When the FCC mandate for Local Number Portability went into effect nationwide three years ago, millions of consumers changed wireless carriers taking their phone number with them. Apparently, more customers have ported their numbers to Verizon Wireless, from every single national wireless company.

Verizon Wireless is dedicated to delivering outstanding customer satisfaction by providing a positive wireless experience to 57 million customers. The company has invested $35 billion in the last seven years - $5 billion on average every year since the company was formed - to increase the coverage and capacity of its national network and to add new services.

Verizon Wireless reminds all wireless customers that they continue to have the ability to switch service providers while keeping their phone numbers; the company offers the following tips to help ensure a seamless, hassle-free switch:

1.  Don't cancel your current wireless service before switching. Your phone number must be active to switch.

2.  Check to see that your phone number is portable - online or by visiting any store. Numbers can only be transferred within specific local geographical boundaries and not all carriers have completed the required work to enable their numbers to port successfully.

3.  Write down all phone numbers and contact information stored in your phone before beginning the porting process...just in case the data is not transferred.

4.  Have your existing wireless contract/billing information with you. When beginning the transition process, whether in a retail store, over the phone or on the Internet, have a copy of your current contract and your most recent bill to ensure important information is readily available.

5.  Review your current wireless contract before starting the switch process to learn about any applicable early termination fees and other contractual requirements.

6.  Prepare for the unexpected. Establish an alternate contact number - at home, work or with a friend or family member - as a way to be contacted or to contact Verizon Wireless' port center in case the port takes longer than average. The vast majority of ports are instantaneous but some may take up to 24 hours.

7.  Don't ask a friend or family member to switch your account for you. In order to protect customer privacy, only the authorized account holder can switch a number.