Moving? Find out how to switch internet providers and save money

It’s easy to pick an internet service provider (ISP) and simply stick with them, but if you are moving across town, across state or across the country, chances are you may not have access to the same provider. In fact, moving may give you a good chance to score a better price for your internet service. You just need to know where to look and when. 

This guide will help you determine the best time of year to switch ISPs so you can save yourself some money while you move.

Moving season means promotional internet prices

Did you know that 80% of all moving in the United States happens between April and September, with June, July and August being the busiest months for moving? The summer is the time when most people head to a new home. 

The ISPs are familiar with this trend of the summer move. In order to entice movers to sign up for their service, they often offer their lowest prices of the year during the summer months.

If you are moving locally, you might be able to keep your current service and just need to let your provider know that you’d like to transfer the service to a new address. Check your address to see if your provider is available at your new home.

If you are moving to a rental property, particularly a condo or apartment building, remember to check if management requires you to use their chosen provider.

One of the first things you’ll want to do when you get to your new place is set up the internet.

Other internet plan perks

Some internet plans provide added value, like unlimited data or included equipment fees. To get the most value out of your monthly payment, look for deals like bonus gift cards, free equipment or free access to streaming services. 
Plans with data caps or termination fees can cost you a large amount of unexpected money, so review each plan carefully. Using the new broadband plan labels will help you with that.

You may also be able to save money by renting your own modem and router.

Internet prices go up in fall, winter months

While the summer may be the best time to switch your ISP, you can find savings just about any time of the year if you go looking for them. Switch internet provider deals exist and providers often offer promotional rates for new customers that will save them money for at least the first year of service. Keep an eye out for these deals and don’t be shy about switching — especially if you aren’t locked into a contract. The reality is that most consumers don’t switch providers until they have to, which means they are missing out on opportunities to save money.

That said, there are times that you will want to avoid switching your internet service. Prices tend to rise in September after the moving season comes to a close. You can also expect to see prices rise late in the year, around November and in January. Try to avoid switching internet service during those months unless you have to, as you likely will not be getting the best available price.

How to switch internet providers

Once you’ve spotted a deal that you want to take advantage of, you’ll need to actually go through the process of switching ISPs. This can be simple or tricky depending on your current provider. 

What to do when switching broadband

If your provider has not locked you into a long-term contract, you will simply need to inform the company that you are discontinuing your service. Either call or log in to your account on the company’s website and cancel your service. They will inform you when your last day of service will be, at which point you can set up your new internet. Make sure you return any equipment to your previous internet service provider if necessary.

If you are locked into a long-term agreement and want to switch ISPs mid-contract, you can do so, but you’ll likely have to pay a cancellation fee. Check how much this will cost you, as it may negate the savings you make by switching. Some providers offer to cover the fees when you switch, so you may be able to get these extra charges covered for you. 

Check out Allconnect’s guide on how to switch internet service providers.

Are you ready to find a better internet provider?

You are probably paying more than you should for your internet service. Shop around and find the best deals available to you by comparing internet service providers and plans in your area. Make sure that if you can, you switch during the summer to get the best deal available to you, and don’t be afraid to switch providers regularly when better deals become available, especially if you aren’t locked into a contract. Learn more about the best internet deals.

You can also read how one person survived their move and handled internet service changes.

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