Buying a Shredder: Choosing the Right Security Level and Application Area

by Anna Ullmann on Jul 12, 2026

Data Protection Guide

Buying a shredder: Choosing the right security levels and applications

The right document shredder depends on the protection requirements, paper volume, number of users, and location. A high sheet capacity alone says little about suitability for everyday use and data protection.

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Short Answer

For personal and confidential business documents, particle cut is often advisable. Choose the security level and device performance based on the actual protection requirements. Also consider continuous operation, bin volume, noise, automatic feed, and location.

Strip-cut or particle-cut?

Cut Type Characteristic Typical Use
Strip-cut long paper strips, high volume in the bin less sensitive internal documents
Particle-cut smaller particles, more difficult reconstruction personal and confidential documents

Understanding security levels

DIN 66399 differentiates security levels for various data carriers. For paper, the level is indicated with P. The smaller the particles, the higher the protection. The selection must match the company's protection requirements; general statements for every industry are unsuitable.

Performance suitable for use

  • Individual workstation: compact, quiet, smaller quantities
  • Team device: larger bin and longer run time
  • Central device: high performance, robust continuous operation
  • Autofeed: automatic processing of inserted stacks

Important purchasing criteria

  • Sheet capacity and continuous operation
  • Bin volume and emptying
  • Noise level
  • Processing of staples or cards according to manufacturer
  • Overload and reverse function
  • Availability of waste bags and oil

Location and organization

A device must be easily accessible. At the same time, confidential documents should not be openly collected. Define which documents are to be destroyed immediately and how larger quantities are to be handled.

Common mistakes

  • Choosing a device based solely on maximum sheet capacity
  • Bin too small for the number of users
  • Failure to document protection requirements
  • Device located too far away
  • No maintenance, emptying, or accountability

Frequently Asked Questions

What security level does an office need?

This depends on the data being destroyed. Personal and confidential documents require a higher level of protection than general paper.

What is P-4?

A commonly used particle-cut level for confidential and personal paper documents; the specific suitability must be checked based on the protection requirements.

Is Autofeed worthwhile?

Yes, if larger stacks regularly accumulate and employees should not have to stand at the device continuously.

How often should a shredder be oiled?

According to manufacturer's instructions and depending on the cut type and usage.

Can Wiepa allow devices to be tested?

Wiepa advises on suitable performance and can arrange a practical trial depending on the model.

Sources

GDPR, BfDI and manufacturer's specifications for DIN 66399.

Choosing the right shredder

Wiepa supports companies, practices, and administrations with security level, performance, and location.

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