At Pahoda Copiers & Printers, we often get asked, “What should I do with my old copier?“ Whether you’re upgrading to a new machine or simply no longer need your current one, there are several options to consider.
From keeping it as a backup device to eco-friendly recycling, knowing the best way to handle your old copier can save you time, money, and potential headaches.
By the End of This Article, You Will Learn:
- The best options for handling your old copier.
- Why keeping it as a backup device might be a smart move.
- How electronics recycling can be an eco-friendly disposal option.
- Whether selling your old copier is worth the effort.
- What to do with leftover copier supplies—and why service contracts matter.
What Are Your Options for an Old Copier?
If you’re replacing a copier, you may be wondering what to do with the old one. Whether you own it outright or need to return it at the end of a lease, here are the best ways to handle an outdated copier.
1. Keep It as a Backup Device
If your business relies heavily on printing, keeping your old copier as a backup device can be valuable.
✔ Ideal for industries that require paper-based processes, like title companies, law firms, or medical offices.
✔ If your new copier breaks down, you won’t be left without a way to print or copy important documents.
✔ Since it’s already installed, there’s no need for extra setup—you just plug it in when needed.
🔹 Best For: Businesses that can spare the space and want a reliable fallback option in case of copier downtime.
2. Recycle It in an Eco-Friendly Manner
If space is limited or the copier is outdated and unreliable, electronics recycling is a great option.
✔ Many recycling companies properly dispose of old copiers in an environmentally friendly way.
✔ Prevents electronic waste from ending up in landfills.
✔ Some programs may offer pickup services, saving you time and effort.
🔹 Best For: Businesses looking for an eco-conscious way to dispose of old equipment.
3. Sell It on the Open Market (If It Still Works)
Some older copiers still have resale value, though it won’t be much—most businesses upgrade their copiers every 3-5 years, making older models less desirable.
✔ You might get a small return by listing it for sale on platforms like eBay, Craigslist, or office liquidation marketplaces.
✔ Some businesses looking for a low-cost copier may be willing to buy it for parts or basic use.
🔹 Best For: Businesses looking to recoup a small amount from an older copier rather than disposing of it.
📌 Reality Check: Selling an old copier isn’t always worth the hassle, as newer models are in higher demand, and buyers often prefer devices with ongoing support.
4. Let Us Handle the Removal for You
✔ Easiest option—we can schedule the pickup and removal for you.
✔ The cost of removal can often be included in a new lease agreement, so you don’t have to arrange or pay for a separate pickup.
✔ Ensures the copier is properly disposed of or resold according to your needs.
🔹 Best For: Businesses that don’t want to deal with logistics and prefer a hassle-free way to remove their old copier.
📌 Bonus Tip: If you don’t want the copier, but you have leftover supplies, you might be able to sell extra toner or parts separately (unless your copier was under contract—see below).
5. Be Careful with Leftover Supplies (If You Had a Service Contract!)
Many businesses forget that copier supplies may belong to the dealer if the copier was under a service contract.
✔ If the copier was on a service plan, the toner, drums, and parts technically belong to the dealer.
✔ Selling those supplies could result in unexpected charges—some dealers bill businesses for unreturned supplies because the cost was factored into the contract.
✔ Individual toner cartridges and parts can cost $200-$300 each, so dealers want them returned.
🔹 Best For: Businesses that want to avoid unexpected fees at the end of a lease.
📌 Pro Tip: If your copier was under a contract, check with your dealer before selling or disposing of supplies to avoid unnecessary charges.
Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Option for You?
✔ Keep it as a backup if you rely on printing and want a safety net.
✔ Recycle it if you want an eco-friendly solution.
✔ Sell it if it still works and you want to recoup some value (though it may not be much).
✔ Let us handle the removal if you want a hassle-free experience.
✔ Return unused supplies if your copier was under contract to avoid unexpected charges.
At Pahoda Copiers & Printers, we help businesses navigate copier upgrades and removals smoothly. Whether you need help recycling, reselling, or removing your old copier, we’ve got you covered.
📞 Contact us today to find the best option for your old copier!
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