Amazon Basics AU860XA
Amazon Basics 8-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper and Credit Card Shredder
Instruction Manual
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Amazon Basics 8-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper and Credit Card Shredder. This device is designed to securely dispose of sensitive documents and credit cards, turning them into small, unreadable pieces. For optimal performance and safety, please read this manual thoroughly before operation and retain it for future reference.

Front view of the Amazon Basics 8-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder, showcasing its compact design and clear viewing window.
Safety Information
WARNING: RISK OF FIRE
- Do not spray or keep any aerosol products in or around the shredder.
- Do not shred items like metallic credit cards, as this can damage the shredder and pose a fire risk.
- Keep loose clothing, jewelry, hair, and hands away from the paper entry slot.
- Keep children and pets away from the shredder.
- Always unplug the shredder when not in use or before cleaning.
Setup
- Unpack the shredder and ensure all components are present: shredder head and waste bin.
- Place the waste bin on a flat, stable surface.
- Carefully place the shredder head onto the waste bin, ensuring it is properly aligned and securely seated. The misaligned indicator light will turn off when correctly positioned.
- Plug the power cord into a standard electrical outlet.

The shredder is designed to fit conveniently in a home or office environment.
Operating Instructions
The shredder features a 4-mode control switch and LED status indicators for ease of use.

Close-up of the shredder's control panel, showing the mode switch and indicator lights.
Control Switch Modes:
- OFF (O): Turns the shredder off.
- REVERSE (<<): Reverses the shredding mechanism to clear paper jams.
- AUTO/ON (I): The shredder automatically starts when paper is inserted and stops when shredding is complete. This is the recommended mode for normal operation.
- FORWARD (>>): Manually engages the shredding mechanism to push paper through.
Shredding Documents:
- Set the control switch to AUTO/ON (I). The 'Power On' indicator light will illuminate.
- Insert up to 8 sheets of 20-pound bond paper into the 8.7-inch-wide paper entry slot. The shredder can also handle staples and small paper clips.
- For credit cards, insert one card at a time into the dedicated slot.
- The shredder will automatically begin shredding. Once complete, it will stop.

A user demonstrating the insertion of paper into the shredder's entry slot.
Run Time:
The shredder has a maximum run time of 3 minutes on, followed by a 30-minute cool-down period. Thermal protection and auto shut-off features are included to prevent overheating. If the 'Overheat' indicator light illuminates, allow the shredder to cool down for 30 minutes before resuming operation.
Maintenance
Emptying the Waste Bin:
The shredder features a clear window on the front of the bin, allowing you to monitor the shredded paper level. When the bin appears full:
- Set the control switch to OFF (O) and unplug the shredder from the power outlet.
- Lift the shredder head off the waste bin using the integrated handle.
- Empty the shredded contents from the 4.1-gallon bin into a trash receptacle.
- Replace the shredder head securely onto the waste bin.
- Plug the shredder back into the power outlet.

The shredder's viewing window allows for easy monitoring of the waste bin's fill level.
Troubleshooting
Refer to the indicator lights on the control panel for common issues:
- Misaligned Light: Indicates the shredder head is not properly seated on the waste bin. Lift and re-seat the shredder head until the light turns off.
- Overload Light: Indicates too many sheets of paper were inserted. Use the REVERSE (<<) mode to clear the jam, remove some sheets, and re-insert a smaller quantity.
- Overheat Light: Indicates the shredder has exceeded its maximum run time or is too hot. Unplug the shredder and allow it to cool down for 30 minutes.
- Power On Light: Indicates the shredder is powered on and ready for operation.
For more detailed troubleshooting, please refer to the official Troubleshooting Guide (PDF).
Specifications
| Brand | Amazon Basics |
| Model Number | AU860XA |
| Cut Type | Cross Cut |
| Sheet Capacity | 8 sheets (20 lb. paper) |
| Credit Card Shredding | Yes (one at a time) |
| Bin Capacity | 4.1 Gallons |
| Product Dimensions (LxWxH) | 12.8 x 7.3 x 15.9 inches |
| Item Weight | 8.27 pounds |
| Material Type | Plastic |
| Color | Black |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the official Warranty (PDF) document.
For customer service and support, please contact: 1-844-303-4344.
Ask a question about this manual
Ask about setup, troubleshooting, compatibility, parts, safety, or missing instructions. Manuals+ will review the question and use this page’s manual context to help answer it.







