Tips to avoid being scammed when buying a used copier

Miami seems to be the used copier capital of the US.  With the amount of businesses that pop up and quickly shut down in Miami each year, it leave a surplus of office equipment, copiers and printers floating around.  Most are brand new or leased directly from a reseller or manufacturer and are in excellent condition.  But not every used copier in Miami is diamond in the ruff.  For as many reputable companies there are out there I would say there is one scammer trying to make a quick buck.
So, if your sharp enough and ask the right questions, you can avoid losing money and gain a professional refurbished copier at a deep discount.

Here's some quick tips:

Are you buying from a well known reseller?
Do a quick Google search and check up on the company that you're dealing with.  In in a few seconds you'll be able to see what the companies reputation looks like.  If it's dismal, head for the hills.

Has the copier been refurbished or reconditioned?
There's plenty of resellers out there that simply grab used copiers from auctions and resell it without properly conditioning it.  Make sure the company you deal with has brought the machine back to it's original shine.

Look for guarantees-  A reputable refurbished copier company in Miami should be able to grant some sort of warranty or guarantee in WRITING.

Doing a little leg work and not purchasing the first refurbished copier you come across may save you some money in the long run.

New VS Used- More than dollars and cents.

When it comes to smart business, there's certainly nothing wrong with buying used office equipment.  Not only does it help your pockets, but potentially helps reduce waste.  New copiers can run upwards of $10,000, while a quality refurbished copier may only cost a couple hundred dollars.  Assuming that you are dealing with a reputable retailer, than has some sort of guarantee, it seems like a no-brainer.

Important factors to consider when buying refurbished copiers:

- Is the unit restored back to factory standards?
- Is there a maintenance agreement?
- Will all software be provided?

Additonally, It's best to consider local companies that services other local small business.  Typically, they have a higher sucess rate at customer retention.  Usually the larger copier companies focus on the bottom line, while the smaller companies are split between profit and service.  They understand what it means to be a small business and they understand that service is a priority in their industry.

If you are in the market for a used copier or refurbished copier, it's best to ask the right questions and do your due dilligence.  Beward of companies that sell from the back of a truck or back alley.  Most reputable companies should have a fully stocked warehouse, customer service staff and sales team.  Anything less, you may be getting what you pay for!