TCO is a Nordic oilfield service company providing innovative solutions for the global energy sector. With operations spanning multiple markets, the company develops and delivers technologies that improve well integrity, efficiency, and safety.

In this customer story, we spoke with Anja Bauman, the company’s European Patent Attorney, who manages TCO’s diverse IP portfolio across Europe and the U.S. As the sole person responsible for all IP matters, including patent annuities.

Manual processes, hidden fees, and constant worry

Before, TCO’s annuity management was fragmented and stressful. Multiple agents were involved, creating extra layers of complexity and potential risks. Payments were handled through different channels, often with hidden fees and unclear timelines, while long communication chains made it difficult to track what was happening.

This setup led to several challenges:

  • Hidden costs and unclear fees: Multiple intermediaries added their own fees, making it difficult to see the true renewal cost.
  • Administrative complexity: Deadlines were tracked manually in spreadsheets, creating extra work and room for error.
  • Transparency issues: It wasn’t always clear when or how renewals were processed, forcing constant double-checking.
  • Billing delays: Internal payment workflows occasionally stalled, risking missed deadlines.

“I never felt fully in control. There were too many middle agents, too many places where something could go wrong, and I was always worried I’d missed something. I had to double- and triple-check everything.”

Choosing a modern, transparent IP renewal partner

After a thorough search and recommendations from peers, they shortlisted three providers. The final decision came down to trust, transparency, and ease of use. They wanted a modern, online platform that didn’t rely on endless emails, a platform where they could instantly see deadlines, costs, and case status.

Another key factor was pricing clarity. In their research, many providers offered attractive quotes but hid extra fees in exchange rates or unclear service categories. 

PatentRenewal.com stood out by offering upfront and fully transparent pricing. Every cost category was clearly explained from the start, with no hidden surprises.

Key reasons for choosing PatentRenewal.com:

  • An easy-to-use platform that fits daily workflows
  • Pricing that stays predictable
  • Trustworthy, responsive support
  • To feel like a valued customer, not just a number

“From the very first conversation, you were upfront about costs and fees - no hidden charges, no surprises. I could see exactly what we’d pay and when. That made a huge difference.”

Centralized patent renewals with clear savings

Switching to PatentRenewal.com transformed TCO’s IP renewal management. They now enjoy a centralized, reliable, and stress-free process with clear financial oversight and far less administrative effort.

Key results include:

  • Around 20–30% direct cost savings on annuities compared to previous providers
“We pay significantly less for annuities than before - probably around 20–30% savings.”
  • Time savings and reduced stress for the sole IP manager
“I spend so much less time now - and I don’t worry anymore. I know it’s done correctly.”
  • One consolidated monthly bill, simplifying internal billing and approvals
“Our billing team only processes one invoice per month now. Budgeting and forecasting are so much easier.”
  • Improved visibility and control, with deadlines, costs, and documents easily accessible
“Everything is in one place. I don’t have to dig through emails or spreadsheets anymore. I can instantly see what’s active, what’s due, and all the supporting documents.”
  • Better decision-making, with clear cost breakdowns for each case and country
“It’s much easier now to decide if we want to continue or discontinue a case, because all the information is right there.”

With PatentRenewal.com’s transparency and automation, the constant worry about errors or missed payments is gone.

“It’s a complete win. Less cost, less admin work, and zero stress. I feel like we finally have full control, and I completely trust that nothing will be missed. My only regret is not switching sooner.”

A smooth and efficient IP renewal process for TCO

By adopting PatentRenewal.com, TCO gained clarity, control, and measurable cost savings in their IP renewal process.

“PatentRenewal.com has been completely ideal for us - reliable, transparent, and easy to work with. I recommend it to anyone, especially smaller companies that can’t afford to waste time and resources.”

If you’d like to see how your company can save time, reduce costs, and gain full visibility into your IP renewals, start by requesting a free price comparison or booking a quick meeting with our team.