Consider a Used Copier When Purchasing Office Equipment

People who want to buy copiers usually believe that brand new equipment is preferable to used equipment. In my opinion, this is not always the case. There are times used equipment can serve the owner just as well as the brand new equipment.  In this economy, many small business owners may not have a lot of money to spend on new office equipment, especially start-ups.

Many people avoid buying used office equipment because they think the product in question may not work properly. One of the best sources for a used copier is an off-lease copier that has been refurbished by the manufacturer.  The manufacturer knows this equipment best.  And it is in the best interest of the manufacturer to provide properly refurbished copiers to their sellers to maintain their reputation.

My advice when you buy a used copier is to verify that the components in the copier are OEM. The abbreviation OEM stands for “original equipment manufacturer”. It makes sense to ensure that all the parts which have been replaced are from the original manufacturer. The parts that are typically replaced include the drum, fuser rollers, belts, bearings, developers, and clutches/gears.  The copier should also be cleaned on the inside and outside and will have all of its features in working order.

Make sure that the firmware (software that runs the copier) has been updated as well.  Manufacturers release firmware upgrades from time to time which need to be installed on the copier.  These updates fix bugs, may provide additional new features, and keep your used copier at its optimum performance.

Find a copier repair company that provides the best support for this office equipment.  They should offer both a warranty program and maintenance agreements. Some companies offer a 60- or 90-day warranty.  I suggest the longer term.  If a copier repair company is willing to provide a 90-day warranty, it is a sign that they will stand behind the equipment.

A maintenance agreement will protect your investment beyond the 90-day warranty to keep your used copier up and running. This investment will save on the expensive cost of service calls and part replacements once the warranty expires.  The copier repair company should have competent, certified technicians that have been properly trained to service your used copier.

Used copiers can save small businesses money in this economy.  We can’t afford to look at “used” office equipment and think it isn’t as valuable.  If you follow my suggestions by finding the right copier company to buy from that also services this equipment, you will probably find the right used copier for your small business.

Leave your comments below. What was your experience in purchasing a used copier?