Which paper files are worth scanning?
Scan what you use, what you must keep and what you cannot replace. Much of the rest can be archived as paper or safely shredded.
Fewer than you think. Scan what you actually look things up in, what you are required to keep, and what you could never replace. The rest can stay boxed or be shredded securely.
Usually worth scanning
- Active client or customer files
- Contracts, leases and agreements still in force
- Warranties and equipment manuals you still use
- Records you are obliged to retain
Often not worth it
- Old catalogues and marketing leaflets
- Duplicates of documents that exist digitally elsewhere
- Files for long-finished jobs past any retention period
A note on personal data
Files with customer details need secure storage once scanned and secure shredding once discarded. Keep scans in a protected, backed-up location, not on a single laptop.
Ready to start? Follow our scanning method.