It’s less complicated than you might think to move your internet to a new address. All you need to do is let your internet service provider (ISP) know that you plan to move. The best ISPs will tell you if the company offers service in your new area, and also indicate whether you can use your existing modem and router. Once you sort out the details, all that’s left is to set up an installation appointment at your new home.
5 Tips For How to Move with Your Existing Internet Service
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5 steps to moving with your existing internet
Whatever your reasons are for moving (e.g., wanting a better space to work from home, relocating for a change of pace, or moving to be closer to work or family), we know how stressful moving can be. So without delay, here’s four easy steps to help you move with your internet service provider (ISP).
Looking for a moving company?
If you’re ready to move, but you’re not sure which moving company to hire, we can help. We’ve researched prices, services, and customer reviews for all of the moving industry’s biggest companies to find out which ones are truly the best. Check out our list of the best moving companies to find your mover.
1. Contact your ISP and let them know you’re moving
The most important step here is to contact your ISP and let them know you’re going to move to a new place. Once you update your ISP, you’ll be able to let them know when you plan to move, and where you’re going.
Sometimes there’s a live chat on the website or an email you can use to contact your ISP. When possible, call and ask to speak with a representative. To help you out, here’s a list of common ISPs and their phone numbers:
- Xfinity: +1-800-XFINITY
- CenturyLink: +1-866-642-0444
- AT&T: +1-800-288-2020
- Verizon Fios Home Internet: +1-800-837-4966
- Cox: +1-800-234-3993
- Spectrum: +1-877-463-0677
- Viasat: +1-844-702-3199
- HughesNet: +1-866-347-3292
- Frontier: +1-800-921-8101
- Suddenlink: +1-877-794-2724
- Windstream: +1-800-347-1991
- RCN: +1-800-746-4726
- Optimum: +1-866-218-3259
- Grande Communications: +1-866-2GRANDE
- Mediacom: +1-855-633-4226
- Sparklight: +1-877-692-2253
- Earthlink: +1-888-327-8454
- WOW! Internet: +1-866-496-9669
Find internet prices for your new home
2. Ask if your ISP is available in your new location
Every internet service provider is different. If you’re really happy with your ISP and want to keep the same one, make sure you ask if that’s possible. A representative should be able to answer your questions right away or find someone who can. Most ISPs are available in a variety of locations. Chances are you’ll be able to keep the same good old reliable ISP, even at your new place.
Heads up
Some internet companies charge a relocation fee for you to transfer your existing internet to your new place. Learn more about how to discuss relocation with your ISP and how to avoid hidden fees
3. Take your router and modem with you
Moving already means you’ll have plenty of unexpected expenses. If you’re looking to save money, bring your modem and router with you when you move (if you own them). If you’re leasing your router and modem, then you’ll have to check with your ISP if you should continue renting them. Just unplug everything and pack it in a secure box so it doesn’t get damaged.
Once you're at your new home, you can set up your router just like it was before. Make sure everything is plugged in correctly, and try to keep your router in a centralized location. (Your devices can connect to the web easier when the signal is in the middle of the house.)
Speaking of your router, you should think about where you’re going to put it in your new home. Our guide to router placement can help you choose a room for your router where all of your devices will be able to connect for uninterrupted streaming, working, and browsing.
Need more help setting up your internet?
If it’s been a minute since you’ve last set up your internet, here’s a quick refresher on installing your equipment, setting up your network, and connecting all your devices.
4. Look into other ISPs if you need to
If you contacted your ISP, and they don’t provide service in the area you’re moving to, don’t panic. As much as you might think it’s a hassle, you can switch to a different internet provider and still have access to great internet speed and Wi-Fi.
Here’s a few of the top internet providers to look into (just in case you can’t keep your existing internet when you move).
Compare internet companies
Company | Internet type options | Price range | Download speeds | Learn more |
| 5G Cellular, fixed wireless | $50–$70/mo.* | 72–245 Mbps | Check availability | |
| Cable | $20.00–$120.00/mo.** | 75–2,000 Mbps | Check availability | |
| Fiber, fixed wireless | $55.00–$250.00/mo.*** | 225–5,000 Mbps | Check availability | |
| Cable, fiber | $24.99–$79.99/mo.† | 50–1,000 Mbps | Check availability | |
| Cable, fiber | $50.00–$150.00/mo.‡ | 100–2,000 Mbps | Check availability |
Data as of publish date.
*Lowest rates for T-Mobile customers. All quotes based on enrollment in autopay; $5 more per month without autopay.
**Excludes Xfinity Gigabit Pro and Gigabit X3. For the first 12 months with a 1-year agreement.
***Excludes AT&T Internet 2000 and AT&T Internet 5000 plans. For 12 mos., plus taxes & equip fee. $10/mo. equip. fee applies. Incl. 1TB data/mo.; overage charges apply. Ltd avail./areas.
†For the first 12 months.
‡For the first 12 months with a 1-year agreement.
Need help switching internet service providers? Here’s a guide to get your internet switched and ready to go after moving.
Recap
The best internet service providers usually have large enough networks that you can transfer service to your new home. However, you should contact your company’s customer service to make sure everything is kosher. They’ll let you know if there’s service available at your new location and whether you can use your current router and modem. We recommend setting an installation appointment approximately one month before arriving at your destination.
Catherine McNally contributed to this article.
Move internet to a new location FAQ
Finding internet providers available in your new area is as easy as one, two, three. Just use this zip finder, enter your zip code, and then pick the internet service provider you want.
You can get internet installed in as little as 48 hours—but it’s rare. Usually, it takes two-to-three weeks to set up your new internet connection. Since COVID has made wait times even longer, we recommend setting up your installation one month in advance.
You can move your router to another room with Xfinity if there’s a wired connection in the new location. You’ll also need to have your current provider install or activate an internet line.
You should get internet approximately one month before arriving at your new home. Calling your internet provider is a critical step to the move-in process.
Which internet providers are available in your new area?
Finding internet providers available in your new area is as easy as one, two, three. Just use this zip finder, enter your zip code, and then pick the internet service provider you want.
How fast can you get internet installed?
You can get internet installed in as little as 48 hours—but it’s rare. Usually, it takes two-to-three weeks to set up your new internet connection. Since COVID has made wait times even longer, we recommend setting up your installation one month in advance.
Can you move your router to another room with Xfinity?
You can move your router to another room with Xfinity if there’s a wired connection in the new location. You’ll also need to have your current provider install or activate an internet line.
When should you get internet when moving?
You should get internet approximately one month before arriving at your new home. Calling your internet provider is a critical step to the move-in process.
Can you set up internet before you move in?
You can set up internet before you move in as long as you have access to your new home. You’ll also need to ensure your provider can set up an activation appointment that meets your timeline.
Can AT&T transfer my home phone service?
AT&T can transfer your home phone and internet service to your new location. However, you’ll need to check your plan to see if a bundle plan prevents you from canceling your AT&T internet service but retaining your home phone.
How do I find a broadband provider as a new customer?
It’s easy to find a broadband provider as a new customer. We recommend checking out the best internet deals to see if there are any special offers applicable for your new home.
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