Delivery
PAC Code, Physical SIM or eSIM — Which Should I Choose?
Compare PAC Code, physical SIM and eSIM delivery before buying a special UK mobile number.
| Delivery option | Best for | What you receive |
|---|---|---|
| PAC Code | Customers who already have or plan to obtain a UK SIM/network | PAC code used to transfer the purchased number |
| Physical SIM | Customers who want the number supplied on a SIM card | Physical SIM delivered to the customer |
| eSIM | Customers who want digital activation | eSIM where supported |
Delivery questions
PAC means Porting Authorisation Code. With PAC delivery, we supply the code needed to transfer the purchased mobile number to a compatible UK SIM and network that you choose.
No. PAC Code delivery normally provides the PAC only; it does not automatically include a physical SIM card or eSIM. Choose a SIM delivery option if you need the service supplied by Numbers Market.
Choose PAC if you already have an active UK SIM or plan to obtain one and want to move the purchased number to that network. The receiving network handles the final inbound port.
We send a physical SIM card containing the service needed to use the purchased number. Delivery, activation and any later transfer follow the instructions supplied with your order.
An eSIM is a digital SIM profile delivered for compatible devices and networks. You install it using the supplied activation instructions; device, network and country support must be checked first.
PAC is usually the best fit if you want to bring the purchased number to your existing or chosen UK network. Check that your network accepts the transfer and that your SIM can be active for the port.
A physical SIM or supported eSIM is normally more suitable because it gives you a service on which to activate and use the number. Check eSIM and network compatibility before ordering.
Contact support as soon as possible with your order number. We will check whether the delivery method can still be changed; this depends on fulfilment status and applicable terms.
Sometimes, if fulfilment has not started. Contact support promptly with your order number and we will confirm what is possible for that order.
The product or order-specific estimate takes priority. As general guidance, connection or delivery may take around 10–15 working days where applicable; physical SIM and eSIM timing depends on the selected product.