Used Copier Dealers Near Me: What to Ask Before You Buy
If you’re a small business owner trying to keep your office running smoothly on a tight budget, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions I get is: “Where can I find a reliable used copier dealer near me—and how do I know I’m not getting ripped off?”
After more than a decade in the office equipment business, I’ve seen firsthand how a gently used copier can save you thousands—if you know what to look for. But I’ve also seen businesses buy the wrong machine from the wrong dealer and end up paying for it in service calls, downtime, and early replacement.
So before you sign anything, here’s what I recommend asking every used copier dealer in your area—whether you’re in Illinois like me or anywhere else across the country.
1. Is the Copier Certified or Just “Used”?
Not all used copiers are created equal.
Some dealers sell machines that were pulled straight from an old office, barely wiped down, and listed for resale. Others go the extra mile to refurbish, inspect, and certify their used inventory. That means replacing worn parts, testing all functions, updating firmware, and ensuring the machine performs like new.
Ask the dealer:
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Has this copier been refurbished or reconditioned?
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Is there a certification or inspection checklist available?
If they can’t give you a straight answer or show you documentation, move on.
2. How Many Pages Has It Printed?
Every copier has a lifespan based on how many pages it can realistically produce over time. This is called the duty cycle.
It’s a lot like a car’s mileage. A copier that’s only printed 50,000 pages may have years of life left, while one with over 2 million prints could be near the end of the road—even if it looks great on the outside.
Ask:
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What’s the total page count on this machine?
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What’s its monthly and lifetime duty cycle?
Then compare that to your business’s average monthly print volume to make sure it can handle your workload without wearing out too quickly.
3. Can You See a Demo or Test It?
If you’re shopping locally, don’t be afraid to ask for a demo. A good dealer will let you test the machine in person, show you how it works, and walk you through its key functions.
You want to see:
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Clean copy quality (no streaks or smudges)
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Fast warm-up and print speeds
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Working scan, fax, or finishing features (if included)
If you’re buying remotely, ask for a video demo or performance report.
4. What’s Included in the Price?
You might find a great deal on a used copier—until you realize nothing else comes with it.
Make sure to ask:
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Are delivery and installation included?
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Does it come with a toner starter kit or supplies?
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Is training or user setup part of the service?
Also clarify whether the listed price includes taxes or any added service fees.
5. Is There a Warranty or Service Agreement?
Even a refurbished copier can develop issues over time, especially if it’s being moved into a high-volume office.
Ask the dealer:
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Do you offer a warranty—and what does it cover?
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Can I bundle this copier with a service contract?
A standard 90-day warranty is common on used equipment, but some dealers (including my company) offer extended coverage or monthly service plans to give you peace of mind.
If the dealer sells without any warranty at all, consider that a red flag.
6. Are Parts and Toner Easy to Find?
Some older copiers were great in their day—but now they’re hard to maintain because parts and consumables are no longer widely available.
You don’t want to buy a bargain machine only to find out the toner is discontinued or service techs can’t work on it.
Ask:
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Is this model still supported by the manufacturer?
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How easy is it to find toner, drums, or replacement parts?
I always recommend sticking with major brands like Canon, Sharp, Ricoh, or Xerox—models that are still actively supported.
7. Who Do I Call If Something Goes Wrong?
Service is everything. A great copier from a bad dealer is still a bad deal.
Before buying, find out:
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Do you handle service in-house or through a third party?
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What’s your average response time for repairs or maintenance?
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Are local technicians available in my area?
You want a dealer who won’t ghost you after the sale—and who’s built a reputation for supporting customers long after the copier is delivered.
Bonus Tip: Ask for References or Reviews
Reputable dealers are proud of their service history. If they’ve helped local law firms, medical offices, or schools in your area, they should be able to point you to customer testimonials, online reviews, or case studies.
Take five minutes to Google the company name with the word “reviews.” You’ll quickly get a sense of how they treat their customers.
Final Thoughts
Buying a used copier is a smart move—if you’re working with the right dealer and asking the right questions. Don’t let flashy pricing or quick talk distract you from the facts. Take the time to ask the questions above, and you’ll avoid costly mistakes while finding a machine that fits your business and budget.
Whether you’re outfitting a small startup or replacing an outdated machine in your office, my goal is always the same: helping you find reliable equipment that works hard without breaking the bank.
About the Author
I’m Audrey Fellerman, a New York University graduate with a degree in Business Technology and the owner of a successful commercial office equipment leasing company in Illinois. With over 12 years in the industry, I specialize in helping small businesses find cost-effective copier solutions that don’t compromise on performance. I also write for Commercial Copy Machine, where I share practical advice to help business owners make smarter tech decisions.
