Evaluating color printer dealers

Buying online or from an office superstore is fine for low-end printers, where your only concern is price. For quality business printers, though, establishing a relationship with a printer vendor can provide better results in the long term.

Printer dealers usually carry lines from multiple manufacturers, allowing you to compare print quality for yourself. The best approach is to get printouts of the same files from the models you like – this will allow you to compare models directly.

If you're looking for a mid-range to high-end printer, don't be afraid to ask for an on site trial. Many dealers will lend you a printer for a few days or a week so you can evaluate its performance in your environment. If you can get this opportunity, take advantage of it.

While size isn't necessarily the best indication of dealer quality, longevity may be. Small companies that have been around for a long time should be just as dependable as larger companies. Smaller dealers may offer a more personal touch, while larger dealers may have more of a selection, but these differences aren't critical.

Pay attention to the sales techniques of the printer salespeople as well. The best dealers will help educate you about what to look for in a printer and how to make the best choice, instead of just pushing this month's special on you. They'll also give you the exact costs for everything you want and not hit you with added costs late in the process.

Also consider checking references. Any reputable printer dealer should provide you with references to customers who purchased the exact model of printer you're considering. Ask them how responsive the dealer has been to service calls and how comfortable they feel about the technicians' level of expertise. If the printer has had any problems, find out how these problems were resolved. Of course, the dealer will connect you with their most satisfied customers, but you can still gather useful information this way.

Maintenance and service agreements
Buying from a local dealer does provide an advantage during the evaluation process: you can stop by their office and check out their service and parts departments. If your printer ever needs repairs, a well-staffed repair shop can be a lifesaver.

Like copiers, color laser printers require regular maintenance: cleaning, inspection, and replacing worn parts. Keeping your laser printer well-maintained is the best way to prolong its useful life and make sure that it runs smoothly between cleanings. A maintenance agreement will usually cover toner, drums, and all other replaceable parts, as well as regular visits to your office by a technician.

Maintenance agreements are usually priced per printed page, typically between one and two cents per copy, depending on your print volume. Other dealers may simply charge a fixed rate per year.

If you choose to buy an inkjet printer, you probably won't be able to buy a maintenance agreement. If it breaks down, it's cheaper to simply throw the inkjet out and buy a new one.