Quick: how many cell phone companies can you name?

Most people can at least name Sprint, Verizon, Cingular, T-Mobile and their regional baby bell or other phone service provider. If youve been watching the ads, you can add another four or five companies easily. How do you know which one is best for you?

Its like shopping for anything else. You must do your legwork. Research the companies and make a comparison. Include your gut feel in your decision, then make the choice that feels right for you.

First, get recommendations from family and friends. Then, listen for ads and specials. Check the phone book or do an online search for cell phone providers in your area. Find out what they like best about the service. What do they like least? Have they ever had any problems with the phone, the service or the bills? How was that problem resolved? Were they happy with the customer service personnel?

Get out a piece of paper and make a list. Create a column for the various factors you want to include in your decision. We recommend that you list the name of the company, then their plans including how many minutes and how much you will pay for a phone.

How much deposit do they need? How long is the contract? When do your night minutes begin? Is there a charge for long distance? How long is the warranty on the phone? What happens if you want to change plans? Is there coverage outside of major metropolitan areas? How much is roaming? Is there a plan that will reduce your roaming charges? Do you get charged for calls made to customers of the same service provider? Or are calls in their network free or at reduced rates?

Then, when you have enough information, see which plans you liked best. What suits your needs? Did you like the customer service person who explained their services to you? Did you get any good recommendations on the company? Narrow it down and then make your choice. If you do good research, you will most likely be satisfied with your buying decision. Go ahead, get started now with some web searches. Then call for more details. Youll be on your way to a good cell phone provider.