I read that article regarding number portability... I did it as well, what a bollz-up...

I went from Cell-C to Vodacom. The only reason was because Vodacom gave better cell phones on their upgrades, and access to higher internet speeds. And also it was at the end of my 24 month contract.

So I did it, I was off for just over 1 day, and everything felt quite painless. Vodacom specifically said I must not contact the previous service provider - for no reason whatsoever.

My stupidity - I never checked my accounts - and my debit order for Cell-C continued to be deducted for 3 months. This was a specific question when I signed at Vodacom - Vodacom said no action need from my side - they cancel on my behalf.

So abou R700 later I went to Cell-C and queried this - and as I expected - only the account holder may cancel such a contract / debit order.

So my advice - do not follow anything which your new service provider tells you. Go to you current SP, ask them what needs to be done, what is the process. You may even stay with them, they may even give you a better deal. After all, Cell-C was nice enough to pay my money back, even though the fault wasn't theirs.

Sales people are after the commission, they will do and say anything for the sale. Be careful. The guy loosing the client will tell you the truth - he has nothing to gain - and at that stage he will rather set things right then lie to you. If you stay it is a bonus - but no commission pay out - ie no sale.