1When switching makes sense
- Promotional pricing expiration is the most common trigger. When your promo rate ends and price jumps, switching often saves money.
- Poor service quality justifies switching regardless of pricing. Your time and frustration have value.
- Moving provides a natural switching opportunity. Your current provider may not serve the new location.
- The math matters: Calculate total cost over 24 months. Include any early termination fees. If switching saves money, it's worth considering.
2Checking your current contract status
- Find your service agreement or check your online account. Key info: commitment period, promotional expiration, and termination fee structure.
- If you're in a commitment period: Calculate remaining months and potential termination fees. Determine whether savings exceed this cost.
- If you're month-to-month: You can switch anytime without penalty.
- Review equipment obligations. Rented equipment must be returned within 30 days.
3Researching alternatives
- Check availability first. Enter your address in potential providers' online checkers. Not all services reach all locations.
- Compare total costs over 24 months. Include monthly service, equipment, installation, and post-promotional pricing.
- Research provider reputation. Reddit discussions and review sites reveal real customer experiences.
- Consider service model preferences. Providers like oxio are online-first; others offer phone support.
4Planning the transition timeline
- Allow 5-10 business days for most transitions. Fibre may take longer. Don't schedule during critical work periods.
- Coordinate installation and cancellation dates. New service should activate when old service ends.
- For most switches, the new provider handles coordination. They'll notify your old provider.
- Consider backup options. Have a mobile hotspot available during cutover if you work from home.
5Initiating the switch
- Sign up with your new provider first. Complete the application; they typically notify your old provider.
- Schedule installation if required. Self-install needs only equipment shipment. Professional install needs an appointment.
- Prepare for transition day. Ensure someone is home for technician visits. Have your modem location ready.
6Installation day and setup
- For self-installation: Unbox equipment when it arrives. Read the setup guide before starting. Placement matters for WiFi coverage.
- Follow activation steps exactly. Incomplete activation causes problems later.
- For professional installation: Be available during the scheduled window. Ensure access to cable entry points.
- Test thoroughly after installation. Check speeds and WiFi coverage. Report issues immediately.
7Returning old equipment
- Unreturned equipment can result in $100-300+ charges. Document equipment condition with photos before returning.
- Return methods vary by provider. Some provide prepaid labels; others require retail drop-off.
- Use tracked shipping and save the tracking number. Return promptly within 30 days.
- Obtain confirmation of receipt. Watch for equipment charges on your final bill.
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Before you switch checklist
- Check if your current contract has an end date or cancellation fee
- Note when your current billing cycle ends
- Confirm oxio availability at your address
- Review the total monthly cost including taxes and fees
- Understand equipment requirements (modem, router)
- Plan for potential service gap during transition
Frequently Asked Questions
Most switches complete in 5-10 business days. Fiber installations to new addresses may take longer. Self-install options can be faster once equipment arrives.