How to Compare Copier Prices

Multiple paper drawers enable you to keep the copy machine fully stocked.

A good copier is essential in any office and can enhance office productivity. Comparing and choosing the right copier with the right price for your business can be a daunting task. There are many brands with different memory, speeds, add-on packages, service contracts and price ranges from which to choose. Comparing copier prices can be easy if you follow a few simple guidelines and determine what you want your new machine to do and the price range you want to pay.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Telephone
• Yellow Pages phone directory

Instructions

1. Make a checklist of the necessary functions you need a copier to do. Think about what you do in a day with the copier that you now have. There have probably been times when you were using the copier that you mentioned features that you wish it had. This is an excellent time to include those features on your checklist. Your checklist might include some of the following: faster copier speed, more copier memory, a color copier, reduce/enlarge function or a copier/fax/printer.

2. Prioritize the list. Some functions just aren't used enough to be included at the top of the list. Remember the more functions you want in a copier means the higher the price of the copier.

3. Decide what you want in a service contract. Service contracts are important because they state the maintenance of the machine and repair of the machine. Prices vary and sometimes depend on the number of copies that are run in a month.

4. Perform an online search of copiers to compare which brands come the closest to the items on your list. The internet has made comparisons of all products easy. There are company sites that allow you to perform comparisons of the different brands. Use some search friendly keywords such as "copier price comparison","copier feature comparison" or "compare copier prices" to compile a search list with multiple places to visit.

5. Find a local dealer of copiers. By choosing a local dealer you often will get a lower price and will save on the travel expense for your copier's maintenance.

6. Negotiate the price of the copier. Copier prices can be negotiated and often you can include a trade-in of an old machine in the deal. Don't be afraid to ask if that is the lowest price that a dealer can go.

Tips & Warnings

• Service contracts that require a large amount of monthly copies should be avoided.

• Remember to inquire as to whether emergency repairs are covered in a service contract.

• Reserve talking about a "trade-in" of an old machine until the very last when negotiating prices.

• "Add-ons" can affect copier prices. Don't let a salesman talk you into features that you don't use or will never need.

References

• Office Copiers: Helpful Buyer's Guide
• Copier Basics