Is Overhead Projector Hire The Best Choice?
When you have need of an overhead projector, you must
determine whether purchasing the equipment is the best option, or if an
overhead projector hire is the best option. There are advantages and
disadvantages to both options, and what is best for one company may not be what
is best for another. Let’s take a look at some basic information.
- How
often will you use the equipment? If you will only be using the equipment
once or twice a year, it really doesn’t make sense to own it outright. You
will almost always fare better if you rent the equipment when it is
needed. However, if you will be using this type of equipment often, it
makes more sense to own it. At the same time, however, you may fare better
with a long term lease instead of an outright purchase.
- What
is the cost of the overhead projector hire as compared to an outright
purchase? The cost of the equipment is usually a determining factor. If
the equipment costs more than your budget allows for an outright purchase,
you will of course do better to lease the equipment, even if it is a long
term lease. Make sure that you are aware of taxes, deposits, insurance
costs, and other fees that may apply as well, so that you know the true
cost of the equipment rental.
- What
about maintenance, service, and replacement of the equipment? Maintaining,
servicing, and replacing equipment as needed can be very expensive, and
this will be your responsibility if you own the equipment. However, when
you lease the equipment, these things are typically the responsibility of
the rental company, which will save you a great deal of money, and a great
deal of trouble.
- Is
the overhead projector hire new? If the rental is short term, it may not
matter how old the equipment is. However, in the case of a long term
rental, you will want to make sure that you are starting out with brand
new equipment. If saving money is important, you might also settle for
leasing older equipment, if it is in good condition, as long as the
equipment will be replaced when a replacement is needed.
- Is
Rent-to-Own an option? Although you typically end up paying twice what the
equipment is worth with a rent-to-own option, for many businesses, this is
what is needed to eventually own the equipment outright. If you are not
interested in owning the equipment, however, you will want to avoid the
rent-to-own option, as a straight rental usually costs less.
If you consider the above questions, you can usually
determine what will be best for you in terms of an overhead projector hire.
Again, consider both options carefully before making your final decision, and
make sure that you talk with an equipment sales representative at the rental
company that you have selected as well. They may be able to give you more detailed
information concerning the equipment, the costs, and the agreement for the audio visual hire, to help you
make a more informed decision.