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A new ruling presented by the FCC, referred to as wireless local number portability (WLNP), allows wireless subscribers to change service providers within a given location while retaining the same phone number.
This rule is scheduled to take place on November 24, 2003 in the top 100 wireless markets, referred to as MSAs (Metropolitan Service Areas). A May 24, 2003 date is anticipated for the rest of the nation's wireless markets to apply this rule, which includes the markets within Northeast Wisconsin. The top 100 markets will serve as testing grounds for the new rule and will help pave the way for a smooth transition process.
To learn more about Wireless Number Portability, please read the WLNP consumer fact sheet or visit the FCC website
Q: When is WNP an option to customers?
A: At this time, WNP is scheduled to be available to customers in the top 100 markets on November 24, 2003 and to all other markets on May 24, 2004. Cellcom does not operate in any of the 100 top markets, so the tentative date of availability will be next spring. Our markets are not affected by the November 24th date, except in regards to customers roaming on our network. It is important to note that the May 24th date is tentative. We will let you know when a firm date has been set.
Q: If a customer wishes to switch to Cellcom, can they keep their current number?
A: Maybe, depending upon the actual phone number. Example: A customer with a Milwaukee phone number could not switch to Cellcom service and keep the same number, however a customer with a "local" phone number (who has service with another carrier in one of our markets) would be able to port their number.
Q: Can a customer utilize their current phone if they switch to a new carrier?
A: Probably not. Due to programming codes, a Cellcom handset would not be functional with another carrier.
Q. Can I port my landline?
A. Yes, depending on the circumstances. Porting is driven by the local calling area and the cellular rate center. The only way to know if you can port your specific landline phone to a cellular exchange is to ask the cellular company if your landline phone number is local to the cellular exchange. Numbers can only be ported within a local calling area. For example, a Milwaukee landline number cannot be ported to become a Green Bay cellular number.
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