Understanding your cost per page (CPP) is one of the simplest ways to get control over your office printing expenses. CPP tells you exactly how much it costs every time you print a single sheet of paper — including toner, paper, and (optionally) maintenance.
This guide walks you through the formula, explains each component, and gives you examples you can use right away.
What is Cost Per Page?
Cost per page (CPP) is the total cost of printing one page on your device.
It helps you:
The CPP Formula
The standard formula used across the printing industry is:
If you want a more complete picture, you can optionally include maintenance parts or service costs.
1. Toner Cost Per Page
This is the biggest part of CPP.
Example:
A $120 toner cartridge rated for 6,000 pages → $120 ÷ 6,000 = $0.02 per page
Tip: Page yield is based on 5% coverage (a normal text page). Heavy graphics increase real‑world CPP.
2. Paper Cost Per Page
Example:
$8 per 500‑sheet pack → $8 ÷ 500 = $0.016 per page
Optional: maintenance or Consumable Parts
Some printers have separate drums, fusers, or maintenance kits:
Example:
A drum costing $120 with a 20,000‑page life → $120 ÷ 20,000 = $0.006 per page
This is optional, but it does help with long term calculations
Including Service Contracts in you CPP Calculation
Many businesses prefer a predictable, all‑in approach to printing costs. Bridgeport offers service contracts that bundle the major printing expenses into one straightforward rate — including toner, maintenance consumables, and all service and labour.
Because we take care of everything covered under your agreement, calculating your cost per page becomes simple:
This gives you a clear, consistent CPP without tracking individual supplies or maintenance items. Paper and any non‑covered items are separate, but your printing costs remain easy to understand and budget for.
4. Full Example Calculaiton
Using the examples above:
Total CPP:
If you’re on a service contract, your CPP is simply your monthly rate divided by your monthly print volume — no tracking required.
Why CPP Matters
Knowing your CPP helps you:
CPP is one of the simplest tools for controlling office printing costs - and one of the most overlooked.
Want Help Calculating Your CPP?
Bridgeport can help you determine your real‑world CPP based on your actual print volume, toner usage, and device model.