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

One of the most common mistakes? Guessing your print needs instead of evaluating them properly. It’s tempting to grab the cheapest device on the market or reuse an old machine from someone’s garage. But if your copier can’t keep up, you’ll spend more time fixing jams and refilling toner than actually running your business.

How to Avoid It:

• Assess your actual print usage—both current and projected for the next 6–12 months.

• Determine if you’ll be printing marketing materials, contracts, or high-resolution images.

• Consider color vs. black & white and single vs. duplex printing.

• Work with a local Colorado copier vendor to get personalized recommendations.

2. Buying Instead of Leasing

It’s easy to assume buying a copier outright will save you money. But in many cases, leasing is more startup-friendly. Why? Because it preserves your capital, gives you access to better equipment, and often includes service and maintenance.

How to Avoid It:

• Consider leasing a copier with flexible terms and upgrade options.

• Explore Managed Print Services (MPS)bundles.

• Stay nimble by leasing and upgrading as your needs evolve.

3. Ignoring Service and Support Agreements

Nothing halts productivity faster than a broken copier. Without a service contract, you’ll scramble to find help when things go wrong.

How to Avoid It:

• Include a service agreement with your lease or purchase.

• Work with a Colorado-based service provider for quicker response times.

• Make sure preventive maintenance is included.

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

Inkjet might seem affordable upfront, but the long-term costs can be steep. For most startups, laser multifunction copiersare a smarter investment.

How to Avoid It:

• Use inkjet only for low-volume or photo-specific printing.

• Choose a reliable brand like Canon, Kyocera, HP, Epson, or Xerox.

• Look for all-in-one functionality: print, scan, copy, fax.

5. Not Securing Your Devices

Printers are now network-connected devices—and potential entry points for cyber threats.

How to Avoid It:

• Choose copiers with built-in security features like user authentication.

• Implement access control and encrypted document handling.

• Partner with a provider that includes cybersecurity support.

6. Forgetting About Scalability

Your needs today may not be the same six months from now. That budget desktop model might not scale with you.

How to Avoid It:

• Pick a copier that supports upgrades and additional accessories.

• Use print usage reports to monitor growth.

• Opt into scalable Managed Print Services.

7. Skipping User Training

If your team doesn’t know how to use your device efficiently, you’ll lose productivity and waste supplies.

How to Avoid It:

• Request staff training when the copier is installed.

• Post quick-reference guides near the machine.

• Choose user-friendly interfaces with touchscreen navigation.

8. Neglecting Environmental Impact and Energy Efficiency

Colorado startups are often eco-conscious, but that doesn’t always translate into sustainable printing practices.

How to Avoid It:

• Look for Energy Star certified devices.

• Use recycled paper and set default to double-sided printing.

• Enable rules-based printing to minimize waste.

9. Not Considering Remote and Hybrid Printing Needs

In today’s hybrid work environment, your team needs to print from anywhere—securely.

How to Avoid It:

• Enable mobile printing (AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, etc.).

• Use cloud-based document workflows.

• Implement secure pull-printing for shared environments.

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

National vendors can’t always provide the speed, service, and personalization that Colorado-based copier partners deliver.

How to Avoid It:

• Choose a trusted local vendor like ABT.

• Get personalized service, faster repairs, and ongoing support.

• Support fellow Colorado businesses while growing your own. This supports the community and gives back to the community in a way that national vendors can’t. (Our kids go to school here, too!)

Final Thoughts: Set Your Startup Up for Success

When you’re building something from the ground up, every decision counts—and your copier setup is no exception. The right equipment (paired with proactive service and support) helps you streamline operations, control costs, and focus on growing your business instead of fixing paper jams.

If you’re a startup based in Colorado, ABT is here to help. From expert guidance on device selection to full-service Managed Print Services, we’ll tailor a solution that fits your goals, budget, and growth plans.

🚀 Ready to Avoid These Mistakes?

Let’s talk. Whether you’re just getting started or already growing fast, we’ll help you build a smart, secure, scalable print environment that supports your success.

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