Frequently Asked Questions

video digitizing

  • What do you charge for tape transfers?

    • Our pricing is $25/tape or $18.75/tape (25% off) for 6 or more. Minimum order is $40. Orders less than $40 receive a minimum order charge. For Specialty format pricing, see the Supported Media section on the pricing page.

  • What is included in the standard service?

    • Our standard service includes digitizing your videotapes to a digital video file. After digitizing, we quality check the video files and then create your cloud access folder. Each tape is its own file and you can download them to your phone and computer. All tape labels are typed into a video index file you can easily reference.

  • What if I want my videos on DVDs or flash drives?

  • What if some of my tapes are blank or just random TV shows?

    • You’re only charged $9/tape for any tapes not transferred. It is not our intention to profit from this charge, but our team spends time with each tape to digitize it and check for home videos.

  • What if some tapes might be duplicates?

    • We transfer any tapes that come in and we aren’t able to check for duplicates. It takes the same amount of time and labor to check for duplicates as it does when we fully digitize it.

  • Can you copy my videos to a flash drive I already own?

    • We cannot. We can only copy data to Save Your Tapes provided flash drives. Our most popular 16GB flash drive ($19) can store up to 10 tapes.

  • I’m not sure where to begin or how much this is going to cost. Can you give me an estimate?

  • Some of my tapes might be damaged. Do you repair them?

    • We can repair VHS and VHS-C tapes only. Repairs are $20.

  • What tapes can you transfer?

    • We can transfer VHS, S-VHS, VHS-C, Hi8/Digital8/Video8, Mini-DV, HDV Mini-DV, 8mm/Super8 film reels 3” up to 9” (video only/no audio), audio cassettes, microcassettes, and Betamax/Betacam SP (short and long), and DVCAM. We also support other media like DVDs, CDs, mini-DVDs, SD cards, micro SD cards, Blu-ray, floppy disks, and zip disks.

  • What tapes can you NOT transfer?

    • We are unable to transfer PAL format tapes, DVC tapes, 35mm film, 16mm reels, and audio reels.

  • What kind of quality can I expect from my tapes?

Cloud access 

  • How long are my videos stored in the cloud?

    • We store your videos in the cloud for 90 days. For extra peace of mind, we can keep backup copies forever for $59/year. Cancel anytime.

  • What do I do with the cloud access? 

    • The cloud access allows you to view and download your videos on your computer and phone. You’re given a download link and password with your completed order that you can use to access your videos and share with friends or family. 

  • How secure is the cloud?

    • Our cloud service is provided by Dropbox. Your videos are password-protected and secured using 256bit bank-grade encryption. 

  • Do I need a Dropbox account to download my videos?

    • No account is needed to download your videos.

  • What if I don’t want to put my videos on the cloud?

    • No problem. Just check the box for “Don’t transfer my videos/photos to the cloud” on your order form. You can then choose a flash drive or DVD for an additional charge. 

Location

  • Where are you located?

    • Visit our retail partner Pak Mail in North Austin to drop off your tapes or pick up your completed order. We even offer home pickup, so you don’t even have to leave your home.

  • What is Pak Mail?

    • Pak Mail is a local shipping and mailbox business that provides fulfillment services for other businesses, like Save Your Tapes. Our staff picks up all orders in person and your videos are never sent to us through the mail.

  • Do I need to pay when I drop off my videos?

    • You don’t need to pay at drop off. After we pick up your order, payment is due within 48 hours can be paid online with Apple Pay or a credit or debit card. Checks and cash are not accepted as order must be paid online.

  • I don't live in Austin, TX. Can I mail in my tapes?

    • Yes. Before mailing your tapes, place your order online first. Don’t mail anything to us without placing your order.

Miscellaneous

  • Do I get my tapes back once my order is complete?

    • Absolutely. We always return all of your original tapes after they are transferred.

  • How long does it take?

    • Our average turn around is 5-7 days but varies depending on current volume and how many tapes you bring in. If you need your order completed by a set date, please reach out to us regarding Rush status. Rush service usually costs $35-$100 extra depending on how many tapes you have and when you need it by.

  • Why choose you over the bigger companies?

    • We’re local, quick, and friendly. We set the bar high for quality and tape safety and treat your memories like our own. You get to drop off in person and your tapes are usually ready in days, not weeks.

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