If you’ve never purchased a copy machine before, it can be overwhelming... sorting through all the copier brands and features, calculating the volume of copies needed, deciding whether to buy or lease, new or used, and from whom.
Since most business copy machines don't come cheap, it pays to do your homework before buying. Here are a few pointers.
Copy Machines 101: Tips for First Time Buyers
1. Research Copy Machines Online. The Internet is a great place to start your research into copy machines, their features, costs, etc. There are several websites, including CopiersCopiers.com, that offer comprehensive descriptions of their brands and models to help first time buyers get educated before buying.
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2. Best Copy Machine Brands. Ask around. The people you work with and do business with may have used a particular brand of copy machine and had a good or bad experience with it. Ask about things like ease of use, quality of printing, break downs, cost of repairs, ease of getting warranty service and locating certified technicians. Here are the most popular and well established copy machine companies: Canon, Konica Minolta, Kyocera Mita, Panasonic, Ricoh, Sharp, Toshiba, and Xerox.
3. Most Popular Features. Late model copy machines have user-friendly innovations like:
a. Automatic Document Feeders (ADF) that feed originals into the copier.
b. Sorting and finishing features like document sorting, stapling, folding, etc.
c. Multiuse copy machines that can scan, copy, print and fax.
d. Onboard computers that store documents in the copier and permit network printing.
4.New vs. Used Copy Machines. Used, refurbished copy machines are a great option for offices on a budget. Just make sure the vendor is prepared to offer the following:
At least a 30 day unconditional warranty and longer limited warranty.
A guarantee the copy machine will work on delivery.
Details on how to get warranty service on site.
A thoroughly remanufactured and tuned up copier.
Information on how the copy machine was used in its previous life.
Proof that the company has a solid reputation in the industry.
Access to their support staff by phone or email.
A physical address indicated on the website.
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5. Leasing vs. Buying. Copy machine leasing companies are there to make your life easier, but you pay a steep price for that – lease payments that leave you with no asset at the end of the contract. Buying new is extremely costly. This is why so many people are turning to used, refurbished copy machines. As long as you buy from a reputable second hand dealer that offers a good warranty, this is an excellent way to save money and help your office go green by reusing and recycling.
6. Dealer vs. Private Seller. Buying a copy machine from a private seller on Craig’s List may seem like an economical idea, but remember these copiers haven’t been refurbished for resale and come with no warranty, so it’s buyer beware. A dealership with qualified staff and a good reputation is your safest option.
7. Analog vs. Digital. There are still some analog copy machines in circulation and likely at a great low price... for a reason. Digital has taken over the industry due to its versatility and reliability, so parts and service are getting harder to find for analog dinosaurs. Most vendors recommend digital copiers only, even if your budget requires you to buy a second hand one.
8. The Speed You Need. Some large format blueprint copiers can only churn out 4 ppm (pages per minute) while the high speed, high volume copy machines can do 100 ppm or more. You’ll likely need something in the middle. Before shopping for a new or used copy machine, try to calculate your need for speed so you don’t end up paying more for a much faster machine than necessary.
If you’re ready to start your research or your shopping, click to see our selection of used copy machines.
Please remember this isn’t our complete inventory, we have many more available. Call and tell us what you’re looking for in a used, rebuilt copy machine... or just call to ask us your questions. That’s what we’re here for!
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