Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing remotely located document-producing machines by using cellular technology. One embodiment of the invention is an apparatus that includes a central computer, a central cellular radio station, and a number of remote document-producing nodes. The central computer generates a copier management command directed towards a selected one of the remote document-producing nodes, and supplies this command to the central cellular radio station. This radio station then uses a central cellular radio to relay the copier management command to the selected remote copier node. Alternatively, in another embodiment of the invention, a remote document-producing node initiates a remote management operation by transmitting management data to the central cellular station.