Comparing costs when buying a photocopier for a business
Choosing the right photocopier for a business is not just the purchase price. It is important to consider not just the upfront price of the photocopier, but also the long-term cost implications and what support this offers.
While the allure of a shiny new printer may be tempting, it’s vital to understand the actual cost of owning and operating such a machine. This includes:
Print Costs: Calculating the number of prints made annually can reveal whether you’re overpaying on a cost per page print basis.
Toner and Consumable Spend: Some toners are expensive to replace, and not all give you value for money in terms of longevity and print quality.
Equipment Costs: The initial outlay for the photocopier is one aspect, but consider maintenance, potential repairs, and software updates.
It is wise to conduct a print audit to evaluate these factors. This audit doesn’t not have to be onerous, and should be possible with the information printed on your latest service invoice. A service contract that covers your business photocopiers should include: the number of pages printed (colour and mono), date of current and previous readings, the equipment serial number (helpful if you have multiple photocopiers in your business) and will show any other charges.
This information will allow you to see the true costs associated with your photocopier and where savings are achievable.