your number has been transferred.