What CAN I Put in a Secure Document Bin?
Can I put client files and contact lists in a shredding bin?
Yes. Confidential client files and contact databases are accepted.
Can financial reports and tax documents go in secure bins?
Yes. Financial paperwork, invoices, and tax records are suitable for secure destruction.
Can I shred employee records?
Yes. Employee files and HR documentation can be placed in secure bins.
Can I put private letters and correspondence in the bin?
Yes. Personal and business correspondence is accepted.
Can I put staples in the shredding bin?
Yes. Staples are allowed and do not need to be removed.
Are paper clips allowed?
Yes. Standard paper clips are acceptable.
Can printed emails and general office paper go in?
Yes. Standard white office paper is fully accepted.
What About Coloured Paper?
Can coloured paper go in secure document bins?
Light office-coloured paper is generally acceptable. However, coloured manila folders or heavily dyed paper may be restricted depending on the provider.
What CANNOT Go in a Secure Document Bin?
Can I put cardboard in a shredding bin?
No. Cardboard is not accepted in standard secure paper bins.
Can archive boxes go inside the bin?
No. Archive boxes require a separate box destruction service.
Can arch lever folders be shredded?
No. These must be emptied, and the metal mechanism removed.
Can plastic sleeves go in secure bins?
No. Plastic sleeves are not allowed.
Can plastic binders be shredded?
No. Plastic binders must be removed.
Can hanging folders go in?
No. The metal bars and plastic components must be removed.
Can I put magazines in the shredding bin?
No. Magazines are typically not accepted due to glossy coating.
Can photo paper be shredded?
No. Photo paper is not accepted.
Can newspapers go in secure bins?
Generally no. Newspaper ink and paper quality can contaminate recycling processes.
Are bulldog clips allowed in shredding bins?
No. Bulldog clips must be removed before disposal.
Can hard covers from diaries or books go in?
No. Hard covers are not accepted.
Can coloured manila folders be placed in secure bins?
No. These are usually restricted.
Can I put batteries in a shredding bin?
Absolutely not. Batteries are a serious fire risk.
Can food waste go in a secure document bin?
No. Bins are strictly for paper documents only.
Can I put medical waste in the bin?
No. Medical waste requires specialised disposal.
Can I shred USBs, hard drives, or CDs in paper bins?
No. Electronic media requires specialised destruction services.
Can large metal objects go in the shredding bin?
No. Only small items like staples and paper clips are allowed.
Why Are Some Items Restricted?
Secure shredding providers process paper for recycling. Materials such as plastic, metal, cardboard, glossy paper, and batteries:
Damage industrial shredders
Contaminate recycled paper pulp
Create safety hazards
Increase disposal costs
Following bin guidelines helps avoid contamination fees and service delays.
Are Secure Document Bins Compliant With Australian Privacy Laws?
es. Professional shredding services help businesses meet obligations under the Privacy Act 1988 by ensuring confidential information is destroyed securely.
What Should I Do If I Have Restricted Items?
If you need destruction for:
Archive boxes
Electronic media
X-rays
Fabric or branded uniforms
You should request a specialised destruction service instead of using a standard paper bin.
Need Secure Document Bins?
ShredFinder connects businesses and individuals with trusted shredding providers across Sydney and Australia.
If you’re unsure about a specific item, it’s always best to ask before placing it in your secure document bin.
