Have Your Documents Professionally Shredded
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Having your documents professionally shredded is a secure way to dispose of sensitive information. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Gather Your Documents: Collect all the documents you want to shred. These may include old financial records, medical records, legal documents, bank statements, credit card offers, and any other paper documents containing personal or confidential information. Don’t forget about junk mail like credit card offers, they have your personal information also so make sure you have them shredded.
2. Sort and Organize: Before shredding, take some time to sort and organize your documents. Separate the ones that you want shredded from the ones you still need to keep. Doing this before the paper shredding service arrives will make the process much quicker. Then put the documents in boxes, garbage bags, or any type of container that makes the documents easier to handle by the shredding service.
3. Select a Shredding Service: There are several options for professional document shredding:
a. Mobile Shredding Services: Mobile shredding companies come to your location with a mobile shredding truck equipped with industrial-grade shredders. They can shred your documents on-site, and you can witness the process for added security.
b. Off-Site Shredding Services: With off-site shredding, the shredding company collects your documents in locked bins or containers they provide. The service provider then moves the bins and shreds the documents at their secure facility.
c. Drop-Off Shredding Services: Some companies, such as office supply stores or mail centers, offer drop-off shredding services. You bring your documents to their location, and they place your documents in a locked container and then a third party removes and shreds the documents at another location.
4. Research Shredding Companies: Look for reputable shredding companies in your area. Consider factors like their security measures, certifications, pricing, customer reviews, and easy scheduling. Make sure the company complies with privacy laws and regulations.
5. Schedule an Appointment: Contact the chosen shredding service and schedule an appointment for either on-site or off-site shredding, depending on your preference. Will they shred when it is best for you?
6. Prepare the Documents: Place your sorted documents in boxes, garbage bags, or any type of container that makes them easy to handle. If you’re using a drop-off service, pack your documents securely in boxes or bags.
7. Witness the Shredding (if desired): If you opt for on-site shredding, you can witness the shredding process to ensure your documents are destroyed properly. This provides an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
8. Receive a Certificate of Destruction: After the shredding is complete, the shredding service should provide you with a Certificate of Destruction. This document certifies that your documents have been securely and properly shredded by privacy laws.
9. Securely Dispose of Shredded Material: Once your documents are shredded, the shredded material is typically recycled. Ensure that the shredding service adheres to environmentally responsible practices.
10. Maintain Records: Keep a record of the shredding service’s certificate, along with any relevant information, for your records. This may be necessary for compliance with legal or regulatory requirements.
