FAQs

Why should I purchase alternative printer cartridges instead of sticking to OEMs?

The only difference between Inky Shop alternative cartridges and OEM cartridges is the price. Compatible and remanufactured printer cartridges provide the same high quality as OEM, not to mention the environmental benefits of the remanufactured route. Our Inky Shop alternative cartridges consist of either recycled, refurbished or new components. We supply alternative ink and toner for every major brand – lower in price, high in quality. Here at The Inky Shop, we’re so confident in our quality we’ve endorsed them with a 100% money-back guarantee. To find out more, read here.

Will alternative cartridges void my printer warranty?

One of the most common myths surrounding alternative cartridges is that they will void your printer warranty. This is false. Consumers have the right to use any aftermarket product they choose. Common consumer law prevents manufacturers forcing consumers to buy only their products. They cannot legally void your warranty for using the consumable of your choice.

What should I do if my cartridge isn't printing as it should?

In the unlikely instance that your printer cartridge isn't working as it should, please try our troubleshooting tips found here.
Otherwise contact The Inky Shop - our team is here to help you get printing again as soon as possible.

Can I recycle my used cartridges?

At The Inky Shop we know the importance of reusing items to reduce waste, and are therefore committed to reusing and recycling printer cartridges as much as possible. We have 2 recycling initiatives, our inkjet refill service and our empty toner return promotion.
Refilling is recycling! Not all inkjet cartridges are able to be refilled, but many are. Not only will you be doing your bit for the environment, but you will benefit from great savings too. Contact us to discover if you can refill your inkjet cartridge.

By joining our loyalty program you will be rewarded for recycling/reusing with us. It's easy-peasy, simply provide our sales assistant with your email address or cell phone number and they will sign you up.
When you refill your inkjet cartridges we'll reward you with loyalty points, which can be redeemed for free refills after a certain amount of points are accumulated.

We are delighted to be running our toner recycling promotion again! Bring in your empty toner cartridge and receive R50 off the purchase of an Inky Shop alternative toner cartridge.

Please note that our recycling initiatives are in-store only.

Should I automatically install firmware updates?

A printers firmware controls many of its functions, one of them being the recognition of original (OEM) versus alternative cartridge chips. Printer manufacturers, in an effort to curb the use of 3rd party cartridges, are continually updating their printer firmware to prevent the printer from accepting alternative cartridges and thereby prescribe the exclusive use of expensive OEM cartridges.

You will be encouraged to set your printer to download and install firmware updates automatically. Should you wish to use the after-market consumables of your choice, such as The Inky Shop’s high quality and affordable alternative cartridges, then it’s probably best to disallow automatic firmware updates.
Rather do these manually when you are sure that the upgrade will, in fact, improve your printers current performance. Read more

How long will it take for my online order to get to me?

Orders that are placed before 12 noon on a business day, will be fulfilled and collected by our reputable courier on the same day from our warehouse in Hilton, KwaZulu Natal.
An order that is placed after 12 noon, will be fulfilled and shipped the next business day.
For special orders, our sales team will advise lead times, as this will depend on our suppliers.
Our standard shipping rate is approximately R59 for most cartridge orders. Delivery will be free on orders of R450 and over.

Delivery Lead Times From Dispatch
Main Centers Johannesburg & Durban: Delivery in 1-2 business days
Main Center Cape Town: Delivery in 2-3 business days
Regional Areas: Delivery in 3-4 business days
Outlying Areas: Up to 7 days

N.B. A business day is Monday - Friday, excluding public holidays.