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Shredders Your Guide to Choosing the Right Shredder Use the questions and answers below to help identify what type of shredder you need. Who are you buying the shredder for? Yourself or another individual user—consider a personal shredder. Co-workers, or a small group of users—consider a personal or general office model. A department or larger group of users—shop for a general office machine. How often will the shredder be used? Use Personal Shredders General Office Shredders Occasional - Light Up to 20 uses per day 1 user 2,000-6,000 sheets/day Up to 5 users Moderate - Medium Up to 50 uses per day 1 user 3,500-14,000 sheets/day 6-10 users Heavy/Continuous - Heavy Up to 100 uses per day 1-3 users 5,000-36,000 sheets/day 10 or more users What do you need to shred? Some shredders can handle a variety of materials including staples, paper clips, credit cards, CDs and DVDs. These features are available in many models. What level of security (determined by the cut style) will you need? Strip Cut Shreds paper into 7/32" to 1/4" strips Confetti Cut / Cross Cut Cuts paper into small, confetti-size bits Higher-level security as the pieces are very difficult to reassemble Reduces waste bulk for easier disposal High Security Cut Cuts into the smallest pieces Highest level of security for the most sensitive documents Best level of bulk waste reduction Has been evaluated by NSA and meets the requirements of NSA and CSS specifications 02-01 for high security cross cut paper shredders Additional Considerations Reliability and Durability Don't underestimate your needs—most first time buyers shred at least twice as much as they originally expect, so you'll want a machine that gets the job done time after time A shredder should run efficiently with a consistent speed (less powerful machines can slow down when fed more sheets) Better quality shredders will be well-constructed with top-grade materials Powerful machines will operate smoothly and consistently and should not jam when handling any quantity up to the stated sheet capacity With proper use and maintenance, especially consistent oiling, a shredder should run trouble-free for several years As a sign of quality, look for a machine with a longer warranty, especially for the cutters Safety Safety features should be an important consideration especially in homes with children Look for shredders with locking features Consider models that have added safety features Ease of Use Whether for home or business, a shredder should be simple to set up and operate Look for easy to empty designs and cutter heads that are easy to move Depending upon your needs, shredders can offer a range of convenience features like auto start and stop, bin full indicator lights and casters for mobility