Choosing a Copier Dealer

One of the most important criteria to select a copier dealer is “service” since every copier requires a periodic servicing to ensure its smooth working its life time. Besides service, other important factors that need to be evaluated when selecting a dealer are:

• Reputation of the dealer
• Availability of multiple brands
• Clients serviced
• Extent of service and maintenance contracts
• Number of in-house technicians
• Use of manufacturer’s parts and supplies when servicing
• Loaner service

Ask the dealer important questions to get a better idea of the dealer’s ability to meet your requirements before making a purchase. Make sure that you find out information (including by talking to technicians) such as:

• Dealer’s recommendation of the brand that sells more
• The best selling model among your chosen category
• The policy maintained by the dealer for breakdowns
• Any time limits placed for responding after repairs
• Rise in service costs over the years
• Availability of local technicians
• Installation and service experience of technicians
• Talk to the technicians, if required.

You can also obtain references of current clients serviced by the dealer and obtain a first hand account from a user with regard to:

• Satisfaction with the product
• Satisfaction with service
• Benefits received from dealer, if any
• Expertise of technicians etc.

Purchasing the copier from an authorized dealer is an excellent option. Though most manufacturers provide warranties for repairs and replacements, the assurance of a local technician who can attend to the machine as and when required is a decisive factor in considering an authorized dealer.