How does the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) relate to shredders and shredding?

GDPR requires organisations to apply sound security practices to all electronic and paper-based personal data with respect to its collection, storage, access and disposal. Part of the requirement is to put plans in place for what should happen in the event of a breach. Whilst electronic data security has been prioritised by many organisations for many years, the security of paper based personal data is often neglected or overlooked. Statistics indicate that around 40% of data breaches may be paper based. A clear and firm document shredding policy is required supported by robust GDPR compliance process.

All potentially sensitive information of both a personal and business nature should be disposed of securely to avoid the risk of corporate fraud, identity fraud, industrial espionage and even international espionage – for example, if you are a contractor or supplier to the government, MOD, NATO, etc. Despite a great deal of publicity and adverse headlines, even now, many organisations and individuals still throw out confidential documents without thinking of the potential consequences should the files end up in the wrong hands. Since the Data Protection Act was passed in 1998, companies are obliged to protect hard copies of information on individuals or organisations that could put that person or organisation at risk should the information become public knowledge. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) of 2018 further increased the responsibility of businesses and organisations to protect the personal data of UK and EU citizens.

Why Oil Your Shredder?

All Paper Shredders need shredder oil to continue to function properly. It is very common for paper dust to build up inside of the cutting assembly. After time, this sediment can become packed together like cement. Oil serves to soften this packed dust, which allows the movement of the cutting head. The proper movement of this head will push the dust out of the paper shredder. The finer the cut the paper shredder makes, the more oil it will need. Small particle cut shredders and high security specification machines require a lot of oil. Paper shredders, as with all electromechanical equipment, will not operate efficiently unless they are properly maintained. Periodic oiling is necessary to allow the shredder to operate at maximum efficiency. Frequency of oiling will vary greatly with the volume of use and the shred size. A shredder with a 5.8mm shred width used only 1 to 2 hours per week will only require a weekly oiling. A crosscut shredder, however, should be oiled every 1/2 hour of shredding time. The procedure for oiling a shredding machine is very simple and can be done by any operator. The oil is either packaged in a squeeze bottle or in pre-impregnated sheets. Always switch the machine off at the mains point before applying liquid oil. Oil from a squeeze bottle can be applied directly onto the cutting head in a fine stream. This is done through the paper entry throat. Take 1-2 seconds to oil from one side of the opening to the other. Run the machine in reverse for about 10-15 seconds to allow the oil to transfer to all parts of the cutting head. The final step is to shred a few sheets of paper to remove any excess oil. Alternatively, impregnated shredder oil sheets can be shredded like an ordinary sheet of paper to apply the oil. Some shredders come equipped with an oil reservoir and apply the oil to the cutters automatically as it is needed. This reservoir should be topped up as and when necessary from a squeeze bottle. Shredder oil is the only lubricant which should be used on your shredder. Shredder oil is of special formulation which leaves no residue on the cutters. Other oils will attract paper dust and in turn clog the cutting head.

Payment Methods & How to Order

At The Shredder Warehouse, we aim to make ordering and paying for your products as straightforward, flexible and secure as possible.

Whether you're purchasing a shredder for your business, home office or personal use, we offer several convenient payment options. You can order and pay securely online, over the telephone, through a payment link or by bank transfer against a pro-forma invoice.

1. Order & Pay Securely Online

The quickest and easiest way to order is directly through our website, where you can choose from a wide range of secure payment methods at checkout.

We accept most major debit and credit cards, together with popular alternative payment options including:

Debit & Credit Cards – Most major cards are accepted.
PayPal – Pay securely using your PayPal account.
Klarna – Flexible payment options, subject to Klarna's terms and eligibility requirements.
Google Pay – Convenient checkout using a compatible device and payment method.
Apple Pay – Quick and secure payment using a compatible Apple device.

We Accept

All payments are processed securely. Available payment methods may vary at checkout. Klarna payments are subject to eligibility and approval.

2. Secure Online Payment Link

If you would prefer to order directly through our sales team, we can arrange your order and send you a secure online payment link by email.

This allows you to make your payment conveniently without needing to go through the website checkout.

Depending on the payment methods available, you can pay using a debit or credit card, PayPal, Google Pay or another supported online payment option.

This is particularly useful for customers who have requested a quotation, discussed their requirements with us or need assistance placing an order.

3. Pay by Debit or Credit Card Over the Telephone

If you prefer to speak to someone before ordering, our team will be happy to help.

We can discuss your requirements, confirm product availability, arrange your order and securely process your debit or credit card payment over the telephone.

Call our sales team on 01225 690700.

4. Pro-Forma Invoice & Bank Transfer

For businesses and private individuals who prefer to pay by bank transfer, we can provide a pro-forma invoice containing our bank account details and the total amount payable.

Simply contact us with details of the products you wish to purchase, together with your billing and delivery information.

We will prepare and email your pro-forma invoice, allowing you to arrange payment directly from your bank account.

Please quote the invoice reference when making your payment so that we can identify it promptly.

Orders paid by bank transfer can be released for despatch once cleared payment has been received, subject to product availability.

5. Public Sector Orders & 30-Day Accounts

We also welcome orders from schools, colleges, universities, NHS organisations, local authorities, government departments, police and emergency services, and other public-sector bodies.

In addition to our standard payment options, public-sector organisations can:

Pay by procurement card, either securely online or over the telephone.
Place orders using an official purchase order or authorised reference, with payment on 30-day account terms.
Submit purchase orders by email, telephone or online chat, with invoices issued directly to their finance department.

For full details of our public-sector ordering arrangements, please visit our dedicated page:

Public Sector Orders – Ordering & Payment Information

Secure Payments & Customer Support

Your payment security is important to us. Online transactions are handled through secure payment processing services, and we do not store your credit or debit card details.

Whichever payment method you choose, our experienced team is available to assist with product selection, quotations, ordering and payment enquiries.

Need help placing an order?

Telephone: 01225 690700

Email: contact@twcgroup.co.uk

We're always happy to help you find the most convenient way to order and pay.