1. Determine Who Offers Service in Your Area:
Start at the Mountain Wireless Cellular reports for your state. Make sure you don't overlook any local carriers. If you visit an online cellular retailer, most of them will ask you to enter a Zip Code to let you know if you have coverage in your neighborhood. Choose at least 3 carriers, and that can include your current one. Don't forget to look at Prepaid Carriers, most of which offer nationwide service.

2. Make Sure the Coverage Is Adequate Where You Need It:
That means at home, where you work and where you travel. Most carriers offer detailed maps at their web site. Check with neighbors and co-workers to at least eliminate carriers that don't work in those locations. If that narrows your list to less than 3, you might want to look at additional carriers. Look for guidance with Recommendations, Ratings and Pros & Cons.

3. Find the Best Deals:
Compare your list to the Reviews for cellular carriers for your state. Follow the links to your chosen carriers and their online deals. Determine which plans fit your current usage and the phone from each company that suits your needs. Make a note of plans and features you'd like. Feel free to call carriers with questions about their offers. Then, consider your phone options. Shop individual carriers, the manufacturers and cellular bargan sites. Now, you're ready to switch, but if you don't hate your current provider, don't assume switching is the best option. Don't forget to get an update from our Employee Discount Page to see if your employer has a deal with any cellular company.

4. Before Switching, Call Your Current Carrier:
Ask what they can do for you...you might be surprised. Tell them what you'd like in a phone and plan, and ask for their best deal before you continue with them. If they can't satisfy you, or if you still want to shop around, it's time to check your list. If you like your carrier's coverage but can't stand dealing with them, consider switching to a different company that uses the same network. Also consider a switch to Prepaid, possibly staying with the same carrier. Previously you needed to actually begin the cancellation process to get a carrier's last, best 'retention' offer. Now, they realize the cancellation process will be initiated by your newly chosen carrier during the number porting process. Therefore, you can tell your old carrier you will be leaving and that you will begin the porting process with another carrier. This may produce the desired 'retention' offer. Sometimes you need to be transferred to the "cancellation department" where they may make such offers.