7 Tips to Transfer Internet Service
Table of Contents
- Step 1: Tell Your ISP You’re Moving
- Step 2: Look for Discounts or Deals
- Step 3: Set up Your Installation
- Step 4: Backup Your Documents
- Step 5: Prepare to be Offline
- Step 6: Get Your Internet Set-Up
- Step 7: Run A Speed Test
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Moving? Packing up your whole home to move can be overwhelming. There are a lot of pieces to keep track of — including your internet connection. Knowing when to set up internet when moving can be a confusing piece of an already stressful process.
So how do you move your internet service? We break down when you should tell your internet service provider, how to set up your installation, tips to keep you working smoothly, and why speed tests are important. But how exactly do you move your internet? We put together a quick guide of how to transfer internet when moving.
Step 1: Tell Your Internet Service Provider You’re Moving
Regardless of where you’re moving, you’ll need to tell your current internet service provider that you’re making a change. Most ISPs recommend starting this process at least two weeks in advance to your move. That way, you have plenty of time to schedule an activation date and set up installation.
If you’re happy with your current ISP, you’ll also be able to find out if your new address is serviceable. If it is, then you should be able to transfer your internet service to the new address. Double-checking is important even if you’re moving within the same town or area. As a bonus, you might be able to get faster speeds with your internet address change.
Sometimes your ISP may not be available at your new address. This can cause a lot of confusion for consumers and can result in cancellation fees if your contract isn’t done. It’s important for consumers to understand how to switch internet providers intelligently. If your move is required by work or military service, you should ask your provider about waiving cancellation fees.
Considering switching ISPs? We have all the information you need on how to choose the right internet plan, from speed to data concerns. (Psst — if you’re in the market for a new internet provider, we offer the most coverage across the country.)
Step 2: Look for Discounts or Deals
As a consumer, it’s important to get the best service you can for the best deal possible. Many ISPs offer deals to potential customers to switch their internet provider. This is especially true during the summer moving season.
Step 3: Set Up Your Installation
When you’ve chosen a service provider and high-speed internet plan, you’ll need to plan for installation. Some providers will need you to be home while they install your new service, so choose a time that’s convenient for you.
If you’re able to self-install your internet, make sure your provider ships the equipment to the right address. An ideal scenario is having an overlap in your internet service. This allows you to stay connected in both homes while you move. If that’s not possible, you may be able to use your phone’s hotspot while you’re waiting for installation.
Step 4: Back Up Your Documents
Whenever you make a big change to your internet service — or your devices — make sure your important documents are backed up. You can do this manually, through an external hard drive, or you can opt for an automated backup system. An automated system will copy your information to the cloud, which is a secure server. It keeps your information safe without having to remember to make a copy.
Some ISPs offer data backup solutions or cloud storage for their customers. If you have this set up but need to change ISPs, consider moving everything bit by bit. Migrating massive amounts of data takes time, so we recommend breaking it up into smaller pieces. That way, you reduce the chances of something getting lost in the shuffle.
Step 5: Prepare to be Offline
Scheduling internet activation ahead of time will reduce the chances that you’ll be stuck offline. But you might still have a few hours of spotty internet while your moving expert gets you set up with new internet equipment.
If your job needs a cloud system (such as Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive), download any important files you might need. However, most of these systems require you to configure it for every document, so make sure you have that set up before moving day.
You should also download your favorite streaming entertainment. Not having internet may make it difficult to enjoy music, shows, or books on your smart devices. If all else fails, you could take the time to unpack some of those pesky boxes.
Step 6: Get Your Internet Set-up
By this point, you should have a time scheduled with your ISP for installation. Make sure someone is home during that time frame and that you’ve cleared the area they need to set up the internet equipment. If you have a self-install service, follow your instructions and set up the router in a place that is easily accessible.
You may be wondering, is it different setting up internet in a new apartment compared to a home? The installation process is mostly similar with some minor differences. Many apartment communities have one or two primary providers and may even negotiate deals for their community. Otherwise, you still have similar internet activation processes.
Step 7: Run a Speed Test
This step is especially important if you’ve self-installed your new internet service. Find a free internet speed test and rest assured that yes, speed tests work. A speed test measures the upload and download speeds of your internet. Speeds determine how fast you can send and receive online information, and how long you’ll have to wait for it.
Internet speed tests are an accurate way to determine if you’re getting the internet speeds you’re paying for. Most high-speed internet plans do fluctuate throughout the day, but your results should be close to what your internet service provider advertised.
You can run a speed test through your browser and receive your results in about 60 seconds. If it’s close to your plan, that’s it! If it’s slower than it should be, consider retesting at a different time or location. If it’s still slow, it might be worth calling your ISP.
If you follow these tips, you should have one less thing to worry about while moving. If you’ve got questions about more moving tips, enter your email at the top of the page to download our moving checklist — it’s got everything you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my internet router to another house?
The short answer is, it depends. Some people buy and own their router. If this is you, then yes, you can bring it with you wherever you go.
However, if you rent a router from your ISP you may not be able to bring it with you. We recommend reaching out to your provider for more information.
How much does it cost to transfer my internet service?
If you’re keeping the same provider most ISPs will waive your installation fee if you’re just moving addresses. If you’re changing providers, you may have to pay installation fees.
Conclusion
If you’re ready to switch to a high-speed home internet plan with no credit checks, get in touch with EarthLink today at 866-618-0414. Are you a current customer? Call one of our moving experts at 844-921-8141 to get the transfer process started.