I have several paper shredders for my Houston insurance and mortgage business. Each is a different model and so far I like the Royal 160 MX the best.

This shredder is rated for a maximum of 16 pages at one time. My other Royal shredder is a 12 sheet model and the 160MX is significantly more powerful and quieter.

This shredder is a crosscut model. That means it cuts strips and then further cuts the strip into small pieces. This increases security and helps make the waste more compact. For any use where security is important crosscut or diamond cut is superior to strip cut.

Other features include the ability to cut CD’s and credit cards. Staples are not a problem and go right through. It has an auto start/stop feature and a large waste basket. The model is heavy at about 32 pounds but there are casters so it is not too hard to move. The bucket holds 28 liters. There is a LED message center that tells the status (ready, shredding, etc.). That feature is not much value to me; it seems more like a selling gimmick than a useful feature.

I paid $130 delivered from an internet supply company for my Royal 160MX. This is a very good price to value compared to the other shredders I have bought. It may be more than you need for home use, or too small for a very large business. I find it to be a good fit for an insurance agency, or similar size business.

Having used several shredders I have some suggestions if you are getting this type of machine:

Employees will be more likely to destroy unneeded documents if they have their own shredder (As compared to having a single larger unit at a central location).

Check employees waste baskets to make sure that shredding policy is being followed.

Get a large sheet capacity unit. They are less likely to jam, work faster, and generally last longer.

Get a large waste basket capacity so it won’t need to be emptied as often.

Crosscut units are superior to strip cut models for security.

Use oil on the waste paper frequently if the machines instructions suggest that.

As an update, after about one year of service the machine needs to be replaced. The motor has been loosing power for the last two months. Now it can only handle about 4 sheets at once. I have probably put about a case of paper through the machine per month. For home use I am sure it would last longer. For medium to heavy use you may want to get a more heavy duty machine.

Lamb Insurance Agency, (Farmers Insurance) Auto, Home, Life, and Business Insurance for Texas – Houston Auto Insurance or Houston Farmers Insurance

Article Directory: EzineArticles http://ezinearticles.com