How the Switch Works
This page covers exactly what happens once you've chosen a plan and asked Lodo to switch you over. No sales pitch - just a clear, step-by-step breakdown of how we execute each switch on your behalf.
Moving to a new home? This also covers how Lodo helps get your broadband and energy set up from scratch.
Switching Mobile
Typically takes 3-4 minutes
- Once you've chosen your new provider, we'll collect a few basic details so they can set up your contract and send your SIM if needed.
- Usually this is just your name, email, address and payment details. Your address is only used if a physical SIM needs to be delivered.
- To switch providers while keeping your number, a PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) is used. This allows your new provider to transfer your number and automatically cancel your old contract.
- PAC codes are issued instantly by your current provider. Requesting one simply involves texting PAC to 65075 from the number being switched.
- Providers are legally required to reply within one minute with the PAC code, its 30-day expiry, and details of any early termination charges or outstanding balance on the account.
- Lodo guides the PAC step. On mobile, we open the PAC text and interpret your provider's reply - extracting the code and highlighting any rare exit fees. On desktop, we guide you through the same step in under a minute.
- Once you confirm the switch, the PAC does the rest. Your new provider ports your number and automatically cancels your old contract.
- If you're receiving a physical SIM, wait until it arrives before confirming the switch to avoid any service interruption.
- If you're using an eSIM, the switch can happen immediately, and your new plan will activate as soon as the number transfer completes.
Switching Broadband
Typically takes <6 minutes
- Once you've chosen your new broadband provider, we collect a few basic details so they can set up your new contract.
- Usually this is just your name, address, email and payment details. Your address is used to identify the broadband line at your property.
- Lodo coordinates the switch with your new provider, who then notifies your current provider that the service is being transferred.
- In most cases you don't need to cancel your old broadband manually. The switch process handles this automatically.
- There's usually no interruption to your connection. Your broadband line is transferred to the new provider, often within one working day.
- Most switches don't require an engineer visit. If one is needed, Lodo can help schedule a convenient appointment during the switching process.
- Your new provider will send a router if one is required. You'll receive simple instructions on when to connect it.
- Once the switch completes, your old provider will issue a final bill and close your account.
Switching Energy
Typically takes <5 minutes
- Once you've chosen your new energy tariff, we collect a few basic details so your new supplier can set up your account.
- Usually this is just your name, address, email and payment details. Your address is used to identify the energy meters at your property.
- Lodo identifies your electricity and gas meters using national energy databases, ensuring the correct supply points are switched.
- Lodo works directly with energy suppliers to coordinate the switch. Your new supplier is instructed to take over the supply, and your current supplier is automatically notified.
- There's nothing you need to cancel manually. Once the switch completes, your old energy account closes automatically.
- There is no interruption to your energy supply. The same pipes, wires and meters continue delivering your gas and electricity.
- Most switches complete within around 5 working days, though some suppliers may take slightly longer depending on the tariff.
- Around the switch date, you may be asked to submit a meter reading. This ensures both suppliers calculate your final and opening bills accurately.
- Your previous supplier will then issue a final bill and return any remaining credit on your account.
- Have questions? Lodo can answer questions about the switching process while you browse providers.
Questions about switching?
Lodo is trained on 60+ leading switching guides and detailed databases covering all major providers, so it can answer questions instantly while you browse.