How to Switch from giffgaff to Three

If you are considering switching from giffgaff to Three, it is important to understand how their data rollover policies differ and what you might lose or gain in the process. This guide covers the key steps, what to expect, and common pitfalls specific to this switch.

Before you switch

Check if you have any outstanding device payments with giffgaff, as early termination charges may apply to device plans. giffgaff does not have fixed-term contracts for SIM-only plans, so there are no exit fees for those. You will lose any unused data, as giffgaff does not refund or transfer leftover allowances. Your email address is not affected, as giffgaff does not provide email services. Bundled services or goodybag perks will end when you leave.

How to switch, step by step

Mobile: To keep your number, text PAC to 65075 from your giffgaff SIM. You will receive your PAC code within 60 seconds, valid for 30 days. Order a Three SIM card online or visit a Three store. Insert the SIM and follow activation instructions. Provide your PAC code to Three during activation or by calling Three customer service. Your number will transfer within one working day, with minimal downtime. If you do not want to keep your number, request a STAC code instead.
Broadband: If switching broadband and both providers use the Openreach network, the new provider (Three) will handle the switch automatically. If you are moving between different network types, a cease-and-reprovide process may be needed, which could require an engineer visit. Three will confirm if an engineer is needed.
Energy: To switch energy suppliers, simply sign up with your chosen new supplier. They will manage the switch, which usually takes about five working days under the Energy Switch Guarantee.

What to watch out for

Data rollover: Both giffgaff and Three do not offer data rollover. Any unused data on your giffgaff plan will be lost when you switch, and Three does not carry over unused data to the next month.
Device plans: If you have an outstanding device payment plan with giffgaff, you may face an early termination charge equal to 50 percent of the remaining balance.
Service downtime: On the day your number transfers, you may experience a brief loss of service. Plan your switch for a day when this will not cause inconvenience.

Comparison of data rollover and allowances

Comparison of Data Rollover Policies and Data Allowances between giffgaff and Three in the UK
Provider	Data Rollover	Data Allowances
giffgaff	No data rollover; unused data does not carry over to the next month. (theinformr.com)	Plans include: £10 for 60GB, £15 for 120GB, £20 for 200GB; all plans offer unlimited UK calls and texts, with up to 5GB of EU roaming at no extra cost. (ukfcf.org.uk)
Three	No data rollover; unused data does not carry over to the next month. (mobilecoverage.co.uk)	Plans include: £10 for 15GB, £13.50 for 100GB, £18 for 200GB, £31.50 for Unlimited; all plans offer unlimited UK calls and texts, with varying roaming allowances. (three.co.uk)

Sources: theinformr.com, ukfcf.org.uk, mobilecoverage.co.uk, three.co.uk

Switch with Lodo

Want to make switching from giffgaff to Three as easy as possible? Lodo is the simplest way to do it.

We will sign you up with Three, request your PAC code, port your number, and cancel your giffgaff plan. If anything goes wrong, we resolve it with the providers directly. Free, no catch. Switch with Lodo for free

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to leave giffgaff?

If you're on an 18-month contract with giffgaff, terminating early incurs a charge of 50 percent of your monthly plan cost multiplied by the number of months remaining in your contract. For example, if your plan is £10 per month and you have 10 months left, the fee would be £50. This charge is waived if you cancel within the first 14 days of your contract. (help.giffgaff.com)

How long does the switch take?

Transferring your number to Three using a PAC code typically takes one working day if the request is submitted before 5pm on a weekday. Requests made after this time will be processed on the next working day. (three.co.uk)

Will I lose my phone number?

No, you can keep your existing phone number when switching to Three by obtaining a PAC code from your current provider and providing it to Three during the switch process. (three.co.uk)

Can I switch if I am still in contract?

Yes, you can switch to Three even if you're still under contract with giffgaff. However, if you're on an 18-month contract, terminating early will incur a charge of 50 percent of your monthly plan cost multiplied by the number of months remaining in your contract. (help.giffgaff.com)

Do I need to contact giffgaff or does Three handle it?

You need to contact giffgaff to obtain a PAC code, which is required to transfer your number to Three. Once you have the PAC code, you can provide it to Three to initiate the switch. (three.co.uk)

What happens if something goes wrong during the switch?

If issues arise during the switch, contact Three's customer service for assistance. They can help resolve problems related to the transfer process. (three.co.uk)

Is there any downtime?

There may be a brief period of downtime during the switch, but it is typically minimal. To ensure a smooth transition, activate your new Three SIM before the scheduled transfer date. (three.co.uk)

Anything else specific to this provider pair?

Ensure you have a compatible device for Three's network and that your current phone is unlocked if it's locked to giffgaff. Also, check if your current plan includes any outstanding payments for devices or services that may affect the switch. (three.co.uk)