Fair Pricing For Depot Repairs
May 6, 2014
Getting fair depot repair pricing for IT hardware can be a confusing business. Manufacturers will tell you that they’re the only ones qualified to fix their hardware and, sometimes, they’re correct. It’s not that they hire “Wonder-Techs” to fix your stuff. In fact, the trend these days is for manufacturers to outsource repairs to the cheapest bidder, often outside of the country. It’s just that sometimes, just sometimes, the manufacturer has access to proprietary parts that other companies cannot get. Normally though, there are good alternatives to the manufacturer’s high repair pricing, but still, care is needed.
So, here are some things that you need to look for in a third party repair company:
1. Some repair companies will charge a “troubleshooting” or “evaluation” fee. Avoid those companies! Reputable depot repair companies will be able to give you an upfront repair price or, at the very least, not charge you for evaluating equipment.
2. A “No fix, no fee” policy or similar offer. Not all equipment can be repaired, but if they cannot fix your hardware then you shouldn’t pay anything.
3. Look for a company that will complete a sample of your repairs at no cost. Obviously they cannot repair large batches of equipment for free, but you’re looking for a company that is willing to demonstrate, at no cost to you, their capability to repair your specific equipment.
4. Look for a good warranty. Many companies, including manufacturers, will only warranty repairs for 30 days. That’s not enough! Look for someone that will stand behind their work. Look for a six month warranty on all repairs.
Above all it’s about transparency and trust. No repair vendor is perfect – we all have our warts! – but look for a company that offers a clear repair policy, pricing and warranty.
