BUYING SECOND-HAND items sounds really inviting as it is economical and earth-friendly. However, as good as it sounds, it does come with some downsides. As such, you must be wary of purchasing second-hand objects.
Copier, as an important tool in the workplace, is expected to be of high demand, purchasing second-hand ones can be a good option – if not the only option – for offices on tight budgets.
Hence, here are some things you need to know before buying second-hand copiers as inspired by Copier Guide and Office Technology:
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Check its performance.
Apparently, you are going to have to see if what your buying is worth your money. Features like black-and-white and color performances, duplexing, and ability to copy from an automatic document feeder (ADF) can be tested. Checking the network card and menu system can also help.
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Consider its age.
You can find the age of most copiers stamped on the machine itself: date of manufacture along with the serial number (if it has neither, you might want to reconsider purchasing the copier). You can also gauge its age by its model. The older the copier, the cheaper it must be. Important parts including cleaning blades, drums, and toner must have been replaced or at least be in place still. Otherwise, the service of these must be factored in the price.
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Consider the availability of spares.
Certain things like ink and/or toner must still be available in the market while the copier is in your possession. Aside from its availability, you may want to know if the ink and/or toner they are selling are aftermarket ones which may have “gummed up” already.
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Know what it did before.
How much work the copier did before tells a lot about its wear-and-tear and how long it’s going to last in your hands. Be careful with purchasing ex-lease copiers, like those from Albuquerque, since they may have already undergone heavy use.
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Lease it before buying.
If you’re having doubts about the copier but want to give it a try, lease it first. Assess the copier’s condition and ability to provide your need, see if it is worth what you’re going to pay for.
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Look at the cover.
Are there cracks and scratches? Are there worn-out or missing buttons? If so, it is highly advised that you look into a different copier to buy.
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Look into new features.
Before settling on buying a used copier, you may want to consider buying a brand new one instead. Brand new copiers in the market may offer better features suited for your needs, and it may actually be a better investment than a used one.