The Definitive Shredding Service Guide
When you first contact a shredding company, they will ask logistical questions to determine the scope of work.
Q: How do I calculate the volume of paper I have?
Most services measure by the “Standard Archive Box” (approx. 15″ x 12″ x 10″). If you don’t have boxes, one vertical file drawer equals roughly two boxes. Knowing your box count ensures an accurate quote and the right-sized truck.
Q: Is there a minimum charge for a small amount of shredding?
Yes, most mobile shredding services have a minimum fee (often covering the first 10 boxes) to account for the cost of dispatching a high-tech shredding truck to your location. For very small amounts, a “drop-off” service is more cost-effective.
Q: Can the shredding truck park in a standard driveway or loading dock?
Shredding trucks are large (similar to a medium-sized garbage truck). They require about 10-12 feet of overhead clearance and a flat surface. If you have height restrictions or narrow alleys, inform the provider early.
Security & Compliance
This is where you vet the provider to ensure they won’t leave you liable for a data breach.
Q: What is a Certificate of Destruction, and why is it mandatory?
A Certificate of Destruction is a formal document issued after the shredding is complete. It records the date, location, and method of destruction. In the event of an audit or legal inquiry, this is your proof that you complied with privacy regulations like HIPAA, FACTA, or GDPR.
Q: What does "NAID AAA Certification" actually mean for me?
The National Association for Information Destruction (NAID) conducts unannounced audits of certified companies. This ensures they perform background checks on employees, maintain secure chain-of-custody, and use shredders that meet specific particle-size requirements.
Q: Is "On-Site" really safer than "Off-Site" shredding?
On-site is the “gold standard” because the chain of custody ends the moment the paper hits the truck at your curb. Off-site is secure, but involves an extra step (transportation) before destruction. If you handle highly sensitive intellectual property, choose on-site.
Material & Preparation
Modern industrial shredders are powerful, but they aren’t indestructible.
Q: Do I need to sort my paper or remove bindings?
You do not need to remove staples, paperclips, or rubber bands. However, you must remove 3-ring binders, heavy plastic “hidden” folders, and large metal “bulldog” clips. These materials can contaminate the paper recycling stream.
Q: Can you shred wet or moldy documents?
Generally, no. Most shredders cannot process wet paper because it clogs the blades, and recycling facilities will reject moldy paper due to health risks and contamination. If your documents are damaged, you may need a specialized “incineration” service instead.
Q: What happens to the "confetti" after it's shredded?
To close the loop on sustainability, shredded paper is typically baled and sent to a paper mill. There, it is pulped and turned into low-grade paper products like paper towels, napkins, or cardboard.
