Office and Technology Solutions – Things to consider

Based on our wide experience of the industry we offer the following guidance:

Customers who enter into direct agreements with commercial dealers can find themselves locked into a contract which is both inflexible and expensive.  All Hampshire County Council contracts protect customers against these situations.  Please check carefully the agreements offered before signing, and beware of the following pitfalls when signing off contract:

• A five year third-party finance agreement can prove very expensive when a dealer proposes a machine upgrade towards the end of the five year period.
• Third-party finance companies who charge interest for late payments.
• Machine insurance cover not provided.
• Extra quarter's rental may be added at the start or end of the contract.
• Minimum billing for cost per copy service charges can be expensive during quiet periods (August) and may also penalise you further during busy periods for exceeding average volumes.
• Service charges that increase every year.
• No support if service level agreements are not achieved.
• Second-hand, or reconditioned, instead of new equipment.
• Machine delivery is chargeable.
• Machine collection is chargeable at the end of the contract.
• Training requests are chargeable.
• A3 copies are charged on a double-click (ie. 2 x A4).
• Staples are charged.

Further advice

If you wish to discuss any aspect of choosing and upgrading your copier please contact Tracey Mort at County Supplies who will be pleased to discuss your requirements and offer advice.

Tel: (01962) 826926

E-mail: tracey.mort@hants.gov.uk