First and foremost, think about the sizes of paper you will need to fold. Paper folding machines come in a range of sizes, so you should have no problem finding one to fit the size of documents you will be folding most.
Secondly, consider the type of fold you would like your paper folding machine to make. Tri-folds, half-folds, and a-z folds are very common, and you will not have a problem finding a good machine to make these folds for you. Some machines will also perform right angle folds, gate-folds and church-folds. If you need a paper folding machine that can do specialty and customized folds, do not purchase a low-end machine, as you probably will not be satisfied with its output.
For some businesses, one fold just isn't enough. If you need a machine that can make multiple folds, be sure you look into how manageable the process is for setting up the machine. Some equipment (especially the lower-priced folding machines) are difficult to change from one pattern to another. If you know you will be using a lot of different configurations, you should look into a machine that offers digital fold plate adjustment. If that is not an option, machines that have the fold plate set up at a ninety degree angle to the paper's path are easier to manage than other types requiring more adjustments and attention to detail during fold change and set up.
Another factor to think about is the thickness and type of paper you need to fold. The majority of cheaper paper folding machines (those retailing for under $5000) experience some problems when folding heavier weights of paper (like index stock or cardstock) unless it is pre-scored. Additionally, these lower end paper folders will also mishandle slick finish or glossy paper. You can forward a sample of your paper to have it tested on various machines to see which will provide the best fold for your paper weight and finish.
Simply put, people who know they will be folding a few hundred pieces of paper per month should not be looking at the same paper folding machines as those who will be folding a few thousand. Those who fold more paper need a better quality machine. Investing in the right product can mean the difference between productivity and frustration.
Try not to think cheap when it's time to invest in a paper folding machine. You should buy the best paper folder you can instead of trying to get away with something as inexpensive as possible. A quality paper folder (such as those manufactured by Formax, Intimus and MBM) can be an important investment in your business by saving you time, money, and headaches.
If you are in the market for a paper folding machine there are some very important things that you need to consider before you make your purchase. Considering these factors will help you to choose the correct paper folder for your application and will help you to ensure that you are fully satisfied with your paper folding experience. Here is a list of six things to consider when purchasing a new paper folder.
1. Paper Size: The first question that you need to ask yourself when choosing a paper folding machine is: what size of paper do I need to fold? Depending on your answer to this question your search for a paper folder may be narrowed somewhat. For instance if you need to fold 11? x 17? paper you wouldn't want to buy a folder that is only capable of folding letter sized documents.
2. Fold Type: The second question to ask yourself when choosing a paper folder is: What type of fold do I need to create. If you are looking for a simple tri fold, a half fold or a z-fold most folders will work for your needs. However, if you are looking to do a cross fold or a fold that is more complex you probably don't want to buy a lower end folder. You most likely won't be happy with the results.
3. Paper Stock: The third thing to consider when choosing a paper folding machine is the type of paper that you need to fold. Most lower end folders on the market (anything below $5000) will have a difficult time folding any type of cardstock or index stock that is not pre scored. Many of these folders will also have a difficult time with slick glossy paper stocks. If you plan on folding these types of materials you may want to consider sending in a sample to have tested before you purchase your folding machine (you should also look at the folders above $2000, you probably won't have a lot of luck with the smaller ones).
4. Variety of Folds: The fourth thing to consider when choosing a paper folding machine is the number of different folds that you will need to do. Many of the lower end paper folders are very difficult to set up and change fold patterns. If you are only going to need to do one type of fold it is not as essential that the paper folding machine be easy to set up and change folding patterns. However, if you work at a print shop and need to change folding patterns with every different job you should probably consider a paper folding machine with digital fold plate adjustments or at very least a paper folder with a fold plate that is fixed at 90 degrees to the paper path (some of the lower end folders such as the Dynafold Paper Folder models require you to square your fold plates during setup which can be difficult if you are constantly changing folding patterns).
5. Folding Volume: If you are going to need to fold hundreds of thousands of documents per month you are going to need a different type of folder than if you are going to fold 500 sheets per month. Most people with a paper folder will fall somewhere in between. Just remember to consider your volume when deciding what type of folder to buy. The more you are going to fold the better the folder that you are going to need.
6. Budget: If I could give you one piece of advice when choosing a paper folder, it would be to buy the best paper folding machine that you can afford. Most individuals tend to buy a paper folder that is less than adequate for their needs and are not satisfied with the results. If you can afford it consider an MBM or Formax paper folder. Both of these companies have simple to use designs and great reputations. Buying a paper folder is a little bit like buying a new car. Sometimes it is better to buy a better quality car up front to save you on hassles down the road.
Jeff Mcritchie has sinced written about articles on various topics from Binding Machines, Computers and The Internet and Shopping. Jeff McRitchie is the director of marketing for . He writes extensively on topics related to. Jeff Mcritchie's top article generates over 74000 views. to your Favourites.