Top Copier Mistakes Colorado Startups Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Starting a business in Colorado is exciting—whether you’re launching your dream tech startup in Boulder or opening a boutique marketing agency in Denver, every decision you make matters. But one area many startups overlook? Choosing the right copier and managing print solutions efficiently.

It might not seem like a big deal at first. After all, how complicated can printing be? But here’s the thing: copier-related mistakes can drain your time, money, and productivity faster than you’d expect—especially when you’re still growing your client base and managing lean operations.

Let’s take a closer look at the top copier mistakes Colorado startups make—and more importantly, how you can avoid them from the start.

1. Underestimating Print Volume and Needs

Guessing your print needs instead of evaluating them properly is a top mistake. It’s tempting to grab the cheapest device or reuse an old hand-me-down—but that usually backfires.

How to Avoid It:

• Assess your current and projected monthly print usage.
• Determine if you’ll be printing marketing materials, contracts, or graphics.
• Consider color vs. black-and-white, single vs. duplex printing.
• Work with a local Colorado copier vendor for tailored recommendations.

2. Buying Instead of Leasing

Leasing is often better for startups than purchasing outright. It keeps your capital free and often includes service and support.

How to Avoid It:

• Lease with flexible terms and upgrade options.
• Explore Managed Print Services (MPS) packages.
• Stay agile with scalable equipment as your business grows.

3. Ignoring Service and Support Agreements

When your copier breaks, productivity halts—unless you’ve planned ahead.

How to Avoid It:

• Include a service agreement with your lease or purchase.
• Choose a Colorado-based provider for faster on-site support.
• Ensure preventive maintenance is part of your plan.

4. Choosing the Wrong Type of Copier (Inkjet vs. Laser)

Inkjet may seem cheap—but laser multifunction devices are often more efficient and cost-effective for business use.

How to Avoid It:

• Reserve inkjet for low-volume or photo-specific tasks.
• Stick with business brands like Canon, Kyocera, HP, Epson, or Xerox.
• Look for multifunction units that scan, copy, and fax in addition to printing.

5. Not Securing Your Devices

Copiers are part of your network—and can be a security risk if unmanaged.

How to Avoid It:

• Choose models with user authentication and encryption.
• Implement access control and audit trails for sensitive documents.
• Partner with a provider offering cybersecurity support.

6. Forgetting About Scalability

Your team and output will likely grow—so your copier should too.

How to Avoid It:

• Select equipment that supports future upgrades and accessories.
• Monitor usage trends with print reports and analytics.
• Utilize flexible Managed Print Services that scale with your needs.

7. Skipping User Training

If your team doesn’t know how to use your copier, you’ll lose efficiency fast.

How to Avoid It:

• Request staff training when your copier is installed.
• Post quick-reference guides at the machine.
• Choose devices with intuitive, touchscreen interfaces.

8. Neglecting Environmental Impact and Energy Efficiency

Eco-conscious startups can align their printing with their values.

How to Avoid It:

• Choose Energy Star certified devices.
• Use recycled paper and set defaults to duplex printing.
• Leverage rules-based printing to reduce waste.

9. Not Considering Remote and Hybrid Printing Needs

With hybrid teams, printing needs to be accessible and secure—anywhere.

How to Avoid It:

• Enable mobile printing (AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, etc.).
• Adopt cloud-based document workflows.
• Use secure pull-printing to protect shared devices.

10. Going with a National Vendor Instead of a Local Partner

Big-box vendors can’t match the responsiveness of a local Colorado team.

How to Avoid It:

• Choose a trusted local partner like ABT.
• Get faster repairs, tailored advice, and long-term support.
• Support other Colorado businesses—our kids go to school here too!

Final Thoughts: Set Your Startup Up for Success

Every decision matters when you’re launching a business—and the right copier setup helps streamline workflows, control costs, and keep your team productive.

ABT is here to help Colorado startups avoid costly mistakes. From equipment selection to full-service print management, we’ll customize the right solution for your needs and budget.

🚀 Ready to Avoid These Mistakes?

Let’s talk. Whether you’re just starting or scaling fast, we’ll help you build a smart, secure, and scalable print environment.

• 📞 Call us: (303) 778-0600 or (719) 434-4080
• 📍 Serving: Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, and the Front Range
• 📩 Click here to schedule a free print assessment