Pricing and Costs of Copiers
Budget for the pricing and costs of copiers and keep your documents flowing
Copiers have come a long way in the past decade or two. Of course, with higher quality often comes increased cost. Advanced technology has impacted the pricing and costs of copiers, from small, basic models to sophisticated color photocopiers. You'll pay a lot more for a digital or inkjet copier that collates, staples and makes two-sided copies and produces over fifty copies per minute than you will for a copier offering fewer features.
Depending on your business and how often you need to copy documents, you might need a large office copier capable of making dozens of copies per minute, or maybe your work calls for the use of color copiers. In addition, you will likely need to factor in the costs of maintenance for your copy machines. Whatever your circumstances, when gathering information about the pricing and costs of copiers, consider the following:
1. Decide whether you need a top-of-the-line copier with all the bells and whistles.
2. Select a simpler and less expensive copier if your business does not generate a large number of copies.
3. Add in costs of copier maintenance and supplies.
4. Keep pricing down by buying a used copy machine.
Prepare to Spend Some Money on High-End Copiers for Your High-Volume Business
If you're in a business that generates thousands of copies per day, a high-end copier that produces over 50 ppm (pages per minute) would work best for you. If you conduct more business through emails and faxing and find you don't need to make many copies throughout the day, then a smaller model is sufficient.
Avoid Overspending on Large Copiers if Smaller and Simpler Models Will Handle Your Needs
Bigger is not always better, or practical. If you find you send documents and other information vital to your business via email or fax and don't make a lot of trips to the copier during the course of your day, then a smaller, simpler copier will work for you. You'll fill your copying needs and save money in the long run.
Factor in Repairs and Supplies that Add to the Pricing and Costs of Copiers
Like any machine, copiers, especially workhorses that churn out hundreds or thousands of copies per day, will eventually start to wear down and need repairs. Copiers also require consistent replacement of certain parts, such as toner cartridges and developer, so it's a good idea to figure in the cost of copier supplies when buying a copier.
Stay Within or Under Budget by Shopping for Used Copy Machines
Although new copiers with all the top features are nice, perhaps your budget and your needs prevent you from indulging. If so, you might consider buying a used copier. A completely refurbished machine will cost you much less and, with proper maintenance, can last a long time, providing you with the quality and quantity of copies you need to keep your business documents flowing.
- Think about signing a service agreement offered by most copier manufacturers. In many cases, this can lower the price of the copier and give you plenty of useful services such as emergency repairs, coverage of part costs and regular maintenance visits.
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