» Before the purchase
» After the purchase
» Knowing the signs
Some HP customers who have fallen victim to fraud, believed they were buying HP-branded products under the impression that they were buying directly from HP. Arm yourself with the right information to ensure that you are getting only genuine HP products.
Before the purchase
Be specific
Be specific during the bid process to ensure that ambiguous statements do not mislead you into thinking you are buying original HP cartridges.
Examples of potentially misleading contract language:
Print cartridge for HP LaserJet 4000 or HP C4127A print cartridge or equivalent.
This language allows the vendor to fill the order with any compatible cartridges for this printer, including genuine HP and remanufactured cartridges. Vague language like this makes it difficult for you to compare price and value. It also allows the vendor to define the term "equivalent" to his own advantage.
Recommended Contract Language:
HP C4127A print cartridge for HP LaserJet 4000. Be specific about which cartridge you want in order to avoid misunderstandings with vendors.
Add conditions
Add conditions to the contract to safeguard your order. Use conditional lines such as "No substitutions without written consent" or "Vendor certifies that product is authentic. Any product found to be counterfeit will be brought to the attention of authorities and will be subject to confiscation and non-payment."
Demand for a warranty
Insist on information that will allow you to answer these questions:
- What is the warranty on the product being offered?
- What is the warranty return process?
- How does the manufacturer address service or repair required as a result of using the cartridge in another manufacturer's printer?
- Is the cartridge clearly labelled to identify the manufacturer or remanufacturer?
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After the purchase
Beware of the after-selection tricks
A tactic used after you have selected a vendor to become the official supplier is to offer an "equivalent product at a lower price". The questions you should ask in response are:
- Why was it not offered when the bid process was still open and;
- What would other bidders have offered as an "equivalent" product?
Don't take anything at face value
If a vendor indicates that a substitution is required because of a shortage from the specified manufacturer, contact the manufacturer directly to confirm this.
Knowing the signs
Be aware when:
- The security label on the packaging is missing or is without the colour shifting feature
- Better prices are offered than those by recognised HP distributors
- Limited availability of part numbers
- The purchase demands cash-on-delivery
- You hear stories of fire sales, auctions, rejects etc
- The products have been repackaged
- The product has NO HP logo
- The product comes with a questionable price
- The product has NO usual outer wrappings, subpacks or pallets
- You encounter frequent cartridge failure and poor print quality
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