How to Save on Paper Shredding

Community shredding events are a cheap way to shred your papers.

Shredding your files and records will prevent thieves from obtaining your confidential information. If you have a large amount of paper to shred, and don't want to buy a heavy-duty shredder, you may have another option. Your town or county may sponsor paper-shredding days. You bring your boxes of paper from home, usually up to two or three boxes at one time, and toss your paper into a huge shredder for either a small donation -- or free. The city or county then sends all shredded paper to be recycled.

Things You'll Need

• Sturdy boxes
• Internet access

Instructions

1. Set aside a place in your home for a large, sturdy box. Collect all papers you want to shred.

2. Log onto the Internet, go to a search engine, and type "community shredding event" or "paper shredding event," along with your city and state. Most community shredding events list on the county's waste management facilities or municipal websites.

3. Find the date, time and location of your town's shredding event, and mark it on a calendar. Write down a contact number, if provided, to get information on the event.

4. Call the contact number a day or two before the event,to confirm the validity of the information provided on the website and to confirm that there are no cancellations.

Tips & Warnings

• Locate sturdy boxes, that are reusable and stack well, to collect your papers.

• Look for any restrictions within the event. Many events only allow a certain amount of boxes per household, or only allow county residents with I.D. to enter.

References

• Washington State Office of the Attorney General: Shredathon Events

Resources

• FilesToShred.com: Here's Where and How to Find Your Event