Starting a business takes a considerably amount of money. Not only do premises have to be leased, but an office needs equipment such as desks, chair, cabinets, computers, a copy machine, stationery, etc. Buying these items new might set you back thousands of dollars, but knowing how to cut costs on office equipment might save you a considerable amount.
eBay
A great place to start looking for bargains is eBay. At eBay you can find everything, new and used office equipment, items you can buy outright and items on auction. Whether you’re looking for something modern, or something rustic, you’re sure to find at a reasonable price.
Brand vs. Generic
When shopping for stationery, compare prices. Quite often you can save money by buying generic products vs. name brand products. Where it comes to pens, pencils, highlighters, sticky notes, copy paper, staples, etc. is it really that important to have a name brand?
Buy Selective
Check out the local vendors in your neighbourhood, especially those who only sell via a website. Online vendors invariably can offer you discounted office supplies apposed to companies with those with physical premises, because they don’t have overhead costs such as leasing a store, electricity, staff, etc. Don’t be afraid to negotiate with them. If you make it clear that you’ll be a returning customer, they might give you a deal.
Paper and Ink
Keep printing to a minimum by giving preference to email vs. snail mail. If you have to send a large document, rather than printing it, convert it into a PDF. If you have to print, give preference to a black printer/copier vs. a colour printer/copier. For a machine that handles colour you need three types of toner, while for plain printing you only need black. Make it also a habit to set the printer for double sided printing rather than single sided. This will save you on paper.
Use Freebates
Check the weekly flyers from various office supply stores. When copy paper, toner, binders or pens are on sale, stock up on them. Some supply stores even offer items for free or with a rebate.
Save on Power
Whether for overhead lighting or desk lamps, choose LED bulbs vs. regular bulbs. LED bulbs consume considerably less electricity than regular bulbs. And not only do LED bulbs use less power, their lifespan is much longer.
Encourage your employees to power down all equipment when they are leaving for the day. Even in sleep mode, a copier, fax machine and computer use electricity.
Switch the lights off in the office when it’s time to go home. If you’re a friend of the environment and prefer to keep the lights on, install a dimmer. By dimming the light you’ll see a significant reduction in your power bill.
Cutting costs on office equipment is all about comparing prices, negotiating, and paying attention to everyday activities.
