Color copies at Staples remain a popular choice for businesses and households that need professional results without a big investment. Whether you are printing marketing materials, reports, or event flyers, understanding what you pay and what you get helps you avoid surprise fees.
This guide breaks down the main cost drivers, quality options, and time considerations for color copying at Staples so you can choose the setup that fits your needs and budget.
| Service Type | Typical Page Cost | Turnaround Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Matte Copies | $0.15–$0.30 per page | Immediate, in-store | Everyday internal documents |
| Premium Glossy Prints | $0.50–$1.50 per page | 1–2 hours or pickup later | Marketing collateral and photos |
| Large Format Color | $2.00–$5.00 per square foot | 1–3 business days | Posters, banners, trade show displays |
| Staples Print & Ship Services | Varies by product and volume | 2–5 business days | Remote orders and bulk fulfillment |
Color Copy Pricing at Staples Store
In-Store Copying Rates and Paper Options
When you walk into a Staples location, color copies are usually available at self-serve machines or via the customer service desk. Per-page prices vary by store region and paper choice, with standard matte copiestypically at the lowest price point. Upgrading to thicker, premium paper or glossy finishes adds to the cost per copy.
Membership Discounts and Promo Codes
Staples Rewards members and corporate account holders can unlock lower per-page rates and periodic promo codes that reduce the overall cost of color copies. These discounts are most valuable for larger batches, such as multi hundred-page reports or marketing materials that you need on a recurring basis.
Price Variance by Location and Paper Weight
Urban stores with higher operating expenses may price color copies slightly higher than suburban locations, and paper weight can noticeably affect the final price per page. Knowing your store's baseline rates and timing your orders with sales events helps you lower the total spend on color copying.
Print Quality Choices for Color Copies
Matte vs Glossy and Weight Options
Choosing between matte and glossy finishes changes not only the look of your color copies but also the price per sheet. Heavier paper stocks feel more professional, yet they also increase the cost per page and may require adjusted settings on staplers, folders, or printers.
Color Accuracy for Brand Materials
For brand-critical projects, Staples offers color-managed printing and proofing options to reduce mismatches between digital designs and physical output. While this may raise the price slightly, it protects you from expensive reprints due to color errors on client-facing materials.
Turnaround Time and Staples Same Day Service
Standard color copies are ready immediately at the store, while premium orders, large format prints, or Print & Ship requests take additional hours or days. Staples Same Day service, when available, lets you place an order early in the day and pick it up before closing, often at a moderate premium over basic copying.
Large Format and Bulk Color Copying
Posters, Banners, and Trade Show Prints
Large format color copying at Staples covers posters, banners, and exhibit graphics, priced by square foot rather than by page. These products are produced on wide-format printers and typically require a longer lead time, yet they deliver high-impact visuals for events and retail spaces.
Volume Pricing for Corporate and Academic Orders
Organizations and educational institutions often qualify for volume pricing on bulk color copies, which significantly reduces the cost per page. Combining volume discounts with scheduled Print & Ship orders simplifies budgeting and ensures that large projects stay on timeline.
File Preparation and File Submission Tips
Submitting high-resolution files with proper color profiles, bleeds, and safety margins reduces the risk of reprints and unexpected charges. Using Staples design tools or file validation checks before submission helps you catch resolution or layout issues before your order reaches production.
Optimize Your Color Copy Workflow at Staples
- Compare standard matte versus premium glossy pricing before placing your order
- Enroll in Staples Rewards or corporate accounts to access lower per-page rates
- Time larger orders with weekly ads and promo codes to maximize savings
- Use file validation tools to avoid reprints due to resolution or layout issues
- Consider Print & Ship for bulk or remote orders to simplify fulfillment
- Choose standard pickup times for immediate needs and same day service when urgent
FAQ
Reader questions
Do self-serve copiers at Staples charge the same as counter service for color copies?
Prices are generally aligned between self-serve copiers and counter service, but promotional member rates and store-specific offers can create small differences. Selecting premium paper or specialty finishes usually adds to the cost regardless of how you place the order.
How much extra does it cost to get color copies with heavier paper at Staples?
Upgrading to heavier, premium paper typically adds a few cents to the per-page price compared to standard copier paper. The exact increase depends on the store and the exact product, but the difference is often modest relative to the enhanced look and feel.
Can I combine color copies with other print services at Staples to save on a single order?
Yes, you can combine color copies with black and white printing, lamination, or binding in one order, and some bundled pricing or member discounts may apply. Keeping related services within the same submission can simplify pickup and sometimes reduce total handling fees.
Do Staples Prices for Color Copies Change During Holiday Seasons or Back to School Periods?
Pricing and promotions can shift during high-demand periods, with back-to-school, holiday, and year-end campaigns often introducing extra discounts or bundle offers. Monitoring weekly ads and Staples digital coupons helps you lock in lower rates for larger copy runs.