You’ll definitely have heard the phrase that “cheapest doesn’t always mean best”, and that definitely rings true when it comes to photocopier contracts. Despite this, many businesses fall into the trap of choosing the cheapest photocopier contracts. At first glance, these contracts might seem like a more cost-effective choice, but they often come with hidden costs that can make them significantly more expensive in the long run.

In this blog, we will uncover the often-overlooked costs associated with low-priced photocopier contracts and why it’s important to add up all of the extra fees to understand if a contract is genuinely cheaper.

Understanding the true cost

When evaluating photocopier contracts, it’s really important to look beyond the initial price. This might sound a bit strange, but the true cost of the contract goes beyond just what you pay upfront. Let’s break it down:

Initial price

The initial price of the photocopier is the most obvious cost. This is the amount you pay upfront to acquire the machine. However, be warned, a low initial price can be a lure that distracts from the more significant expenses that come later.

cost of photocopier

Maintenance and repairs

Photocopiers, like any other machine, require regular maintenance to ensure they stay performing at their best. Cheap contracts often have limited maintenance coverage, leading to frequent out-of-pocket expenses for servicing and repairs. Additionally, the quality of service provided under these contracts can be quite lacklustre, resulting in longer downtimes and decreased productivity – two things no business wants to deal with!

Hidden fees

Cheap photocopier contracts can also come with a variety of hidden fees. These can include charges for setup, delivery, and even training on how to use the machine. Additionally, there may be fees for exceeding a certain number of copies or prints per month, which can be particularly costly for businesses with high-volume needs.

Risks of cheap contracts

We get it – the allure of a low upfront cost is strong. But it’s still key to consider the long-term risks and potential expenses that can arise from cheap photocopier contracts. This can include:

Misleading initial costs

A low initial cost can be misleading. A low quarterly cost initially might appear to save you money upfront but when you look at the service agreement terms and conditions of many suppliers, over time these all add up and what at first appeared to be a budget-friendly option can become a financial burden.

Poor service quality

Contracts with low costs often come with compromises in service quality. This can mean slower response times for repairs, less frequent maintenance visits, and even lower-quality customer support. Poor service can lead to increased downtime, affecting your business operations and causing you more than a few headaches along the way.

Increased downtime

Cheap contracts might not include service agreements, leading to increased downtime when the machine breaks down. Every hour your photocopier is out of service can translate to lost productivity and potential revenue. In contrast, more costly and thorough contracts typically offer quicker response times and better overall service, ensuring minimal disruption to your business. In other words, you get what you pay for!

photocopier contracts

Limited upgrades and flexibility

Cheap contracts often come with rigid terms and limited flexibility. As your business grows and your needs change, you might find that your contract does not allow for necessary upgrades or adjustments without incurring significant additional costs.

The Midrepo advantage

At Midrepo, we recognise that we may not always offer the cheapest contracts, but this is because we are committed to providing full-service printing solutions that ensure business continuity and long-term cost savings. Here’s why choosing us is a wise investment:

Comprehensive service

We offer comprehensive service agreements that cover regular maintenance, repairs, and even replacement parts. This ensures that your photocopier remains in tip-top condition, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

Transparent pricing

We don’t believe in doing things the sneaky way; our pricing is fully transparent with no hidden fees. All costs are clearly outlined in the contract which allows you to budget more effectively and avoid unpleasant surprises that will leave you out of pocket.

quality photocopier

Quality supplies

We provide high-quality supplies that not only ensure the longevity of your photocopier, but also allow for better print quality, enhancing your professional image.

Reliable support

We take a huge amount of pride in offering customer support that is reliable and responsive. In the event of an issue, our technicians are quick to respond and resolve problems, helping to reduce downtime and get you back up and running fast.

Flexibility and upgrades

As your business evolves and grows, so do your photocopier needs. We offer flexible contracts that can be adjusted to accommodate growth and changing requirements. This means you can upgrade your equipment without it costing you an arm and a leg!

Want to know how we can help your business with your printing needs? Contact us today for a friendly, no-obligation chat.