Common Questions to Know Before Activating a Telecom SimCard

• Dec 30, 2024
• By Alice Yi

Q: How to choose the right data plan? 
A: To select an appropriate data plan, consider your online needs. If you frequently use social media, stream media, play online games, or download large files, you might need a larger data plan. For minimal data use, a smaller plan could save costs. Estimate your needs by reviewing your past few months' data usage or ask your carrier for advice. For rare data use, 3GB might suffice; for daily use like messaging and navigation without video streaming, about 5GB should be enough; 7GB to 10GB offers a little extra; for frequent video streaming, at least 20GB or more is recommended.

Q: What are prepaid and postpaid plans?
A: In Canada, phone plans come as prepaid or postpaid. Prepaid involves paying before use, which doesn't require a credit check—just a name and email are enough. The downside is that services stop if not renewed. Postpaid plans, conversely, allow you to use services first and pay later, requiring ID and a credit check. Generally, you receive a bill to pay later. However, because of the credit check, obtaining a number takes about one working day.

Q: Can existing customers enjoy the promotional plans advertised for new customers?
A: Typically, existing customers can't access promotions for new clients. However, it's worth discussing with customer service; expressing loyalty and interest in new promotions might prompt similar offers. If not, switching providers could be an option.

Q: What do "primary" and "secondary" lines mean?
A: These refer to the main and secondary users within the same household or address under one carrier. They share one account and one order. If secondary lines are needed at the same address but not within one family, this should be arranged in advance.

Q: What is number porting?
A: In Canada, once you have a mobile number, it's your right to keep it even when switching carriers. If you find a better plan with another provider, you can transfer your current number to the new carrier.

Q: What requirements must be met for number porting?
A: Your account must be in good standing—no overdue payments, not under a temporary or prepaid period, and ideally not under contract (especially device contracts).

Q: Can you keep your current SIM card when switching carriers?
A: No, as each carrier uses their proprietary SIM cards, so you will need a new SIM from your new provider.

Q: What should you consider when switching carriers?
A: Ensure you have your current account number ready, as your new carrier will need it to request a transfer from your old carrier. After submitting a port request, it typically takes about an hour for the new carrier to initiate the switch. Keep using your old SIM until you confirm the porting request, which should be done within 90 minutes of receiving the confirmation SMS from your old carrier. After confirmation, the old SIM will stop working, and you can start using your new carrier's services with a new SIM.