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How-To

How to Set Up Internet When You Move

by bertram on
Moving Your Internet

Canceling or transferring service to getting set up in your new place might be easier than you think.

One crucial part of any successful move is setting up internet service at your new location, including canceling or transferring service at your current address. All you need to do is let your internet service provider (ISP) know that you plan to move. The best ISPs will walk you through the process by letting you know if they offer service in your new area, and if you can use the same equipment. Once you sort out the details, all that’s left is to set up an installation appointment at your new home.

Most internet providers make it easy to transfer service when you move, but if your current provider does not serve your new address, you’ll have to take a few extra steps to switch internet providers. Even if your current provider is available at your new address, it may be worth checking whether any new ISPs are available in the area.

Here is a checklist of how to proceed:

  1. Contact your ISP to let them know you’re moving
  2. Ask if your ISP is available in your new location
  3. See if you can take your modem and router with you
  4. Look into other ISPs if you need to
  5. Set up an installation appointment

If all these steps seem intimidating, check out the Xfinity Moving Page. They’ll walk you through everything you need, and have great online deals.

What steps do I need to take to move my services to my new address?

  • Schedule your move with the ISP
  • Depending on your current service, your move options may be one of the following:
    • Keep the same services and self-move your equipment.
    • Upgrade or add equipment and receive a Getting Started kit.
    • Schedule a professional installation.
  • Unplug and take your equipment with you or return it

See what ISPs are available at your new address

Before you can decide to transfer your internet service or sign up for a new one, you’ll need to know your options. Most ISP websites have web pages that enable you to check for if their service is available at your new location. Just enter your address to view available providers and plans.

What about apartments?

When moving into a new apartment, check with the leasing office to see if the complex has a primary internet provider. Your apartment may be wired for a specific internet service type, such as cable, fiber or even fixed wireless. In such cases, your best option will likely be to go with whatever provider serves the complex, but you may be able to seek out other options.

Switch or transfer internet service

If you’ve decided on what internet provider you want, whether that’s your current provider or a new one, and the plan that best fits your needs, it’s time to connect with the provider(s). 

Obviously, you’ll only have to contact one provider and give them your move-out and move-in dates if you’re transferring service. Providers, such as Verizon Fios and Xfinity, let you schedule your service transfer online, whereas others, like Spectrum, require you to call customer service.

Your provider may charge a transfer fee. Service transfer fees are usually only about $20, however if you call customer service they will likely wave the fee for you.

Switching to a new internet service provider

In the case of switching providers, I’d recommend contacting your current provider first. That way, you can schedule the disconnect date and get the details on any remaining payments and what you need to do with your equipment, all of which are good things to know before moving day. 

If your current provider is available at your new address, and you let them know you’re thinking of switching to a new ISP, that will give you leverage to negotiate. They will likely offer you a special deal for staying with them, but if they don’t you should ask. They may have surprisingly great offers for you.

When switching to a new provider, either because your current provider isn’t available or your new address presents options for a faster ISP with cheaper plans, try to set up your new service well before your move. That way, you’ll have the best chance of scheduling your installation as close to your move-in date and time as possible.

If self-installation is available, and you’re comfortable with it, that may be the best way to ensure service is set up when you want it. Just keep in mind that self-installation may require picking up the gear or waiting for it to arrive in the mail.

Know what to do with the equipment

Your provider will handle things on the service side of your internet connection, but you’ll be responsible for the equipment.

When transferring service, or if you use your own network devices, you’ll be expected to pack it up and take it with you.

Switching providers will involve returning your old equipment and getting your new devices. Many providers have brick-and-mortar locations where you can return your gear, but if yours does not, or if the trip and waiting in line is out of your way, mailing it back may be an option as well. Sometimes they will schedule a pick up, but not often.

If you opt for professional installation, you can count on the tech to bring the necessary accessories and cords — one less thing to worry about when moving.

Setting up your network

With a professional installation, your tech will know the best place to install your device(s) and should test your Wi-Fi connection before leaving. However, there are times when you may want to move your equipment or get a Wi-Fi repeater to get the best Wi-Fi connection throughout your home.

During self-installation or when moving your equipment after a professional installation, try to place your router in a central location in your home, as high as possible and away from large obstructions like walls or other electronics. An extra-long ethernet cable can be handy to have on hand, making it easier to move the router to a good location that isn’t necessarily right next to the modem.

After installation, be sure to test your internet connection. If you aren’t getting the speeds you expect, try resetting or repositioning your router. Once the Wi-Fi connection is good from all areas of your new digs it’s time to setup that streaming TV! That’s yet another article.

In case you need it – here are the phone numbers of all carriers so you can notify them of your move:

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