Data loss can happen unexpectedly, no matter what data storage device you are using. Fortunately, there are methods and tools to recover most data loss scenarios. While the cost of data recovery services may seem high, the cost of downtime for a business can surpass it in a matter of hours. Professional data recovery for a single hard drive can cost anywhere from $300 to well over $3.000. Meanwhile, studies reveal that the average downtime cost for small companies ranges from $137 to $427 per minute, whereas for larger businesses, the downtime can cost over $16,000 per minute. 

The final quote for a data recovery service is determined by the type of device, type of damage, severity, and turnaround time selected (emergency services, for example, request an upfront payment for its immediate response). However, it’s important to note that different data recovery service providers have different criteria for determining their own pricing. In this article, we’ll go over the different ways that data recovery cost is calculated and how you can choose the best data recovery service provider.

Why is data recovery so expensive?

From accidentally deleted files in a USB flash drive to ransomware-encrypted databases in cloud servers - data recovery professionals have the experience, tools, and knowledge to restore the data back safely while complying with data privacy and security regulations.

Considering all the types of technology that exists to store data in multiple file formats, data recovery experts can quickly diagnose the problem, create a list of recoverable data, and restore them from devices such as:

• Hard disk drives (HDDs)
• Solid-state drives (SSDs)
• External hard drives
• Memory cards
• USB flash drives
• Digital cameras, CCTV, and camcorders
• Smartphones and tablets
• Laptops and personal computers

The hourly rate of these professionals, their equipment, and (most importantly) the successful recovery of your data are the main factors that affect the data recovery price. Like SalvageData, most reputable data recovery providers will have a No Data, No Charge policy. This is not an industry-wide policy, so always check your device before sending it to a business.

What determines the total cost of data recovery

Professional data recovery services offer comprehensive solutions for all types of data loss scenarios, including those that software cannot handle. They also provide customer support and ensure data privacy during the recovery process.

Pro tip: When you realize that files are missing, stop using your device. This will help prevent data from being overwritten, which is impossible to recover.

So, how can you calculate how much your data recovery will cost? Here are a few factors:

Type of device

Different devices have different architectures and storage technologies. For instance, recovering data from a solid-state drive (SSD) can be more complex than a traditional hard disk drive (HDD), potentially increasing costs. Some manufacturers also request that the service provider be certified to work with their devices, and it can mean losing your warranty if you go to a non-authorized provider.

Severity of damage

The severity of the damage will also affect how much it costs to recover data. A minor issue might be resolved with a few simple steps, while more severe problems may require advanced techniques and tools. The time needed to resolve the issue can also add to the cost.

Fire, water, and dropped demand different approaches. And it’s even more distinct from logical issues, ransomware, and other errors. Each damage requires tools and services specifics for their own, impacting the final price.

Type of file

Certain file types may require specific recovery techniques or software, potentially raising the cost. Encrypted files, for example, are often more difficult to restore.

Type of failure

This is where a professional diagnosis comes into play and allows experts to determine if the issue is a logical failure or mechanical failure.

Logical failures, such as software errors or accidental deletion, are generally cheaper to resolve than mechanical failures. Mechanical failures involving physical damage to a device often require more specialized equipment, expertise, and turnaround time.

Cleanroom

If a device has suffered physical damage, it may need to be disassembled in a class 100 ISO 5 certified cleanroom to prevent further harm from dust or other particles. Maintaining these sterile environments is costly, which can add to the overall cost of data recovery.

Turnaround time

If you need data recovered quickly, you may be required to pay a premium for expedited service. Service providers usually offer multiple service options for you to choose from, including a 24/7 year-round emergency option.

Onsite or remote data recovery

This is more common for enterprises when sending the storage device to a professional data recovery laboratory is impractical. 

Onsite recovery, where a professional comes to your location, can be more expensive due to travel and convenience factors. In contrast, remote recovery services, performed over the internet, are typically less costly but may not be suitable for all types of data loss scenarios.

Different costs for data recovery

There are three main pricing methods you’ll find when searching for a data recovery solution:

Free data recovery

Yes, data recovery can be free - if it's free-to-use software. SalvageData offers free data recovery software that can be installed on Windows or Mac devices to restore deleted files. Other data recovery software providers commonly have a tiered pricing structure, where the price to use the software increases depending on how much data you want to recover. 

However, it’s important to remember that data recovery software only works for logical errors, such as accidental deletion. If you notice any sign of physical damage to your device (water/liquid damage, clicking sounds, etc.), call a data recovery advisor immediately.

Flat rate data recovery

The flat rate is typically advertised as super low-cost. Still, it has drawbacks, mainly because it’s impossible to accurately diagnose a storage device without access.

Some professionals will keep their word on the flat rate and (especially if the solution is simple and not time-consuming) will not charge any additional fees. However, since the company cannot diagnose the issue, it can’t predict the labor costs of fixing more complex data loss scenarios. This way, the prices often can increase what traditional recovery providers charge by adding on extra fees, such as:

• Second attempt, second opinion, or open drive fee. Providers charge this when the media has already been at another lab or service provider.
• Part fee. Service providers charge for mechanical, electromechanical, or other cases that require a part. These fees add up, often requiring multiple parts, and can range up to $500 per part.
• Attempt fee. Providers charge an attempt fee for what they can on complex cases. Attempt fees can be up to $1000 and are non-refundable.
• Uncommon fee. Providers charge for non-common file systems, interfaces, size factors, files to recover, etc. 
• Transfer media fee. Transferring the data after the recovery service is complete is a standard fee.

Custom quote for data recovery

Getting a custom quote means that you’ll only pay for what combination of parts, resources, and time were necessary to retrieve your data. This is when a company will first receive and diagnose the issue before sending a detailed quote for the services.

Some providers do charge for this evaluation, especially if you request that the evaluation process start ASAP for an emergency data recovery. However, it’s more common for you to receive a free evaluation and quote before the data is restored. SalvageData also sends a list of recoverable data for final approval before sending the invoice. Contact our data recovery team and request a quote!