Abstract: A reverse vending machine for comminuting plastic containers includes devices for identifying different sizes of container and bar codes at various locations on the container without manipulating the container. A container is dropped from a pivotable cradle end first and is physically engaged on diametrically opposite sides substantially simultaneously and forced into a mechanism for cutting the container into strips and then for cutting the strips into small pieces. The presence of the container, and the state and operation of the shredding apparatus, customer door, coin supply, and storage bins are continually monitored with appropriate action taken during operation.