It does not cost anything to switch from one provider to another as long as you are not currently under contract. You can even keep your same number through phone number portability. Also, cell phones are not transferable between service providers and you would need to buy a new cell phone, although through getting a two year contract you can get most cell phones for free or less than $100.00 for a high end blackberry. Hopefully in the future they will allow you to keep your phone and switch providers.
Many times a phone company you are not with will offer a discount or special rate for a period of time.Good way to play the system if you do not mind playing the switchable game.
I'm not sure if this is correct but my friend
did it
she said you have to pay 500$ to switch the phone to a new provider
did it
she said you have to pay 500$ to switch the phone to a new provider