Every business that handles confidential paperwork eventually faces a key question: how can documents be securely destroyed when they’re no longer needed? Two main options exist: on-site shredding, where the destruction happens at your premises, and off-site shredding, where documents are transported to a secure facility. Here’s how they compare, so you can decide which is best for your organisation.
What the two methods mean
On-site shredding means a mobile shredding unit comes to your premises and destroys your confidential paper on the spot. You can often witness the process for complete peace of mind.
Off-site shredding means your documents are collected and securely transported to a dedicated facility for destruction. The process is tracked and certified.
Advantages of on-site shredding
It provides transparency and reassurance because you can see or confirm that your papers are shredded immediately.
There’s no transport risk because the documents are destroyed before they leave your site.
It can offer a quick turnaround, useful for urgent clear-outs.
Handling is minimised since destruction happens straight away.
Drawbacks of on-site shredding
It tends to cost more, since the mobile unit and operator must travel to you.
You need suitable access and space for the vehicle.
Mobile equipment may not handle very large volumes efficiently.
Some sites find the presence of external shredding vehicles disruptive.
Advantages of off-site shredding
It’s more economical for regular or high-volume collections because specialist facilities process large quantities quickly.
It avoids disruption at your premises.
Off-site facilities are designed for security, with CCTV, alarms and restricted access. Box-it North Midlands also tracks every consignment by barcode.
It fits neatly into a regular schedule using secure consoles or sacks in your office.
Drawbacks of off-site shredding
You can’t usually witness the destruction in person.
Documents spend some time in transit, though they are kept sealed and tracked.
There may be a short delay before destruction is complete.
It’s less suitable for urgent or highly sensitive one-off disposals.
How to choose between them
Think about your document volume, sensitivity, budget and compliance requirements.
Small or occasional quantities may be best handled on-site for immediate destruction.
Large or recurring volumes are often cheaper and more efficient off-site.
Highly confidential material can justify the added control of on-site shredding.
If cost or convenience matters most, off-site is often ideal.
Many businesses use both: regular off-site collections plus occasional on-site visits for special projects.
Why choose Box-it North Midlands
Box-it North Midlands provides secure document shredding across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Staffordshire. Our purpose-built rural facility offers 24-hour security and fire protection, and every step of the process is tracked for complete compliance. We supply secure consoles and sacks for off-site shredding or can arrange tailored on-site solutions.
To discuss your needs or request a quote, contact the Box-it North Midlands team today and we’ll help you find the most secure, cost-effective way to manage your confidential document destruction.