Anyone who is interested in establishing an independently owned printing shop would be wise to think about buying pre-owned and reconditioned machinery. These machines provide the ability to supply massive amounts of quality print output and will offer significant savings over brand new. It is possible to acquire the needed prepress equipment and the CTP capabilities required for a mere fraction of the cost of new machinery and will be every bit as efficient. Huge orders demand printers that are in a-one shape and not likely to stop working abruptly that would cause problems meeting client deadlines so regularly scheduled maintenance particularly on used and refurbished gear is an absolute must. This ensures reliability that can be anticipated when your printing work horses are needed the most. But, what are the signs that a company that provides maintenance on the machines will meet your high standards? Here are several things to look for before entering a maintenance contract:

1. What do their existing customers rate them? References should not only be given by a potential business provider but should definitely be followed up on. Other comparable businesses have no hidden agenda by not revealing their satisfaction, or lack thereof with the service currently being offered and you might gain valuable insights on the company.

2. Are the maintenance workers totally educated in the upkeep and functionality of each of your machines? This is even more important when you have invested heavily in used and refurbished gear and the technology is older and possibly not familiar to a recently trained employee.

3. What is the policy regarding after hour machine breakdowns? Does the maintenance fee cover these costs or does the rate rise exorbitantly high if service is required on a weekend or even a holiday if you are forced to work extra hours to complete a client order? Emergencies usually do not occur frequently but they do occur and should be anticipated when considering the services of a maintenance company.

4. Will you be assigned a worker who will consistently visit your place of business and will be given the duty to talk over his work with you face to face every time he comes? This is a great way to follow up on a written assessment of the condition of your printing devices and will establish rapport for a more comfortable working relationship. It also will alert you to the current state of any given machine and will provide a heads up that its working life may be coming to an end and will have to be replaced soon.

5. Is there an established contact person in the experience of a genuine emergency such as a lightning strike or a fire at your business? Who is the authorized person to {provide you with above and beyond service in your time of need|give you extraordinary attention when you need it the most? Just having the name of a designated contact person will bring peace of mind to an overworked business owner. Every business owner should have a written an emergency plan that includes names and phone numbers not only of all employees but also any service provider that could render assistance in an emergency.