Does FedEx Offer Shredding Services? The Definitive Guide

The short answer is no, FedEx Office does not directly offer shredding services like you might find at a dedicated document destruction company. However, before you click away in disappointment, let’s unpack what options are available through FedEx and explore alternative solutions for securely destroying your sensitive documents. This isn’t just a simple “yes” or “no” answer; it’s about understanding the nuances and finding the best shredding solution for your specific needs.

Understanding FedEx’s Core Services

FedEx’s core business revolves around shipping, printing, and select business services. Their strength lies in logistics and handling packages with speed and efficiency. While FedEx Office provides valuable services like copying, printing, and packaging, document destruction doesn’t typically fall under their direct service offerings. You might be able to ship documents to a shredding service using FedEx, but they won’t shred them for you in-store.

Why Doesn’t FedEx Offer Shredding?

The decision for FedEx not to offer shredding likely comes down to a few key factors:

• Focus on Core Competencies: FedEx excels in shipping and related services. Adding a complex service like shredding requires significant investment in equipment, security protocols, and employee training, potentially diluting their focus.
• Liability and Risk: Secure document destruction carries significant legal and financial risks. Improper handling of sensitive information can lead to lawsuits and reputational damage. FedEx might prefer to avoid this liability.
• Market Competition: The document shredding industry is already well-established, with numerous companies specializing in this area. Entering this market would require competing with experienced players.
• Operational Overhead: Shredding requires dedicated space for machinery, waste disposal, and security. This adds to the operational overhead of each FedEx Office location.

Alternatives for Secure Document Shredding

Don’t despair! Just because FedEx doesn’t directly offer shredding doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Here are several excellent alternatives:

• Dedicated Shredding Companies: Companies like Shred-it, Iron Mountain, and PROSHRED specialize in document destruction. They offer both on-site and off-site shredding services, ensuring secure and compliant disposal of your sensitive information.
• Office Supply Stores: Chains like Staples and Office Depot often provide shredding services. You can bring your documents to their store, and they will securely shred them for a fee. This is a convenient option for smaller shredding jobs.
• Local Shredding Services: Search online for local shredding companies in your area. These businesses can provide personalized service and competitive pricing.
• Mobile Shredding Services: Some companies offer mobile shredding services, where a shredding truck comes to your location to shred your documents on-site. This is ideal for businesses with large volumes of documents or those requiring witnessed destruction.
• DIY Shredding: For small quantities of documents, you can purchase a personal shredder and destroy them yourself. While this is the least expensive option, it requires more time and effort.

Using FedEx to Ship to a Shredding Service

While FedEx doesn’t perform the shredding, they can certainly facilitate it. You can utilize FedEx’s shipping services to send your documents securely to a reputable shredding company. Here’s what you need to consider:

• Packaging: Ensure your documents are securely packaged in a sturdy box or container. Seal the container tightly to prevent documents from falling out during transit.
• Labeling: Clearly label the package with the recipient’s address (the shredding company) and your return address. Consider adding a label indicating “Confidential Documents – Handle with Care.”
• Shipping Options: Choose a FedEx shipping option that provides tracking and insurance. This will allow you to monitor the progress of your shipment and provide coverage in case of loss or damage. Consider using FedEx Express for faster delivery.
• Confirmation: Contact the shredding company to confirm they received your documents and to arrange for the shredding process.

FAQs About Shredding and FedEx

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide you with more in-depth information about shredding services and how they relate to FedEx.

1. What types of documents should I shred?

Any document containing personally identifiable information (PII), such as social security numbers, bank account numbers, credit card numbers, medical records, and addresses, should be shredded. This helps prevent identity theft and protects your privacy. Consider shredding old bills, receipts, financial statements, and any other documents you no longer need that contain sensitive data.

2. Is it really necessary to shred documents?

Yes! Identity theft is a serious crime, and shredding documents is a crucial step in protecting yourself. Even seemingly insignificant documents can be used by criminals to steal your identity or gain access to your financial accounts.

3. What is the difference between on-site and off-site shredding?

On-site shredding involves a shredding truck coming to your location to shred your documents. This allows you to witness the destruction process and ensures maximum security. Off-site shredding involves your documents being transported to a secure facility for shredding.

4. How do I choose a reputable shredding company?

Look for a company that is NAID AAA Certified. This certification indicates that the company meets strict security standards and adheres to industry best practices. Also, check online reviews and ask for references.

5. What is NAID AAA Certification?

NAID AAA Certification is a voluntary certification program for information destruction providers administered by the National Association for Information Destruction (NAID). It ensures that a shredding company meets stringent standards for security, employee screening, and operational procedures.

6. How much does shredding cost?

The cost of shredding varies depending on the volume of documents, the type of shredding service (on-site or off-site), and the company you choose. Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1 to $3 per pound for one-time shredding services. Ongoing shredding services may have different pricing structures.

7. Can I shred documents with staples and paper clips?

Generally, yes. Most commercial shredders can handle staples and paper clips. However, it’s always best to check with the shredding company to confirm their policy. Removing these items can also extend the life of the shredder.

8. What happens to the shredded paper after it’s destroyed?

Most shredding companies recycle the shredded paper. This helps to reduce waste and conserve natural resources. Ask your chosen provider about their recycling practices.

9. Can I shred hard drives and other electronic media?

Yes, hard drives and other electronic media should also be securely destroyed to prevent data breaches. Specialized shredding companies offer services for destroying electronic media. Simply deleting files is not enough to protect your data.

10. What are the legal requirements for document destruction?

Depending on your industry, you may be subject to specific legal requirements for document destruction. For example, HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) mandates secure disposal of medical records. Consult with a legal professional to ensure you are compliant with all applicable regulations.

11. How can I ensure the security of my documents before they are shredded?

Store your documents in a secure location with limited access. Implement a clear desk policy to prevent sensitive information from being left unattended. Use locked shredding containers to collect documents awaiting destruction.

12. If FedEx doesn’t shred, who should I call for shipping documents to a shredding company?

While you can use FedEx, you should contact your chosen shredding company directly. They can often provide guidance on the best packaging and shipping methods, and may even have preferred partnerships with specific carriers for discounted rates.

In conclusion, while FedEx does not directly offer shredding services, understanding your options and utilizing alternative solutions is key to ensuring secure and compliant document destruction. By choosing a reputable shredding company and considering FedEx’s shipping capabilities, you can protect your sensitive information and prevent identity theft.