Expert: DebiN - 1/31/2010

Question
DebiN
I am going to get a new cell phone in Florida. I would like a specific phone number. How can I find out if the number is available / which area code and cell carrier cover it ?

Answer
It is very different to get a specific cell phone number. And with all the porting these days, it is even harder because even though the number may have originally belonged to Verizon, for example, if the user ported to Sprint, it may still be with Sprint and then if the user discontinued service with the number, it goes back to Verizon (the original owner). It's very difficult unless you work for the carriers, to know which carrier owns the number and even more difficult to figure out if the number is available. I'm assuming you have called the number and it tells you that it is not in service? Even if it isn't in service, it doesn't mean it's available. If you know someone with the same area code and exchange (the first 6 digits), then whoever is their carrier, is likely the carrier. If the area code is not a Florida area code, you won't be able to get it in Florida and if the exchange is not local to the area you are moving, you also won't be able to get it. I know you really want this specific number, but unless it is in service and you could convince the person who has it today to turn it over to you, it is very difficult, if not impossible to get the number. There is a database where the number can be traced to see what carrier it belongs to, but unless you have access to this database or know someone who does, you won't be able to get to it. Try going into a cell store in Florida and see if a salesperson at the store can use their access to the database to look it up for you. It still doesn't mean you can get it or that it's available, but that would be your best bet. Thanks. DebiN