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Toner Pirates Are Costing Consumers Millions
You can protect your company by learning to recognize the scams and understand
your rights.
The office supplies peddled by these bogus firms could cost you up to ten times
the amount it would cost through James Imaging and are often of poor quality.
The caller may pretend to be James Imaging, a replacement, or an authorized supplier.
They may also falsely claim that prices are going up soon, or a computer glitch
delayed notification of a price increase, but, as a courtesy, an order has been
reserved at the "regular" or "old" price. Some companies will even call and ask
your receptionist who the person is that orders your supplies and what your address
is. They will then send you supplies that you never ordered. They will delay mailing
you an invoice with inflated pricing, hoping you will use the supplies before
you check into where they came from.
How can you avoid becoming a victim?
1. Have a specific individual do your supply ordering. Train your receptionist
not to give out this individual's name.
2. Know who your supply representative is. Our supply rep will send you their
business card to keep on hand. Please keep this near your phone for easy access.
3. If you are suspicious that you may be talking to a toner pirate, get specifics.
If they claim they are a current supplier, know and ask them what your account
number or maintenance agreement number is. Ask them to fax your pricing in writing,
or ask for references.
4. Issue a written PO with an authorized signature and purchase order number.
5. When merchandise arrives, your receiving employee should verify that it matches
the packing list -paying special attention to brands and quantity - and your purchase
order
6. Don't pay bills unless they match your documentation.
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