Overage Charges
Additional per-page fees charged when monthly print volume exceeds the base volume specified in a service contract.
Detailed Explanation
Overage charges apply when you print more pages than your contract's base volume. For example, with a 5,000-page base volume, printing 7,000 pages means 2,000 overage pages. Overage rates are typically the same as base click charges, though some contracts charge premium rates for overages to discourage exceeding limits. Understanding overage charges helps avoid surprise costs during high-volume months. Smart businesses estimate print volume conservatively, choosing base volumes slightly below typical usage to avoid paying for unused pages, while accepting occasional overages. Some contracts offer tiered pricing where per-page costs decrease at higher volumes. Always ask: (1) Are overage rates the same as base rates? (2) Is there a maximum overage limit? (3) Can you adjust base volume mid-contract? (4) Are seasonal volume fluctuations accommodated? Tracking monthly volume helps predict and manage overage costs effectively.
Examples
- Base volume: 5,000 pages
- Actual usage: 7,000 pages
- Overage: 2,000 pages
- Overage cost: 2,000 × $0.008 = $16
Related Terms
Base Volume
The minimum number of pages per month included in a copier service contract, regardless of actual usage.
Click Charge / Cost Per Click
A per-page fee charged in service contracts covering toner, maintenance, and support.
Cost Per Page (CPP)
The total cost to print a single page, including toner, maintenance, and other consumables.
Quick Info
Category
Cost
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