How to Get a Business PAC Code: The Complete UK SME Guide

Switching mobile networks is a task many business owners put off. You might be overpaying on an old contract, struggling with poor signal, or simply need better service. Whatever the reason, switching has become much easier.

The key to moving your number is the PAC (Porting Authorisation Code). This guide explains how to get your code, what it will cost to leave, and how to ensure you save money on your next deal.

What is a PAC Code?

A PAC is a nine-character code (like ABC 123 456) that lets you move your existing mobile number to a new provider.

• Validity: A PAC is valid for 30 days. If you do not use it within that time, it expires and your current contract continues.
• Cost: It is free to request a PAC.
• Process: Your old contract only cancels once the new network successfully moves your number.

The Easy Way: Text to Switch (65075)

Since 2019, Ofcom has required all UK networks to provide a “Text to Switch” service. This is the fastest way to get your code without speaking to a sales person.

How to do it:

• Text ‘PAC’ to 65075 from the phone you want to move.
• You should receive a reply within 60 seconds.
• The message will include your PAC code and any Early Termination Charges (ETCs) you still owe.
• The code typically last for 30 days
• Your switch only happens when you give the 9 digit code to your new provider.

Important for SMEs: If you have multiple lines on one account, this text service might not work. In that case, you will need to use your network’s online business portal or call them directly.

Use The Business Hub to Switch and Save

Finding the best deal while calculating exit fees can be time-consuming. This is where The Business Hub helps.

The Business Hub is designed to help UK businesses switch providers and reduce their overheads. Rather than you doing the legwork, they compare all the major business providers to find the most cost-effective solution for your specific needs.

How The Business Hub helps you save:

• Cost-Benefit Analysis: They work out if the savings on a new contract outweigh the cost of paying an early exit fee to your current provider.
• Full Market Comparison: They look at deals from EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three simultaneously.
• Managed Switching: They can handle the administrative side of the move, ensuring you don’t face downtime or “double billing” issues.

By using a specialist service like The Business Hub, you ensure your business is on the best possible tariff without having to negotiate with multiple network sales teams yourself.

Understanding Early Termination Charges (ETCs)

If you are still in your initial contract term, your network will charge a fee to let you leave early.

How the fee is calculated:

The Big Four networks generally use a standard formula:

(Monthly Fee x Months Remaining) - VAT - [Small Early Payment Discount] + VAT

For example, if you have 5 months left on a £30 (ex. VAT) plan, you would owe roughly £150+VAT. Most networks apply a small discount (usually around 2-4%) because you are paying the lump sum upfront.

The No Double Charging Rule

The No DoublUnder Ofcom rules, your old provider must stop charging you as soon as your number moves to the new network. They are not allowed to charge you for a 30-day notice period if you use a PAC to switch.e Charging Rule

PAC vs. STAC: Which one do you need?

Make sure you request the right code to avoid losing your number.

• PAC Code: Use this if you want to keep your mobile number.
• STAC Code: Use this if you want a new number and want the old line to be closed. (Text STAC to 75075).

How to get a PAC from the Big Four Networks

Avoiding Sales Tactics

When you call a network for a PAC, you will be put through to a retention team whose job it is to keep you onboard.

How you deal with this is up to you but you can just do it online instead via SMS and provide your new network with your PAC code

Final Checklist Before You Switch

• Check Unlocking: Most business phones sold after 2021 are unlocked, but check that your handsets will accept a SIM from a different network.
• Often the latest phones can use an E-SIM, which makes it even easier. It’s juts a digital code that unlocks Network access.
• Download Invoices: Download your past 12 months of VAT invoices from your old portal. You often lose access to these the moment your account is closed.
• Bulk Porting: If you are moving more than 5 lines, ask your new provider or The Business Hub about a “Letter of Authority” (LOA). This allows them to move all your numbers at once on a scheduled date.
• Back up Data: Moving networks won’t delete your photos or apps, but it will delete your old voicemail messages. Listen to and save any important voicemails before the switch date.

FAQs

Can I get a PAC code if I have an outstanding balance on my account?
Yes. Your network cannot legally refuse to provide a PAC code just because you owe them money. However, switching will not wipe the debt. They will send you a final bill for the outstanding balance, plus any early exit fees, which must be paid to avoid a mark on your business credit score.

I have more than 25 lines. Can I still use the text service?
No. Ofcom’s “Auto-Switch” text service is designed for accounts with up to 24 lines. For 25 lines or more, the process is considered a “bulk port.” In this case, you should contact The Business Hub. They can manage the bulk move via a Letter of Authority (LOA), which avoids you having to manually handle dozens of individual codes.

Can I port a business number to a personal mobile account?
Yes, but it is rarely a direct “Text to Switch” process. Most networks treat this as an internal migration. You usually have to move the business number to a Pay As You Go (PAYG) SIM first, then port it from that SIM into your new personal contract. The Business Hub can advise on the cleanest way to do this without losing your number.

What happens if the network switch is delayed?
Under Ofcom rules, if your number port takes longer than one working day, or if the switch is delayed by the provider, you are entitled to “reasonable compensation.” Your provider must inform you how this will be paid. If you encounter a delay, keep a log of the downtime to support your claim.

Can I get a PAC code for a number that has already been disconnected?
You can, but you must act quickly. You have a legal right to port your number for up to 31 days after a contract has ended or been disconnected. After 31 days, the number is usually returned to a central pool and can be very difficult – and sometimes impossible – to recover.

Do businesses get a 14-day “cooling-off” period?
Unlike consumer contracts, most business mobile contracts do not come with an automatic 14-day cooling-off period. This is because B2B law assumes a higher level of “commercial awareness.” This is why it is vital to check coverage and costs before you sign. The Business Hub can help you vet providers beforehand to ensure you don’t end up with a contract that doesn’t fit.

Can I port my business mobile number to a VoIP system?
Yes. If you are moving away from mobile handsets and want to use your number on a cloud-based phone system (VoIP), you can still use a PAC code. This is a great way to keep a well known number while moving to a more flexible office-based setup.

Will switching networks affect my business apps or data?
No. Switching networks only changes the “pipe” your data travels through. Your apps, emails, and files stored on the phone will stay exactly where they are. The only thing you will lose is your old network’s voicemail messages and any data stored on the physical SIM card (which is rare with modern smartphones).

Is there VAT on my final “Early Termination” bill?
Yes. Early termination fees are seen by HMRC as a service payment for the remainder of the contract, so they are subject to VAT at the standard rate. This means you can usually reclaim the VAT as a business expense, just like a regular monthly bill.

Need help navigating these rules?

Switching multiple lines or dealing with complex exit fees can be a headache. The Business Hub specialises in making this transition seamless for UK SMEs. They can work out the exact math to ensure you save money overall and handle the technical side of the port for you.

Related guide: For the full end-to-end process of moving networks (not just getting the code), see how to switch your business mobile network.