Switch from Three to EE
Keep your phone number when you switch from Three to EE. Here's how in 3 simple steps.
Switching from Three to EE is one of the most popular network switches in the UK, often driven by EE's reputation for the widest 4G and 5G coverage. EE consistently ranks as the UK's fastest and most reliable network in independent tests, making it a strong upgrade for Three customers experiencing coverage gaps. The process is straightforward and regulated by Ofcom.
Important Warning
Do NOT cancel your contract manually. If you cancel before transferring your number, you will lose it permanently. Your old contract will automatically cancel once the transfer completes.
Pre-Switch Checklist
- Back up your data: Contacts, voicemails, and saved messages won't transfer.
- Unlock your phone: Ensure it's not locked to your old network if you plan to keep using it.
- Check Early Termination Fees: Text INFO to 85075 to see if you'll incur charges for leaving early.
How to Switch from Three to EE
Get your PAC code from Three
Text PAC to 65075 from your Three phone and your PAC code will arrive via SMS within 60 seconds. You can also call Three on 333 from your Three handset, or ring 0333 338 1001 from any other phone to request the code. Three also allows you to request a PAC code by logging into your account at three.co.uk. The code is valid for 30 days.
Give your PAC to EE
Go to ee.co.uk and choose a pay monthly or SIM-only plan that suits you. During the checkout process, select the option to keep your current phone number and enter the PAC code from Three. You can also visit an EE store in person or call EE on 0800 079 8586 to set up your plan and provide the PAC code.
Wait 1 working day
After EE processes your PAC code, your number will move from Three to EE within 1 working day. EE will confirm the transfer date by text. On that day, your Three SIM will stop working and your EE SIM will activate with your existing phone number. You may experience a short service interruption of around 1-2 hours during the switchover.
Transfer Cut-off Times: Submitting your PAC code before 5:30 PM usually means your number will transfer the next working day. Submitting it after 5:30 PM or on weekends/bank holidays will add an extra working day to the process.
Final Bill: You'll receive a final bill from Three shortly after the transfer is complete. This covers your usage up to the date of the switch.
Things to Check Before Switching
Text INFO to 85075 from your Three phone to check your contract end date and find out about any early termination charges. If you are on a Three device plan, any remaining handset payments will still need to be paid. Make sure your phone is unlocked for use on other networks, and download any content or data stored in Three's cloud services before the switch.
Different Network Coverage
EE and Three operate entirely separate network infrastructures. EE is widely regarded as having the UK's broadest 4G and 5G coverage, particularly in rural areas. If you have been experiencing coverage issues on Three, switching to EE may well improve your experience. Check EE coverage at coverage.three.co.uk and ee.co.uk/why-ee/network for comparison.
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