The process of moving comes with a lot of changes and complications. Along with all of it comes the constant stress of getting new internet service. You are stuck in the process of packing and unpacking. Meanwhile, the need to get internet service keeps coming to the surface. This is why we have put together all the steps you should take in order to get the best coverage ahead of time so you won’t have to spend time watching paint dry.
Check the availability of internet service providers
You might want to check all your options when it comes to internet service providers (ISPs) before choosing one. If you are moving within the same city then chances are that your previous ISP may also move along with you, given that you have had a great experience with them. If not then you can visit certain websites that are designed to give an overview of all available ISPs in a particular locality.
Suppose you want to check the availability of Spectrum, one of the largest internet companies in the U.S. To look them up, you can type their name in the dialogue box given. You can search for Spectrum near me in your browser. Another thing you can do is to go to localcabledeals.com, enter your zip code, and find the available internet plans in your area.
Do you know what else helps a lot? Asking around in your neighborhood. If you are moving to a completely new place, a new city then you will likely have to switch to another ISP and this could be quite stressful.
Checking the availability is one thing but making sure that the one you choose to go with is going to provide their services just the way you want, can sometimes turn out to be a difficult task. Therefore, asking around in the neighborhood and getting their opinion can minimize the whole hassle. Their reviews can help you weigh your options and narrow them down to the ones that seem credible.
Pick Your Provider Wisely
If you have had a bad experience with your previous internet provider, then you have an idea of what are the things you should be looking for while picking an internet service. Changing homes or cities may also come with a demand for more bandwidth and less cost. The last thing you are looking for is an expensive deal during this complicated time of moving houses.
Considering that your experience with your previous ISP has been not up to the mark, a move is a perfect opportunity for you to switch the provider so you can have the best service that will be able to meet all your needs.
For this, we have designed a list of a few factors that you should definitely consider while picking your next provider.
Speed
The speed you get offered can either break the deal or make you sign up for it immediately. The download speed you get should be considered one of the most important aspects while picking a provider.
Your download speed can start from 25 Mbps or more for the streaming of videos and games. It should be efficient enough for you to do all your online activities seamlessly. In addition to this, the upload speed should be at least 5 Mbps. It can, however, range from 1 to 25 Mbps. But the mentioned one should be enough for you to carry out all your basic tasks.
Download speed is important for storing files, loading websites and video-based content, streaming music and games. On the other hand, upload speed determines how fast your internet connection is capable enough to transfer data to a server. It is used for sending emails, files and making video/audio calls.
Moreover, you should also keep under the consideration the fact that how many devices are going to share the same bandwidth. If you are moving with your family, then you need a connection that allows multiple devices to function efficiently at the same time. For this, we recommend getting fiber internet as it is a faster and more reliable option.
You can get an idea of which type of connection you require by monitoring your data usage. This can help in getting the internet plan that fits your needs perfectly.
Data Caps
If you are not familiar with this term, then let us walk you through it. Data caps are the limit that your ISP place on how much data you can use. If this is not something you enjoy, then lucky for you, several ISPs do not put data caps. This way you can look for their availability in your area.
However, if you don’t have the option to get such a service, then you might want to make that the plan you are subscribing to offer a high cap. In this way, your internet won’t slow down constantly or stop working abruptly, once it reaches the limit.
Moreover, you should also discuss with your service provider about getting a plan without any data caps. You should never forget to read the contract carefully before signing it. This could save you a lot of hassle in the long run. As data cap leads to internet throttling, which is something providers restrict your internet activity once you start to reach the limit.
Terms and Conditions
Okay, we know what a drag reading whole terms and contract can be. But at the same time, reading one can turn out to be quite a money-saver. Many contracts designed by one of the top ISPs in the US contain all the necessary information such as cancellation fees, duration of the contract, or any other extra incentive that you can get.
Therefore, always make sure to read and understand the terms written in the contract because they can save you from a lot of nuisance in the future.
Bundle Your Services
Moving to a new place could also mean getting a new cable TV provider along with home phone service. Getting three services could turn out to be a lot of work on your part. And then keeping up with three different providers and their billing process is enough to exhaust you.
In addition to this, getting separate services may also put a dent in your wallet. Moving to a new place comes with many expenditures and saving money becomes the top of your priority. For this, you should look into the bundling options provided by your internet service provider.
In this way, you can save more by availing yourself of all the services from the same provider. Also, it can save you from keeping a track of all three providers and keeping up with their services.
Most of the time, getting a bundled service also comes with discount offers. Again, it is an incredible way to save money and time, especially amidst the complicated time of moving houses.
Pack Your Previous Internet Hardware
Once the process of moving starts, you should pack up your modem and router because if you are thinking of getting services from a new provider, then the one used before won’t work with the new service.
After packing, drop the hardware off or send them by mail. On the other hand, if you are thinking of sticking with the same ISP, then pack the modem and router carefully and move it to the new place. However, do let your ISP know your new address for all the billing and information purposes.
Key Takeaway
Getting a new place comes with the stress of switching to a new ISP, however, with proper planning and considering the aforementioned factors of needs, budget, and whatnot you can find one of the best internet services for your new place.