How to Choose the Right Shredder for Your Business
When it comes to running a business in the UK—whether you're in an office, a warehouse, or a light industrial setting—having the right paper or cardboard shredder is more than just a convenience. It’s about security, efficiency, and compliance. With GDPR regulations in full force and data breaches making headlines, choosing the right shredder is essential for protecting sensitive documents and keeping operations smooth.
Here’s a helpful, jargon-free guide to selecting the perfect shredder for your business needs.
1. Understand What You’re Shredding
- Office Documents: Printed reports, invoices, staff files, and confidential records.
- Cardboard Packaging: Common in shipping and warehouse settings.
- Mixed Media: CDs, credit cards, or USB sticks.
Understanding your shredding materials ensures you don’t underbuy—or overspend—on a machine that’s not fit for purpose.
2. Choose the Right Cut Type
- Strip Cut (P-1 to P-2): Basic level, suitable for low-security needs.
- Cross Cut (P-3 to P-4): Better data protection, ideal for general office use.
- Micro Cut (P-5 to P-7): Required for highly sensitive data like HR or financial files.
For most UK businesses concerned about GDPR compliance, cross-cut or micro-cut shredders are recommended.
3. Consider Your Shredding Volume
How much paper do you shred daily?
| Business Size |
Daily Use |
Recommended Shredder Type |
| Small Office (1–5 users) |
Low (up to 100 sheets/day) |
Compact office shredder (e.g. Kobra C4 Hybrid) |
| Medium Office (6–20 users) |
Medium (100–500 sheets/day) |
Mid-size cross cut (e.g. Rexel Auto+ 300X) |
| Large Office/Light Industrial |
High (500+ sheets/day or cardboard) |
Heavy duty/industrial models (e.g. Kobra 400, HSM FA400,2) |
Factor in run-time and bin size to avoid frequent stops.
4. Check for Useful Features
- Jam Prevention (auto-reverse)
- Noise Reduction
- Auto Feed
- Safety Lock
- Energy Saving modes
Think about how the machine will be used in real-world, day-to-day scenarios.
5. Cardboard Shredding? Go Specialist
If you’re dealing with cardboard waste, a standard office shredder won’t cut it. You’ll need a dedicated cardboard shredder to turn waste into recyclable or packaging material.
The ShredPack SP320 is a tough, freestanding, 13amp model ideal for packaging departments.
At SRS Shredding, we offer expert advice and access to the UK’s only cardboard shredder showroom, where you can see machines in action before making a decision.
6. Stick to Trusted Brands
We recommend sticking to reliable, well-known brands:
- ecoVoid: The toughest cardboard packaging shredders
- Fellowes: Great for small to mid-size offices
- Rexel: Quiet operation and auto-feed options
- HSM: Industrial strength and excellent for departmental shredding
- Kobra: High-security shredders for finance, legal and government
- ShredPack: A market leader in cardboard shredders
7. Don’t Forget Servicing & Support
Like any machine, shredders need maintenance. Look for:
- On-site repairs
- Spare parts availability
- Maintenance plans
- Reliable UK-based support
SRS Shredding provides sales and expert repairs, all under one roof.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right shredder doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on your specific needs, and go with a machine that delivers performance and reliability.
Need help choosing? Visit our showroom or speak to an expert at SRS Shredding. We’ll help you find the perfect model and keep it running smoothly for years to come.
