Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation of your Amazon Basics 15-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper, CD, and Credit Card Shredder. Please read all instructions carefully before use and retain this manual for future reference.
Safety Information
To ensure safe operation, always adhere to the following guidelines:
- Keep hands, hair, and loose clothing away from the paper entry slot.
- Do not spray or keep any aerosol products in or around the shredder.
- Do not shred items like metallic credit cards, adhesive labels, or continuous forms.
- Unplug the shredder when not in use or before cleaning.
- Keep the shredder out of reach of children and pets.
- Do not operate the shredder if the power cord is damaged.
Product Overview
The Amazon Basics 15-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder is designed for efficient document destruction, offering a high level of security for personal and office use.

Figure 1: Front view of the Amazon Basics 15-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder.
Key Features:
- 15-Sheet Capacity: Shreds up to 15 sheets of 20 lb. paper at once.
- Cross-Cut Shredding: Shreds paper into 3/16" x 1-7/32" (4.7 x 31mm) particles for enhanced security (Security Level P-4).
- Multi-Material Shredding: Also destroys CD/DVDs, credit cards, staples, and small paper clips.
- Extended Run Time: Features a 20-minute continuous run time.
- Safety Features: Includes Overheat / Overload protection.
- LED Indicators: Provides visual alerts for Standby, Overheat, Overload, Door open, and Bin full status.
- Large Capacity Bin: Equipped with a 6-gallon pull-out basket for easy waste disposal.
- Mobility: Casters included for convenient movement.
- 4-Mode Switch: Auto/Off/Forward/Reverse settings for versatile control.

Figure 2: Diagram illustrating key features of the shredder.
Setup
Follow these steps to set up your shredder:
- Unpack: Carefully remove all components from the packaging.
- Position: Place the shredder on a flat, stable surface. Ensure the waste bin is securely closed and properly inserted into the main unit.
- Connect Power: Plug the power cord into a standard 120-volt AC outlet.
Video 1: Official product video demonstrating the setup and basic operation of the Amazon Basics 15-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder.
Operating Instructions
Power Mode Switch:
The shredder features a 4-mode slide switch located on the top panel:
- AUTO (I): The shredder will automatically start when paper is inserted and stop when shredding is complete. This is the recommended setting for normal use.
- OFF (O): Turns off all shredder functions. Always select this setting when emptying the waste bin or when the shredder is not in use.
- FORWARD (▶▶): Manually activates the shredder to continuously cut. Useful for clearing minor jams.
- REVERSE (◀◀): Reverses the shredder mechanism to help clear paper jams.

Figure 3: Close-up of the control panel with the 4-mode switch.
Shredding Paper:
- Ensure the power mode switch is set to AUTO (I).
- Insert up to 15 sheets of paper (20 lb. bond) straight into the paper entry slot. The shredder will automatically start and stop.
- Do not force paper into the shredder. If the shredder struggles, reduce the number of sheets.

Figure 4: Inserting paper into the shredder.
Shredding Credit Cards and CDs/DVDs:
- Ensure the power mode switch is set to AUTO (I).
- Insert one credit card or CD/DVD at a time into the dedicated slot.
- The shredder will automatically start and stop.

Figure 5: Shredding a credit card.
Maintenance
Emptying the Shredder Bin:
Regularly empty the waste bin to prevent paper jams and ensure optimal performance.
- Set the power mode switch to OFF (O) and unplug the shredder.
- Pull out the waste bin from the front of the shredder.
- Dispose of the shredded material.
- Slide the waste bin back into the shredder until it clicks securely into place.

Figure 6: Pull-out waste bin for easy emptying.
Oiling the Shredder:
To maintain the shredder's performance and longevity, it is recommended to oil the cutting blades periodically, especially after emptying the bin multiple times or if performance decreases.
- Apply shredder oil (or vegetable oil) in a zigzag pattern across the paper entry slot.
- Set the power mode switch to FORWARD (▶▶) for 2-3 seconds to distribute the oil.
- Then, set the switch to REVERSE (◀◀) for 2-3 seconds.
- Shred a few sheets of paper to remove any excess oil.
Troubleshooting
The shredder is equipped with LED indicators to help diagnose common issues:
- Standby (Green): Indicates the shredder is powered on and ready for operation.
- Overheat (Red): The shredder has exceeded its maximum operating temperature. Allow it to cool down for approximately 20-30 minutes before resuming use.
- Overload (Red): Too much material has been inserted. Use the REVERSE (◀◀) function to clear the jam, then reduce the amount of material.
- Door Open (Red): The waste bin is not properly closed or inserted. Ensure the bin is fully pushed in.
- Bin Full (Red): The waste bin is full and needs to be emptied.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Shredder does not turn on. | Not plugged in; Power switch in OFF position; Waste bin not properly inserted. | Check power connection; Set switch to AUTO; Re-insert waste bin securely. |
| Shredder stops during operation. | Overheat protection activated; Overload protection activated; Bin full. | Allow to cool down; Clear jam using REVERSE, then reduce material; Empty bin. |
| Paper jam. | Too much paper inserted; Paper inserted at an angle. | Use REVERSE function; Reduce paper quantity; Insert paper straight. |
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Amazon Basics |
| Model Number | PBH-49976 |
| Shred Type | Cross Cut |
| Shred Size | 3/16" x 1-7/32" (4.7 x 31mm) |
| Security Level | P-4 |
| Sheet Capacity | 15 sheets (20 lb. paper) |
| Continuous Run Time | 20 minutes |
| Cool-down Time | 30 minutes |
| Waste Bin Capacity | 6 Gallons |
| Item Weight | 22 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 11 x 14.4 x 20.9 inches |
| Color | Black |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or contact Amazon Basics customer service.
Customer Service: 1-844-303-4244
For additional resources, visit the Amazon Basics Store.





