EXHIBIT 23(a)

                       [LETTERHEAD OF COOPERS & LYBRAND]

                      CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in this registration statement of
Corporate Express, Inc. on Form S-8 (the "Registration Statement") of our report
dated June 11, 1996 on our audits of the consolidated financial statements and
financial statement schedule of Corporate Express, Inc. as of March 2, 1996 and
February 25, 1995, and for the years ended March 2, 1996, February 25, 1995, and
February 28, 1994 and to the incorporation by reference in this Registration
Statement of our report dated August 30, 1996 on our audit of the balance sheet
of Check Office Equipment Company as of February 29, 1996, and the related
statements of operations, stockholders' equity (parent company investment), and
cash flows for the year then ended.

/s/ Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P.

Denver, Colorado
November 14, 1996