How Much Should a Cardboard Bale Weigh?

Bale weights are an important factor for any business using a cardboard baler.  This is because the weight of a bale influences the value and the manoeuvrability of the finished bale. Care must be taken to ensure the weight of the bales produced are an asset rather than a liability.

What Determines the Weight of a Bale?

• Bale Dimensions: In general, the larger the bale, the higher the bale weight
• Bale Density: Put simply, the higher the density, the heavier the bale will be
• Moisture Content: Baling damp cardboard material makes heavier bales than dry material
• Machine Operator: A well-trained baler operator is essential for producing evenly weighted bales

How Does Weight Effect the Value of a Cardboard Bale?

The value of a cardboard bale is linked to its weight. Mill Size Bales of cardboard are the heaviest type and therefore the most valuable. As a consequence of the weight of the bale, you need to use high quality bale tie material that is strong enough to withstand the outward pressure exerted by the compacted material.

What is the Average Weight of a Cardboard Bale?

The average weight of a cardboard bale is dependent on the model of Cardboard Baler used to make it. Small bales of cardboard can weigh as little as 40kg whereas larger mill size balers can produce bales with average weights of 500kg.  Most businesses do not need to know the exact weight bale produced therefore they do not need to source a machine an integrated bale scale.

What is the Average Price for a Cardboard Bale?

 

Like any commodity, the price of baled waste cardboard will rise and fall due to global demand. In early 2026, the value of baled cardboard fluctuates around £40-£150 per tonne. The value of a cardboard bale can be impacted by other factors including moisture content, quality (such as the presence of contamination), quantity and your location.

How does Bale Weight impact on Health & Safety?

The HSE states that employers must protect their workers from the risk of injury from making and moving bales therefore an onsite risk assessment and appropriate training should be undertaken prior to producing a bale of any weight.  It's very dangerous to cut the baler banding or wires on a tightly bound bale of any weight because it causes the cardboard to violently expand and burst outward. Sites with a baler installed should also clearly mark out a zone around the machine which employees should not enter when the machine is in operation.

Can Wet Cardboard be Added to Increase Bale Heaviness?

Wet cardboard within a bale is undesirable because the moisture can lead to mildew or mold growth which prevents it from being recycled. Wet, heavy bales of cardboard are also more difficult to transport because they have a higher risk of falling apart and damaging equipment. As a result, it’s important to keep cardboard bales away from any water sources and covered from the elements to prevent them from becoming a liability.  Waste segregation training sessions are essential to all employees to highlight the need to remove wet cardboard waste prior to baling. 

Shopping Cardboard Balers at QCR

With a wealth of awards and accreditations, as well as over 25 years of experience, QCR is a leading supplier of recycling equipment across the UK. From Recycling balers to heavy-duty cardboard shredders, we have everything your business needs for its waste solutions and more. From healthcare to education, hospitality to office buildings, we have solutions for all kinds of businesses.

Got a question regarding our services or one of our products? Get in touch with our team of experts via email or telephone and we’ll get back to you right away. 

Updated 01/06/2026