After you buy, Create Numbers delivers your custom mobile primarily as a PAC by email, usually within 2–4 weeks — most numbers within 2 weeks. You can also opt for a PAYG SIM posted free to your shipping address, then use the PAC to port the number onto that SIM. Any issues are communicated by email within 3 working days.
What “delivery” means for a custom number
Delivery means receiving the PAC (and optionally a PAYG SIM) so you can complete transfer of ownership — not instant airtime at checkout. The PAC arrives by email; an optional free PAYG SIM can be shipped if you want a physical card to port onto. Custom numbers can then be ported to any UK network, and work with physical SIM, eSIM, or as a virtual number on any tariff.
| Path | What you receive | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| PAC by email (standard) | Porting code / PAC instructions | Port onto your chosen network or SIM |
| Optional PAYG SIM | Physical SIM posted to your address | Port the PAC onto the SIM Create Numbers sent |
Do not share or market the number until delivery and transfer of ownership have completed successfully.
Pricing bands sit in Pricing overview. Final step: Get connected.
How long delivery takes
Plan on 2–4 weeks from purchase, knowing most orders complete within 2 weeks. If something goes wrong, Create Numbers aims to email you within 3 working days. Buffers still matter when a SIM is posted: Royal Mail delivered 76.5% of First Class items next working day in 2024/25 against a 93% Ofcom target (Ofcom investigation into Royal Mail 2024/25).
| Stage | Typical timing |
|---|---|
| Free request → options email | Within 5 days |
| Purchase | When you click a hyperlinked option |
| PAC / fulfilment after purchase | 2–4 weeks (most within 2 weeks) |
| Issue updates (if any) | Email within 3 working days |
| Refund window if delivery exceeds 4 weeks | See buy / refunds |
Do not schedule a hard launch for the week you pay. Keep marketing and SIM swaps behind successful transfer of ownership.
PAC by email and optional PAYG SIM
Expect a PAC by email as the core delivery. Opt in for a free PAYG SIM to your shipping address if you want Create Numbers to send a card — then use the PAC to port the custom number onto that SIM. Ofcom’s Communications Market Report 2024 counted 116.1 million UK mobile subscriptions in 2023, with 80% post-pay — which is why many buyers port into an existing network deal instead of staying on PAYG (Ofcom CMR 2024).
| Question | PAC only | PAC + PAYG SIM |
|---|---|---|
| Already have a network/SIM you like? | Usually yes | Optional |
| Want a card posted by Create Numbers? | No | Yes — free shipping |
| Compatible with eSIM / virtual number? | Yes — any UK network / tariff | Port PAC onto the SIM, then manage as usual |
UK and international shipping
UK and international delivery are free. Any import duties or VAT are payable by the customer. Expedited international SIM shipping may be possible for an additional fee, depending on service and destination; otherwise standard international shipping stays free.
| Topic | Policy |
|---|---|
| UK shipping | Free |
| International shipping | Free (standard) |
| Import duties / VAT | Payable by customer |
| Expedited international SIM | May be available for an extra fee |
Cross-border posts vary more than domestic: Royal Mail’s 2024/25 quality pack showed outgoing EU D+2 performance at 72% against an 85% standard (Royal Mail / IDS 2024/25 Q4 report).
When the PAC (or SIM) arrives
Use the PAC to port onto your chosen UK network, eSIM, virtual number setup, or the optional PAYG SIM — then test before you publish the digits. UK mobiles still carry huge traffic: Ofcom’s Q4 2024 update recorded 38.62 billion mobile-originated call minutes in the quarter (Ofcom Q4 2024 update).
- Open the PAC email and keep it with your order confirmation.
- If you ordered a PAYG SIM, check the parcel against your order when it arrives.
- Port and go live following Get connected and your network’s PAC steps.
- Test inbound calls and SMS before printing or advertising the number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I expect next-day delivery after purchase?
No — plan on 2–4 weeks, with most numbers within 2 weeks. PAC delivery is by email; optional SIMs still need postal time. Build launch plans with that buffer.
Should I opt for a PAYG SIM if I already have a network contract?
Usually no — take the PAC by email and port onto your existing account. Choose the free PAYG SIM only if you want Create Numbers to post a card for you to port onto. Custom numbers work on any UK network and tariff either way.
Should I re-book photoshoots that show the new number before transfer completes?
Wait until delivery and transfer of ownership are successful and you have tested the line. Publishing early is explicitly discouraged. Soft-launch digital channels only after a live test.
Should I worry if week one is quiet?
Not necessarily — many orders finish inside two weeks, but the published window is 2–4 weeks. If there is an issue, expect an email within 3 working days. Contact Create Numbers if you pass four weeks with no PAC (a refund exception may apply).
Should UK businesses use a home or office address for the optional SIM?
Use an address where someone can receive the parcel during working hours. Mis-delivered SIMs delay porting more than almost any other step. PAC-only orders only need a reliable email inbox.
Should I travel abroad while waiting?
PAC by email still works wherever you can access inbox and complete porting. If you ordered a physical SIM, arrange a reliable recipient or ask about international shipping before purchase. Import duties/VAT remain your responsibility.
Should I market the number as soon as I pay?
No — wait until delivery and ownership transfer are complete. Early marketing is the most common expensive mistake. See also refunds guidance on Purchase.
Should I open a courier complaint before contacting Create Numbers?
For optional SIM parcels, start with Create Numbers so they can confirm shipment details. PAC delivery is by email, so courier complaints do not apply to the code itself. Keep your order email and purchase date ready.
Should bulk purchases expect the same 2–4 weeks each?
Expect at least the standard window per number unless your confirmation says otherwise. You can purchase as many numbers as you like; each still needs successful PAC/transfer before marketing. Ask for written timing if you are launching a campaign.
Should I get a refund if delivery takes longer than four weeks?
You may request a refund if delivery exceeds 4 weeks (or if you ask within 3 days of payment, or the number is unavailable). Contact Create Numbers with your order details. Outside those cases, bespoke numbers remain non-refundable.