What to consider when changing mobile phone provider

Given the recent news that the UK’s major mobile network providers are about to impose a price hike of anywhere between 14 and 17 percent, many people and businesses may well be starting to think about moving their phone contract elsewhere. But while the mobile phone market isn’t as complex or volatile as the energy market, there is still a lot to consider and even more to understand before you make the move. 

Here we look at the key issues that you need to think about

Is another provider going to be any cheaper?

The reality is that most of the big hitters in the sector are raising their prices by a similar amount. BT, TalkTalk, Vodafone, and EE are all hiking prices by 13.9 percent. Virgin Mobile and O2 are significantly higher at around 17+%.

You may well get introductory cost savings or other benefits by moving providers, but you need to be sure you’re not going to end up paying more over the longer term. 

Think about what’s included in your bundle, the length of your contract compared to the outstanding period left on your existing one and any exit penalties you may have to pay if you leave your current provider.  

Will your new provider give you the coverage you need?

Poor mobile signal is one of the most annoying things imaginable – especially if you’ve just locked yourself into a 2-year contract and you have to go to the top of the nearest hill to get a bar.

No one wants to be searching for a network connection when they’re trying to send an essential work email or just create a quick Facebook post.

The ability to research the anticipated coverage for mobile voice and data for each of the UK mobile network operators was recently made available with the development of a truly useful new Ofcom tool. 

Users can access information on coverage for each mobile network down to 100 square metres by zooming in on a specific spot on a UK map or by simply typing in a geographical name or postcode. 

Green indicates the highest likelihood of coverage, while red indicates the lowest – and of course, it makes sense to also check the coverage at your place of work as well as where you live. 

Does the contract work for you?

It's crucial to evaluate the kind of contract that will work best for you when you're first considering a network jump.

The most obvious options are a monthly bill or a pay as you go plan, however, SIM only plans are also available, and these are perfect if you're waiting for a specific device to launch or don't want to immediately commit to a lengthier contract.

Consider your phone usage frequency and preferred method of money management. A typical monthly contract will be significantly less expensive for most people, but if you don't use your device frequently, a sim only arrangement may well be better for you.

What usage do you need?

Consider how many minutes and texts you use each month when deciding whether to switch providers – many people are surprised at how much they use compared to what they believe they use.

You’ll also need to think about data – are you one of those people or businesses that needs a phone almost permanently connected to the internet? 

You probably don't use a lot of data if you only occasionally like to check your emails or keep up with the football results on a Saturday afternoon. On the other hand, if you frequently stream videos or are on the go for business zoom calls or internal calls, you'll need to watch out so that you don't run out of time.

Check the last six months of bills to see what your average data consumption is and make sure any new contract meets this.

What about the terms and conditions?

Make sure you have the right to cancel your current contract first if you have a good idea of the network you'd like to transfer to.

Sometimes a bargain that initially seems affordable ends up costing you a fortune in cancellation costs. Waiting until your contract expires is frequently worthwhile if your fees are extremely high.

It can be worth contacting your current provider and asking what they can offer you to encourage you to stay. 

Remember that it costs a network provider a lot more to attract a new customer than it does to retain one – so your provider may well be prepared to come to an arrangement over costs to ensure you stay with them (but bear in mind, they’ll almost certainly also expect you to extend your contract in return).

Don’t be rushed

Network providers are very good at making you believe you’ve got the best deal on earth but that you need to sign up right this instant to get it. Don’t be fooled. There are always continuous deals to be had. 

Find the solution that’s best for you and your business needs and finances. Your Comms Group has the perfect tool to offer you the best deals on the market 4 weeks before your renewal date. It is important to remember that most providers require 4 weeks notice period this would mean on a 24 month plan you would give your notice in the 23rd month, but don't worry our free tool will remind you of this!

Enter your renewal date on our tool and let us take away the time and stress of having to shop around.