Is a Mill Size Baler worth it?

There are many financial and environmental benefits of using a Mill Size Baler. Mill Size Baler specialists such as QCR, offer businesses across the UK free no-obligation waste baling advice and equipment recommendations tailored to their needs. Contact QCR to help you calculate if choosing a baler of this size would be worthwhile for your workplace.

What is a mill size baler?

A Mill Size Baler is the largest size of Vertical Waste Baler available in the UK. It uses powerful compaction forces to compress cardboard, paper, plastics, textiles and other similiar soft recyclable waste materials into dense bales that are held together by wires. Good quality bales can be sent directly to a recycling mill without the need for further processing.

 

 

How much is a Mill Size Baler?

The cost of a baler varies based on condition, size and technical features. In addition to the cost of the machine itself, those considering this type of equipment must also consider the cost of servicing, maintenance and baling wires needed. Many businesses have opted to install a baler of this size because of the opportunity to sell the bales made to subsidise the cost of the machine.

High quality Mill Size Balers are not cheap. To avoid paying more than is necessary, businesses in the UK should seek advice from an experienced baler installer to help them calculate if installing a baler of this size would be beneficial to them. For those on a tight budget, refurbished or used machines are available. A machine trial can help to answer how it will work in practice.

How does a Mill Size Baler benefit my business?

Installing a Mill Size Baler can help an organisation to save money, time and space on recycling waste materials. After the baler is installed, vast quantities of recyclable materials can be baled instead of being thrown away in bins or skips. This is why the process of baling contributes to a tidier work environment and supports sustainability goals. 

How much maintenance does waste baling machinery require?

Proper maintenance performed at regular intervals by a trained baler engineer ensures longevity and consistent bales. For safety, it is very important that only professional engineers carry out maintenance or service work. Failure to do so may result in injury to an employee or damage to your machine.

What do I need to consider?

• Waste volume - Balers of this size need consistent high quantities of waste to justify the investment. 
• Power supply - Balers of this type are fitted with a 5 pin 32 amp plug. Check you have the right type of power supply available.
• Space - Balers of this type require lots of space so they can be filled and the bales ejected safely. You will also need space to temporarily store your baled waste.
• Training - Operators must be fully trained to use equipment of this size. You'll also need to provide refresher training sessions every 3-5 years for all users.
• Waste type - Balers are not suitable for compacting pressurized containers, wood, glass or any solid materials.
• Bale collection - Ensure you have a registered recycler in place before you install the equipment who will collect your bales at regular intervals
• Bale movement - You'll need to check you have equipment to move the bales which typically weigh approximately 500kg+.

When investigating this type of waste machinery, we recommend you enlist the support of a professional baler installer certified by SafeContractor™ such as QCR. The QCR team can manage the process of installing a baler at your workplace from start to finish including the initial consultation, pre-delivery site survey, equipment delivery, installation at your premises and staff training. You'll get a fast, professional installation of a machine that fulfils your needs with minimal disruption. QCR are Mill Size Baler specialists with over 25 years experience of supplying new and refurbished waste baling equipment.

Written by Neil Holland, 08/12/2025

Neil helps businesses to lower their overheads and take control of their recycling with expertly delivered waste baling systems. Neil works with commercial clients across the UK to help them generate an income from selling bales of recyclable waste and reduce emissions to support decarbonisation targets. Book an appointment with Neil on 01242 620903.