Paper clutter is the silent thief of sanity. Bills, old tax documents, confidential letters… they pile up faster than your “to-do” list. But before you toss them in the trash, think: identity theft is real, and shredding is your first defense.
Lucky for us, there’s no shortage of services that can make your old documents disappear like magic. But the big question is: how much will it cost? Let’s break down the 10 best paper shredding services, with an emphasis on UPS shredding cost and other popular options.
1. UPS Shredding Services
UPS isn’t just for shipping. Their document shredding services are reliable and convenient. On average, UPS shredding cost ranges from $10–$25 for small bags or boxes of paper.
- How much does shredding cost at UPS? Prices can vary depending on your location and volume, but the good news is that you can drop documents at your local UPS store and leave the rest to them.
Pro tip: If you have a large volume of documents, call ahead—some stores offer bulk discounts.
2. Shred Nations
Shred Nations is like the Uber of shredding. They come to your location and handle all the paperwork for you.
- Shred Nations cost typically starts around $100 for up to 100 pounds of paper, but the convenience is unmatched.
They also cater to both one-time and recurring shredding needs, perfect if you’re running a home office or small business.
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3. Staples Shredding
Staples isn’t just for pens and paper. Many stores offer shredding. But here’s the catch: does Staples shred paper for free?
- Not usually. Most stores charge per pound, roughly $1–$2 per pound of paper.
- Some stores run occasional promotions, so it’s worth asking.
Staples is ideal if you already have other office errands to run.
4. FedEx Office Shredding
FedEx makes shredding simple. Known as FedEx shredding or shredding at FedEx, they accept personal documents and confidential papers.
- The cost depends on the weight and service level. Expect $1–$3 per pound for standard shredding.
- Some locations also offer hard-drive destruction if you’re dealing with digital security.
5. Kinko’s Shredding
Kinko’s, now part of FedEx Office, is another option for fast, reliable shredding. Pricing aligns closely with FedEx rates, making it an accessible choice if you’re near a Kinko’s branch.
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6. Local Mail & Copy Centers
Many local print shops and mail centers offer shredding. Prices are often competitive, sometimes as low as $0.50 per pound. The benefit? Personalized service and flexibility with timing.
7. Mobile Shredding Trucks
Mobile shredding companies drive to your home or office, shred on-site, and take away everything. Ideal for large cleanups.
- Cost varies, but for office loads, it’s often $150–$300 per visit.
- Security is high because you see the shredding happen live.
8. Office Supply Stores
Besides Staples, stores like Office Depot occasionally provide shredding services. They may charge per pound or offer bulk packages. Always call ahead to confirm.
9. Community Shredding Events
Many municipalities or banks host free or low-cost shredding days. Great for personal documents but usually limited in volume and timing.
- Cost: Free to minimal
- Tip: Arrive early; these events can get crowded fast.
10. Specialty Shredding Companies
Finally, there are companies dedicated entirely to shredding, like Iron Mountain. Best for businesses or anyone with large confidential loads.
- Pricing can be per box, per pound, or on subscription.
- Security is top-notch, with certificates provided for destroyed documents.
Quick Tips for Choosing a Shredding Service
- Volume matters – Small piles are perfect for UPS or Staples; massive cleanouts need mobile shredders.
- Security first – Ask if they provide a certificate of destruction.
- Compare costs – UPS shredding cost is reasonable for convenience, but mobile shredders may save money for bulk jobs.
- Check promos – Stores sometimes offer free or discounted shredding during events.
Final Thoughts
It’s not pretty, but shredding is a must. There is an option for every volume and budget available when it comes to getting documents shredded, whether you use UPS shredders, FedEx, Staples, or a local shredding provider who comes to you. You’re paying for peace of mind, not simply paying money. Reduce clutter, protect your data, and possibly even feel a little victorious.