Toner pirates are what we in my industry call companies who sell copier toner to businesses who have a maintenance contract that includes toner.
The calls come from out-of-state claiming toner prices are going to increase significantly, HOWEVER, you can still get it for the current price if you act now! They have enough information – no I don’t know how – to sound extremely credible.
Here are some tips if you fall prey to this unethical practice:
If you are not sure, review your maintenance contract with your Account Manager, to be sure toner is included in your contract.
Review the procedure for ordering copier toner with your office staff. If they know the process they will be a valuable resource for stopping a potentially costly mistake.
Understand your copier vendor would never pressure you to have too much extra inventory on hand.
Ask your vendor how much lead time you need to receive your copier toner in a timely fashion. Most toner can be ordered as little as a few days in advance.
When the copier gives the low toner message, you will still be able to make copies before it goes down. Copiers vary with how many copies you can still make, but, some are as many as 500-1000 copies.
If someone does fall prey, don’t panic, when the package arrives, you can refuse the order at your door.
The shipping company will take it back to the Toner Pirates and no one will have to walk the plank at your office.
Smooth sailing Mateys!
Carolebbs's Blog 