How to Choose the Right Cardboard Baler Size

Cardboard balers are available in many different shapes and sizes. It is important you select the right machine size and type for your business to ensure you achieve the best return from it in terms of space, cost and time. There is no set formula to identify which is the best machine size for you, so we’d always recommend asking a baler specialist with a broad range of machines available to help you choose.

Assess Your Business's Cardboard Waste Volume

If you are currently using recycling bins for your cardboard, you can calculate how many bins you fill each week to help you narrow down your options. You should also note whether you are currently squashing boxes before they are placed in bins, or you put them in whole. The dimensions of the boxes you most commonly throw away should be measured. This is because the opening size of balers varies greatly so you’ll get a more efficient outcome if you select a machine with the box size in mind.

Consider the Space You Have

If space is an issue, a vertical baler is likely to be your best option. These machines take up less floorspace than horizontal equivalents. You can also choose a short height vertical baler if the ceiling height is low such as the QCR H3 Baler (Low Height).

Cardboard bales are heavy therefore you’ll need to consider whether you have suitable lifting equipment to stack them up safely if space is tight. You’ll also need to consider the access point at your premises so the Recycler can collect them without causing disruption to your team.

Unlike baling equipment, it’s important your bales of recyclable material are kept dry and remain uncontaminated. However, this doesn’t necessarily rule-out baling if you do not have a sheltered spot available because some companies successfully store bales outside under a tarpaulin and on a pallet.

Discuss How Often You Have Cardboard Waste

Be careful not to immediately rule out a baler if you do not dispose of large amounts of cardboard because they can also be used to bale polythene and many other types of plastic. This is why we always advocate involving a baler expert at the start of the decision process because unless you work in the industry, you may not be familiar with the broad range of waste compactors that are available. A free waste survey with a reputable supplier such as QCR can be the first step to transform the way you handle your business waste.

Cardboard Waste Bale Collection

For the process to work smoothly, you need to make sure you have an appointed reliable collector for your cardboard bales. This will ensure they are collected regularly, you receive a fair price (if applicable) and you are supplied with the correct paperwork for your records. Although a quick internet search will display numerous options, it is important you select a trusted company. As with domestic waste, if waste is disposed of incorrectly and bears your company name, the subsequent fines will need to be paid by you. Every purchaser of a baler from QCR, will be introduced to a reliable cardboard bale collection company taking the uncertainty out of this part of the process.

Cost Efficiency

Cardboard bales are valuable. To get the best prices for your bales they need to be produced in sufficient quantities and of an agreed standard with regards to quality, size and moisture content. A mill size machine can help you turn cardboard into cash, but you’ll need to be sure the higher value of your bales will help to offset the higher price tag of this size of baler. This is where a reputable cardboard baler specialist can help you do the maths and make the right decision for your business.

Don’t overlook the option of renting a baler instead of rushing to buy a new one. QCR Recycling Equipment offer a competitive nationwide baler rental service which includes free delivery (unloading required), free breakdown cover and free ongoing staff training.

Consider Future Growth

If you think your business is likely produce more commercial waste in the future, hiring a baler is often a better option than purchasing outright. This is because when your business is ready for a larger machine, you can make the required machine changeover much quicker. At QCR, you can upgrade the size of your baler mid-contract making it a flexible choice for businesses with a strong desire to grow.

Contact QCR for Your Cardboard Baler Needs

With over 25 years’ experience, we’re a leading supplier of cardboard recycling machinery for the workplace in the UK. At QCR, we have a wide range of cardboard balers to either buy or rent. We have solutions for other common types of business waste such as polystyrene, glass bottles, empty drums and used paint cans.

If you’re unsure about what size baler you need, or you have any questions, our expert and friendly team can give you advice. We can do a free confidential visit to your site with no obligation to rent or purchase if you feel this would be helpful. We also offer free machine trials in most cases so you can see if a certain baler is right for you. Our team are Safe Contractor accredited as well for added peace of mind.