Internet when moving: transfer, cancel or choose anew (2026)
Transfer the contract, special termination right, availability at the new address and the right timing — stay online with no long gap when you move.
Three routes — which fits you?
When moving you basically have three options: transfer the existing contract to the new address, end it via special termination, or cancel normally and compare anew. Which route is best depends on availability and your current price.
Transferring is convenient if your provider offers the same service at the same price at the new address. But check whether the term restarts — some providers extend the contract on a move.
If a switch is due anyway or your current price is high, the move is the ideal moment to compare and choose a better plan.
The special termination right when moving
If your provider cannot deliver the same service at the new address, you have a special termination right — even mid-term. This is your strongest lever if you want out of an expensive old contract.
If the provider does offer the service but only on worse terms, a special termination right often applies too. Read the fine print and ask actively.
Timing matters: the special termination right is tied to the move date. Arrange it in good time so you do not miss a deadline and do not pay twice.
Check availability at the new address first
Before cancelling or transferring anything, check availability for the exact new address with house number. Connection type and speed can differ a lot from your old flat — there may be fibre there, or only slow DSL.
Availability decides which plans are even possible. There is no point transferring a fast plan if only a lower speed arrives at the new connection.
If fibre is available at the new address, it is especially worth a look — a more stable connection and better upload, often at a similar price to fast DSL.
Keep to the right schedule
Plan the internet switch a few weeks ahead. Especially for a completely new connection, provisioning can take time — fibre sometimes even requires construction work.
When switching providers the transition is protected: between old and new provider your internet may not be down for more than one day. The new provider usually coordinates the switch.
Give the move date early so activation at the new address matches your move-in as closely as possible. That avoids days without a connection in your new home.
Router, tech and the final bill
Take your router with you if it fits the new connection — thanks to router freedom you are not tied to provider devices. With a change of connection type (e.g. DSL to fibre) you may need a different device.
Only remove the router once the new connection is up, so you are not needlessly offline. Document the old connection state if needed.
After the move, check the final bill of the old connection and the first bill at the new address: are the tariff, speed and any moving fees correct?
Practical tips
- Check availability for the exact new address first.
- Use the special termination right if the provider cannot deliver, or only worse, at the new place.
- Plan the switch several weeks ahead, especially for fibre.
- Give the move date early so activation matches your move-in.
- Only remove the old router once the new connection is running.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Transferring the contract without checking availability at the new address.
- Acting too late and ending up without internet for days.
- Missing the special termination right and staying in an expensive old contract.
- Overlooking that a move can restart the contract term.
- Removing the old router before the new connection is up.
Checklist before you compare
- Availability and connection type checked for the new address.
- Decided: transfer, special-terminate or compare anew.
- Move date communicated to the provider in good time.
- Checked whether the term restarts on moving.
- Router compatibility with the new connection clarified.
- Final and first bills checked after the move.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take my internet contract with me when moving?
Yes, if your provider offers the same service at the new address. But check whether the contract term restarts.
Do I have a special termination right when moving?
Yes, if the provider cannot deliver the service at the new address or only on worse terms.
How far ahead should I arrange it?
A few weeks. For new connections, especially fibre, provisioning can take longer.
How long is the internet down when switching?
When switching providers, at most one day — protected by law. For a brand-new connection it depends on provisioning.
Can I take my router with me?
Usually yes, thanks to router freedom. With a change of connection type you may need a suitable device.
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