How do I transfer cellular service from an old iPhone to a new iPhone when setup says contact the carrier?
Answer
On the new iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Set Up Cellular and try Transfer From Nearby iPhone if it appears. If you see unable to set up cellular and a prompt to contact your carrier, finish any carrier banner on screen, then complete eSIM activation with the carrier app or carrier support—Apple setup alone cannot override a carrier lock on eSIM transfer.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Do not share carrier PINs, one-time codes, or Apple Account passwords with unexpected callers offering to transfer your number.
- Erasing the old iPhone before the new eSIM is active can make recovery harder if the carrier still needs the old device.
Follow these steps
Open cellular setup on the new iPhone
On the new iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Set Up Cellular (wording may be Set Up Cellular Service).
You should see: You see carrier setup options, including transfer or carrier activation choices.
Try Transfer From Nearby iPhone if offered
If Transfer From Nearby iPhone appears, keep the old iPhone unlocked nearby and follow the on-screen transfer. Skip this path if the option is missing or immediately returns the carrier contact message.
You should see: Either the eSIM transfers successfully, or you confirm nearby transfer is not available for this line.
Complete any carrier setup banner
If a banner says Finish Setting Up Your Carrier’s Cellular Plan, tap it and follow the carrier screens. Sign in only in the official carrier app or Apple Settings flow—not in unexpected texts or popups.
You should see: The carrier flow continues or clearly states that support must finish activation.
Activate with the carrier when required
If the phone says contact your carrier to set up eSIM, use the carrier’s official app, website, QR code, or support chat to issue a new eSIM for the new iPhone. Have the new phone’s EID or IMEI ready if they ask.
You should see: The carrier assigns an eSIM and the iPhone shows Cellular with signal bars after install.
Confirm the old line is released
After the new iPhone has service, check that the number works for calls and texts. Only erase the old iPhone after the new line is confirmed active.
You should see: The number works on the new iPhone and the old phone can be retired safely.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Messages such as unable to set up cellular, contact your carrier, Finish Setting Up Your Carrier’s Cellular Plan, and whether Transfer From Nearby iPhone appears.
Before you change anything: Keep the old iPhone powered on nearby with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi available. Know your carrier account login or account PIN. Back up the old iPhone before erasing anything. Never share carrier one-time codes with unexpected callers.