How Long Does Shredding Take For Different Volumes In London?

One of the most frequently asked questions we receive in our emails is: How long does shredding take? The answer varies and depends on several factors, such as the volume of material, the type of shredding services, and the expert company’s efficiency.

In today’s blog, you will find an answer to your question. We will share the typical timeframe for different volumes of documents in London and show you how our experts at London Shredding can assist you in this process.

For more information, speak directly to our London Shredding experts on 0208 858 9200 or email at sales@londonshredding.co.uk.

Factors Affecting Shredding Time

Before we move forward, let us help you know what are the factors that would affect the shredding process in London:

1. Volume: More documents result in longer shredding times. On the other hand, a few boxes or sacks are quicker to shred.
2. Type of shredding: Onsite shredding has its own benefits, but offsite can handle larger volumes faster with professional shredding service providers in London.
3. Efficiency of the shredding company: Companies with multiple shredders and experienced staff can quickly process larger volumes.
4. Material type: Different materials, such as paper, cardboard, hard drives or electronics, can affect shredding time; items with bindings require extra handling.
5. Transportation time: Offsite shredding involves transport time, influenced by distance and traffic conditions.
6. Preparation time: Sorting and organising documents before shredding can add to the overall duration.
7. Access challenges: Physical layout issues such as narrow hallways, multiple floors, and parking can also slow the collection process.
8. Shredding frequency: Regularly scheduled shredding may take longer if a business generates a high volume of documents between collections.
9. Equipment efficiency: Advanced shredders with higher capacities can process materials faster than older machines.
10. Client-specific requirements: Additional requests like detailed reporting or special handling can prolong the shredding process.

Shredding Time Estimates By Volume

Now that you understand the factors that affect shredding time, let’s equip you with the volume-based shredding time taken by experts:

1. Small Volumes (1-10 Boxes)

For small volumes, such as 1-10 standard banker’s boxes, the offsite shredding time can take an average of 30-60 minutes. This estimate does not include the time for collection and transportation to the shredding facility. The entire shredding process, from collection to shredding, will likely take longer. Ask experts by providing them detail, and they will let you know the timescale and price.

2. Medium Volumes (10-50 Boxes)

When dealing with medium volumes of 10-50 boxes, the offsite shredding team can generally process this amount in 1-2 hours on average. The efficiency of the shredding facility, equipped with larger shredders, allows for a streamlined process that can handle this volume effectively. This timeframe ensures businesses can quickly clear their commercial confidential materials without significant downtime.

3. Large Volumes (50+ Boxes)

Offsite shredding becomes the most efficient choice for large volumes of 50 boxes or more. A professional shredding company can typically shred 50-100 boxes per hour, depending on its equipment and staffing levels. This means that businesses can expect a rapid turnaround for extensive shredding needs, often completing the shredding of large volumes within a few hours. This efficiency is particularly beneficial for organisations that generate substantial amounts of confidential waste.

4. Bulk Shredding

For bulk shredding projects, such as clearing out an entire warehouse, record room and office, offsite shredding is the most practical and efficient option. The shredding company will send a truck to collect the documents, which are then transported to their secure facility. The time required to complete the shredding will depend on the total volume, but a professional shredding service can typically shred a full warehouse in 1-2 days. This allows commercial places to manage large-scale clear-outs effectively while ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.

Also Read: Benefits Of Offsite Shredding

Trust London Shredding Experts For Secure Shredding

At London Shredding, we understand that your time is valuable, and the security of your information is paramount. Our shredding process is designed to be efficient and secure, ensuring your confidential documents are destroyed promptly and responsibly.

Our secure shredding process:

• Initial consultation: We begin with a consultation to understand your shredding needs. Whether you require regular shredding collections or a one-time service, we tailor our approach to fit your requirements.
• Scheduling: We offer flexible scheduling options, including weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly collections, allowing you to choose what works best for your business.
• Collection: Our trained operatives will arrive with secure sacks and bins at your location. You can use your own bags or request our heavy-duty sacks for added security. We ensure that all materials are securely collected and logged using our PDA system for accurate record-keeping.
• Shredding: Once collected, your documents are transported to our facility and shredded in compliance with the European standard BS EN15713. Our state-of-the-art shredders can handle larger to smaller volumes within 12 hours.
• Documentation: After shredding, you will receive a Certificate of Destruction and a Waste Transfer Note for your records, ensuring compliance with GDPR and data protection regulations.
• Recycling: All shredded paper is recycled responsibly at UK paper mills, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Conclusion

We hope you have the answer to your question: How long does shredding take? It depends on several factors, including the volume of material and the type of shredding service you choose.

At London Shredding, we can handle any shredding project efficiently and securely on time and ensure that your sensitive information is protected. If you have questions about shredding times or want to schedule a service, don’t hesitate to contact us at 0208 858 9200 or email sales@londonshredding.co.uk. We’re here to help you keep your data safe!