SO staff thinks it won't work since it has letters in the code

That sounds like the hexadecimal representation of the ESN. Virgin's computer should be able to convert it to decimal or compare it to the number they have on file for your account.

Rob said:

How about logging into your account at virginmobile dot ca? Once there, there is a "Phone" tab. Click on that and it will show your phone and it's ESN number.

I tried this, and the SO staff thinks it won't work since it has letters in the code... they sent the request to virgin mobile anyway, so we'll see what happens.

1) Exactly what information do I need to complete the port? I'm coming from a virgin lg 160.

You'll need to prove that it's your phone number and your phone. The specifics depend on your old carrier, for instance depending on whether you have an account with them (as you would on a contract.)

2) I heard that an EMEI number was required from my old phone, but I can't seem to find this under the battery... all I see is MEID, is that the same thing?

IMEI is a GSM term. Your phone is CDMA for which the serial number is called ESN. I imagine SO will accept either decimal or hex representations.

3) Should I activate my SO phone before requesting the port?

Your SO phone comes preactivated with a phone number already assigned. Porting simply replaces this number wiith your old number from Virgin.

Your best bet BTW is to call SO CS and ask them the above questions for your specific carrier and plan. If you prefer, you can do this before you buy a SO phone. The CS 1-800 is on the home page of this site.

The label behind the battery lists three numbers: SN (Serial number), MEID DEC (Decimal) and MEID HEX. Which of these will be needed for the port?

The SO phone comes pre-activated, so you wouldn't need to do that.

1) Exactly what information do I need to complete the port? I'm coming from a virgin lg 160.

2) I heard that an EMEI number was required from my old phone, but I can't seem to find this under the battery... all I see is MEID, is that the same thing?

If so, there is both a DEC and HEX version, which one do I need?

3) Should I activate my SO phone before requesting the port?

Thank you!