A large paper supply is essential in business. Companies use paper to print documents and photographs, make copies, and create marketing materials like business cards and brochures. There are several types of paper available, each one specializing in a different business use. To run your business efficiently, it is helpful to learn about each type of white paper available.

The differences between them usually lie in both the intended use of the paper and the paper material. The following paper types are particularly useful to most businesses:

1. Copier paper is great for making copies, faxing, or just general printing.

2. Laser paper is perfect for use with a laser printer, whether you need to print out documents or brochures.

3. You can use recycled paper to print out documents, particularly when quality is not important.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use copier paper for many daily office tasks

Copier paper is a type of printer paper that is lightweight and generally multipurpose. Most companies use it for everyday printing, copying, and faxing. It is widely available at every paper store.

I recommend: Many paper suppliers offer a wide variety of copier paper for everyday office use, such as Global Equipment Company. Quill carries HP Office Copy Paper, which dries ink faster and displays color more vividly than other brands of copier paper.

Purchase laser paper to use with your company's laser printer

Laser paper is specifically designed for the toner in laser printers. Many companies use such paper to print out checks, labels, and marketing materials, as specialty paper is available for laser printers. It is typically smoother than inkjet paper.

I recommend: Many paper manufacturers carry paper for laser printers. Office World offers a selection of high-quality laser paper. Business Supply carries specialty laser paper, such as pre-scored brochure paper. Such paper products are great to use for marketing materials.

Consider using recycled paper in your office

Recycled paper is typically identical to other printer paper when it comes to size, color, and cost. However, even if you do not want to use recycled paper for marketing materials or other paper products that clients might see, you can use such paper for use within your office. It is a good idea to keep a supply of recycled paper available for employees to print out notes or emails.

I recommend: Treecycle.com offers many types of recycled office paper, great for any company. GreenLine Paper Company carries letterhead stationery and envelopes for businesses.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you plan on printing in color often, you should purchase color copy paper. Such paper is extra-bright, helping color jump out at clients. It has been found that color helps clients remember presentations easier, which should be enough reason to print in color as often as possible.