Those eye-catching deals on printing paper can be hard to resist – whether they’re online bargains, clearance sales, or offers from new suppliers trying to win your business.
Cheap printer paper deals can seem like an easy win, but after many years supplying paper to businesses across the nation, we’ve seen the aftermath of these “bargains” time and again.
The initial savings almost always disappear once you factor in the hidden costs that come with inferior products.
Let’s look at what’s really at stake when you consider cutting corners on your printing paper.
When ‘Cheap’ Becomes Expensive
That rock-bottom priced printing paper might look like a bargain on the invoice, but what happens when it arrives?
First, there’s the quality issue. Cheap paper typically means lower grammage (that’s the weight of the paper), poorer opacity (so text shows through from the other side), and inconsistent cutting. But the problems don’t end there.
Low-quality paper jams more frequently in printers and copiers, resulting in wasted time clearing blockages and reprinting documents – not to mention it’s incredibly annoying!
Even worse, poor-quality print paper can damage your equipment. Paper dust from inferior products tends to accumulate inside printers, contributing to maintenance issues and potentially leading to expensive repairs.
Identifying Rogue Traders in the Paper Industry
The paper industry, like any other, has its share of rogue traders. But how do you identify them before parting with your money?
Watch out for these warning signs:
- Vague or missing product specifications (no clear mention of gsm, opacity or brightness)
- No physical address – just a mobile number or generic email
- No sustainable forestry certifications (like FSC or PEFC)
- Reluctance to provide samples before ordering
- Pressure tactics suggesting “one-time offers” that need immediate decisions
- Significantly lower prices than established suppliers (30%+ cheaper should raise eyebrows)
Remember, legitimate paper merchants build long-term relationships. At Springfield, we’d rather lose a sale than sell you paper that’s not right for your needs.
The Real Value of Quality Printing Paper
High-quality paper for printing isn’t just about looking professional (though that matters too). Excellent quality print paper provides tangible benefits:
- Fewer jams and misfeeds, meaning less wasted time
- Reduced wear and tear on printers and copiers
- Better print results with sharper text and more vibrant colours
- Consistency between batches so you always know what you’re getting
- Appropriate options for different uses (not all printing needs the same paper)
For critical documents, presentations, or marketing materials, the best quality paper for printing makes a noticeable difference in how your business is perceived.
Think about it – if a supplier cuts corners on their own materials, what does that suggest about their products or services?
Finding the Right Balance
The good news is that you don’t need to break the bank for reliable paper. Finding the best quality paper doesn’t necessarily mean buying the most expensive option.
What matters is working with suppliers who understand paper, ask about your specific needs, and recommend the right product for your application. Sometimes that might be a mid-range option that delivers the perfect balance of quality and value.
At Springfield, we’ve helped thousands of businesses, schools and organisations find that all-important sweet spot – paper that performs reliably without unnecessary expense.
Make an Informed Choice With Springfield
Next time you’re tempted by suspiciously cheap printing paper, remember that the true cost includes reliability, print quality, and equipment longevity.
If you’re unsure about what paper would work best for your needs, talk to the Springfield Paper team.
We’re happy to provide samples, answer questions, and help you make an informed decision – no pressure, just honest advice from people who know paper inside out!