Get connected is the final step: Create Numbers has delivered a PAC by email (and, if you opted in, a free PAYG SIM). Use the PAC to port the custom number onto your chosen UK network or SIM — including physical SIM, eSIM, or a virtual number on any tariff — then test before you publish the digits.
What you need
You need the PAC from your delivery email plus enough detail to complete porting with your network or onto the PAYG SIM. Keep the order confirmation email handy. Do not market the number until transfer of ownership has completed successfully.
| Item | Why you need it |
|---|---|
| PAC / porting instructions (email) | Authorises the transfer onto your SIM or network |
| Order email | Proof of purchase and contact identity |
| Optional PAYG SIM (if ordered) | Physical card to port onto with the PAC |
| Network account or eSIM/virtual setup | Where the number will live day to day |
Port with the PAC (standard path)
Follow the PAC instructions to port onto any UK network provider you choose. Create Numbers custom numbers are compatible with physical SIMs, eSIMs and virtual-number setups on any tariff. Ofcom’s Communications Market Report 2024 counted 116.1 million UK mobile subscriptions in 2023 — plenty of network routes to land on (Ofcom CMR 2024).
- Open the PAC email and read the porting steps in full.
- Start the port with your chosen UK network (or virtual-number provider) using that PAC.
- Wait for the network to confirm the number is live on your service.
- Test inbound calls and SMS from another phone.
If you ordered a PAYG SIM
When the free PAYG SIM arrives, use the PAC to port the custom number onto that SIM, then activate or manage the SIM as instructed. If Create Numbers asks you to use the on-site form for that SIM path, go to Activate your SIM with any code and order email they specify.
- Check the SIM against your order when the parcel arrives.
- Port the custom number onto the SIM using the PAC.
- Complete any Create Numbers or network activation steps you were sent.
- Test the line before printing or advertising the number.
Codes and PACs are sensitive — treat them like account secrets. Prefer completing porting yourself rather than sharing codes widely.
After you are connected
Only share or market the number once delivery and transfer of ownership have completed and you have tested the service. UK mobiles still carry huge everyday traffic — Ofcom’s Q4 2024 update recorded 38.62 billion mobile-originated call minutes in the quarter (Ofcom Q4 2024 update) — so a failed early print run is expensive.
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Test calls and SMS first | Print business cards the day you pay |
| Update website/CRM after a live test | Publish the number during the 2–4 week wait |
| Keep PAC/order emails on file | Discard fulfilment email before the port completes |
Delivery timing and optional SIM shipping: Delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I wait for a SIM if I only need the PAC?
No — the standard delivery is a PAC by email. Order the optional PAYG SIM only if you want a card posted. You can port the PAC straight onto an existing network SIM or eSIM.
Should I port to a contract or stay on the PAYG SIM?
Port to whichever tariff fits your usage — custom numbers work on any UK network tariff. Many buyers move onto post-pay; Ofcom reported 80% of UK mobile subscriptions were post-pay in 2023 (CMR 2024). Choose based on cost and coverage, not the custom ending.
Should I use eSIM instead of a physical SIM?
Yes, if your network supports it — Create Numbers numbers are compatible with eSIM as well as physical SIMs and virtual-number setups. Follow your network’s eSIM + PAC process. Test thoroughly before you retire the old number.
Should I publish the number on my website as soon as the PAC arrives?
Not until the port has completed and you have tested inbound service. Create Numbers recommends waiting until transfer of ownership is successful. Early marketing is the main avoidable risk.
Should I contact Create Numbers or my network if the port stalls?
Start with the party named in your PAC instructions — often the gaining network — and keep Create Numbers copied if the PAC itself looks wrong. Issue updates from Create Numbers are emailed within 3 working days when something is wrong on their side. Keep purchase and PAC emails to hand.
Should someone else complete connection for me?
Only if you trust them with the PAC and order identity the same way you would with account passwords. Prefer doing it yourself. Revoke shared access once the number is live.
Should I recycle packaging photos that show codes online?
No — blot out PAC codes, SIM numbers and activation secrets before you post unbox photos. Those values control ownership of the line. Keep the originals offline until the port is done.
Should I expect same-day service after the PAC email?
Ports are not always instant — allow your network’s stated porting time after you submit the PAC. Create Numbers’ overall fulfilment window is still 2–4 weeks to get the PAC to you (most within 2 weeks). Build go-live dates behind both steps.
Should international customers connect differently?
The PAC path is the same; optional SIM shipping abroad is free at standard rates, with any duties/VAT payable by you. Expedited SIM shipping may cost extra. See delivery for shipping rules.
Should I open a refund request because porting is slow on my network?
Refund exceptions cover 3 days from payment, delivery exceeding 4 weeks, or an unavailable number — not every network-side port delay after a PAC was delivered on time. Read Purchase. Contact Create Numbers if the PAC never arrived inside four weeks.