Cardboard Baler Guide 2026

Cardboard balers are a popular alternative to bins for recycling cardboard waste. If you work in retail, hospitality or manufacturing, recycling will be an important part of your waste management procedures. Managing large amounts of cardboard waste while staying legally compliant can be a challenge which is why many businesses choose to install a baler. This guide explains the due diligence required when sourcing a cardboard baler in 2026.

The purpose of a cardboard baler

Cardboard balers serve multiple functions, all aimed at facilitating cardboard recycling within the workplace:

✔  Legal compliance: Balers help businesses to fulfil their legal obligations relating to waste segregation

✔  Waste compaction: Balers mechanically compact cardboard box waste up to 85% 

✔  Cheaper recycling costs: Balers reduce the number of recycling bins needed to reduce overheads

How a cardboard baler works

A cardboard baler works by squashing cardboard waste and the air pockets around it to reduce volume. The compacted waste is then secured by wires or banding to form a bundle known as a bale. Different machine sizes and types are available including pneumatic, hydraulic or mill size so you can choose a machine to match your waste, space and budget.

Types of cardboard baler

• Pneumatic: These are the most basic and economical option, powered by an airline or a compressor. Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses that need a cost-effective solution.
• Hydraulic: These balers are powered by electricity and are available in a variety of different sizes and designs. This type of machine offers a middle ground between pneumatic and mill size machines.
• Mill Size: These balers are suitable for high-volume operations, with three phase power on site producing large amounts of waste. Designed to produce a standardised size of bale for possible revenue generation.
• Vertical: Fitted with a compaction plate that crushes material downwards. They're commonly installed in places where space is limited and waste production is intermittent. Larger machines are equipped with a bale ejection system to aid with the removal of the completed bale from inside the machine.
• Horizontal: Typically chosen by workplaces with a continuous flow of waste material such as recycling plants. Designed for compacting large amounts of waste into uniform bales.

Benefits of using a cardboard baler

• Health & safety compliance: Reduces the risk of injury from workers flattening box waste manually
• Operational efficiency: Crush large quantities of boxes in bulk
• Facilitating recycling: Offer an alternative to bins for cardboard recycling
• Revenue generation: Bales of cardboard meeting certain size and quality standards can be sold for recycling

Choosing the right cardboard baler

When selecting a cardboard baler, consider the following factors:

• Size & capacity: Ensure it matches the amount of waste produced
• Regulatory compliance: Ensure it meets current safety standards
• Ease of use: The baler should be easy to use and maintain
• Delivery & installation: Consider if you have the necessary space and expertise on board
• Operator training: Consider the H&S implications of installing new equipment at your site including RAMS
• Aftersales support: Ensure you have arranged for the equipment to be serviced and checked at regular intervals

You can remove the guesswork from sourcing a baler by signing up for a free trial from QCR.

Conclusion

Cardboard balers play a crucial role in workplace recycling but you need to choose your machine wisely. By understanding how they work, the different types available and the best practices for procurement, those looking to install a baler in 2026 can make informed decisions and achieve a faster ROI. Choosing the right baler for your workplace and keeping it well-maintained will ensure long-term efficiency and outstanding results.

Written by Neil Holland, Sales Director, QCR Recycling Equipment

Neil and the team at QCR supply cardboard balers to businesses in the UK. Balers can be hired, purchased or leased with both new and refurbished machines available with a warranty. QCR has distribution centres in Gloucestershire, Derbyshire and Devon.