Why should I choose Cross-Cut Paper Shredders?

Of the two main types of paper shredders, cross-cut machines have many more advantages their the strip-cut cousins. Here they are so you can decide if they’re right for you….

1.) One of the best advantages to using a cross-cut shredder is that you’ll enjoy more security. These machines are more secure than their strip-cut counterparts because they produce paper particles as opposed to strips. This is very important if you’re trying to get rid of documents containing really private information such as Social Security numbers, banking information, medical records, and more. You can tell how secure a device is by looking at its security rating. Level 1 units offer the least amount of security while Level 6 ones offer the most. Be sure to choose something with the appropriate rating for your needs.

2.) There are a lot of cross-cut shredders available that can shred more than just paper. This is convenient – and important – because so much of today’s information stored on electronic media. This type of media includes CD’s, DVD’s, and DAT tape. Some machines can also shred floppy disks, even those these items are in use much any more. If you choose a device that can handle these items your information will be much safer.

3.) Some of the larger cross-cut devices have continuous-duty motors. These motors can run constantly and don’t need to cool off in between loads of paper. They’re perfect for shared workplaces in which people will need to shred a lot of paper over the course of a workday. There are also cross-cut units that have regular motors but they’re better suited for personal or small business use. These machines can shred for several minutes. However, you’ll then need to let them cool off. Some have to cool off for around 20 minutes which can be quite a long wait to say the least.

4.) Just about every paper shredder you can buy has some sort of safety feature to ensure safe operation. Some cross-cut shredders even have technology that causes them to stop shredding when an embedded sensor detects hands close to the feed opening. Looking for this feature is a good idea because you’ll definitely feel safer using this type of shredder.

5.) Cross-cut paper shredders are manufactured by a number of companies. Some of the most popular office device manufacturers make them including GBC and Fellowes. You’ll also come across devices made my companies like Formax, Dahle, and Standard. These companies tend to offer great warranties on their products, so be sure to check them out.