People often pay for document scanning at Staples to convert paper files to digital formats. The main cost drivers are the number of pages, color versus black-and-white, and optional file delivery methods. This guide outlines typical price ranges in USD, plus practical tips to manage your budget.
Assumptions: region, page count, color/bw, and delivery method vary prices; see Real-World Pricing Examples for scenarios.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per-Page Scan (Black & White) | $0.10 | $0.15 | $0.25 | Lower end for simple B&W scans |
| Per-Page Scan (Color) | $0.50 | $0.75 | $1.50 | Color pages costlier; may vary by volume |
| Flat Double-Sided Scan (Both Sides) | $0.15 | $0.25 | $0.40 | Often charged per side or per page |
| Digital File Delivery (Email/Link) | $0.00 | $2.00 | $5.00 | Some locations include in-page rate; others charge per file |
| USB Drive Copy | $5.00 | $10.00 | $20.00 | Physical media option |
| Scanning In-Lstore Support Fee | $0.00 | $5.00 | $15.00 | Minimum service charge if available |
Overview Of Costs
Prices for Staples document scanning typically range from a few cents per page to several dollars per page, depending on color, duplexing, and the delivery method. For a standard black-and-white job of 100 pages, expect around $10–$15 in typical scenarios. If color is required, that cost can rise to $40–$75 for a 100-page batch, and delivery formats add modest additional fees. Per-unit pricing is common, with lower rates for higher volumes and bundled services.
Cost Breakdown
Understanding where the money goes helps buyers estimate total costs before visiting.
| Column | Details | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Paper used during scanning; not a major driver unless specialty stock is requested | $0–$2 |
| Labor | Staff time to run scanners, sort documents, and deliver files | $5–$15 per job |
| Equipment | Scanner maintenance and depreciation; shared facility cost | $0–$5 |
| Permits | Not typically applicable for standard scanning | $0 |
| Delivery/Disposal | Electronic delivery or USB media; optional disposal of originals | $0–$5 |
| Warranty | Limited service assurance; often included | $0 |
| Overhead | Store operating costs allocated to services | $0–$2 |
| Contingency | Unforeseen handling or format requests | $0–$3 |
| Taxes | Sales tax varies by state | Varies |
What Drives Price
Key cost drivers include page count, color versus black-and-white, and the delivery method chosen. Volume discounts can apply at higher page counts or bundled services. Color scans typically cost 3–10 times more per page than black-and-white, and duplex scanning may incur modest premiums if charged per side. The method of receiving digital files (email, cloud link, or USB) also affects the total.
Pricing Variables
Regional differences influence Staples scanning pricing; urban centers often price higher than suburban or rural locations. Job characteristics such as confidential handling or special formats (e.g., TIFF, PDF/A) can adjust both per-page rates and delivery fees. A typical range for a mixed-color job is $0.25–$1.00 per page depending on settings and store policy.
Ways To Save
Implement cost controls by batching documents, choosing black-and-white scans, and selecting cost-efficient delivery. Consider scanning only what’s necessary, using a local pickup option when convenient, and consolidating multiple documents into a single file to reduce delivery charges. If the job is large, request a bulk rate or a regional quote when possible.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary across regions; three representative markets illustrate differences.
- Urban Northeast: higher per-page color rates, but potential bulk discounts for large jobs.
- Suburban Midwest: balanced pricing with moderate delivery fees and occasional bundles.
- Rural South: generally lower base rates and fewer add-on charges, but limited same-day delivery options.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards help illustrate typical outcomes under common conditions.
Basic
Specs: 50 pages, black-and-white, delivered via email, standard resolution. Labor hours: 0.5. Per-unit: $0.10/page. Total: about $5–$8.
Assumptions: region, basic bw, digital delivery.
Mid-Range
Specs: 150 pages, mixed black-and-white and color, USB delivery. Labor hours: 1.5. Per-unit: $0.15/page bw, $0.75/page color. Total: $40–$70.
Assumptions: moderate color mix, drive delivery.
Premium
Specs: 300 pages, mostly color, high-resolution PDF, secure delivery to cloud or encrypted link. Labor hours: 3.0. Per-unit: $0.75–$1.50 color, $0.15 bw. Total: $180–$320.
Assumptions: color-heavy, advanced file formats, and enhanced security.
What To Ask When Booking
Clarify per-page rates by color and side, delivery method fees, and any minimum charges. Inquire about volume discounts for large jobs and whether a single invoice can cover multiple document sets. Request a written estimate before proceeding to avoid surprises at checkout.