Starting a Paper Shredding Business

Ever wondered if starting a paper shredding business could be the small business idea for you?

Typical Services

There are a number of ways to deliver this service, depending on your clients needs. The most simple business model involves you taking a heavy-duty or commercial strength shredder (usually on a trolley) to your client's premises.

There you set up your shredder and get to work shredding any records the client wants destroyed.

When the job is completed and all the records are destroyed, you remove the shredded paper from the premises and dispose of it in a secure manner.

Qualifications?

To start this kind of business you do not need any formal qualifications, but you will need to have a professional image Time management and scheduling skills will also be important.

Equipment?

Obviously the primary piece of equipment for this type of business is a heavy duty shredder which will set you back around $300.

You will also need a trolley of some kind to load and unload your shredder and any other consumables from your vehicle.

You will also need a computer, printer, fax and a cell phone. Depending on the type of equipment you select this will cost you anywhere between $2,000 - $5,000.

Setup Costs?

Apart from the equipment mentioned above, you should also invest in consumables like garbage bags and office supplies to start you off. You will have to advertise your service and business cards and promotional materials are also a good idea.

Business insurance to indemnify you against any loss your services cause for your clients and income protection insurance are also a good idea.

Total start-up costs including your equipment purchases will range between $3,500 to $7,500.

Potential Earnings?

Typically the services of a confidential paper shredding business are charged on a per visit basis. The price will vary depending on the volume of paper to be shredded. If you are working from home, your overheads will be relatively low and you can calculate your fees based on an hourly rate of around $25.

Don't forget to factor in traveling and disposal time and charge accordingly.

Your potential earnings from providing a confidential on-site shredding service will be between $20,000 to $40,000 per year.

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