Mill Size Baler Guide 2026

This guide explains what a MILL SIZE BALER is, outlining its main USEs, FEATURES and provides practical tips on how to buy A MILL SIZE BALER THAT fits your needs.

A Mill Size Baler can quickly and efficiently compact large volumes of waste into bales ready for recycling. This process not only reduces manual handling and waste disposal costs, but also offers the potential to turn your waste into revenue.

There are a wide variety of balers available on the market. If you plan to buy a mill size baler in 2026, this expert guide explains the main uses, features and factors you need to consider to help you buy a baler that meets the needs of your organisation.

What Is a Mill Size Baler and How Does It Work?

Mill Size Baler Definition

A Mill Size Baler, also known as a Mill Sized Baler, is a type of industrial waste baler powered by three phase electrical power. It is equipped with a powerful compaction plate that crushes waste vertically into large dense uniform bundles known as mill size bales. The uniformity of the bales produced enables them to be transported directly to a mill for recycling.

How a Mill Size Baler Works

Mill Size Balers work using the same principle as other sizes of Waste Baler. Recyclable waste is compacted within a crushing chamber until the bale is complete. The bales produced are large and heavy therefore they need to be held together with baler wires.

Mill Size Baler Common Uses

Mill Size Balers facilitate the compaction of waste in large business premises such as warehouses, factories and distribution centres. They are used to crush waste cardboard, paper, plastic, textiles and other soft materials into bales. 

Core Components of Mill Size Baler

1. Bale Chamber - You can fill the bale chamber through the loading aperture
2. Loading Door - You need to ensure this door is closed fully during the compaction process
3. Control Panel - This push button station is how the operator starts the compaction and bale ejection process
4. Pressing Plate - A large metal plate that travels upwards and downwards within the crushing chamber powered by a hydraulic ram.

FAQs

What Is The Difference between a MILL SIZE BALER and a WASTe BALER?

Both "mill size baler" and "waste baler" refer to waste compaction equipment; the difference lies in the size of the equipment. "Waste baler" is a more general term for machines that produce bales, whilst "mill size baler" is a specific size of waste baler that makes bales with certain dimensions and weights.

DO YOU NEED TRAINING TO OPERATE A MILL SIZE BALER?

Yes, all operators must have received comprehensive training before operating a baler. People operating a baler without prior training risk serious injury or death.

Quickfire Considerations for Choosing the Right Type of Mill Size Baler

By keeping the following factors top-of-mind, you can ensure you choose a machine to fulfil the needs of your organisation.

Size and Dimensions

Before purchasing a Mill Size Baler, make sure to check and double-check that the dimensions of the equipment are compatible with its envisioned location. This includes measuring both floorspace and ceiling height if you want to locate it inside. In some smaller warehouses, stock rooms and manufacturing sites, you may have to opt for a smaller size of vertical baler if you do not have sufficient space to install and operate it safely.

Ergonomics & Safety

You need to ensure that your chosen baler can handle the demands of your day-to-day operations without being overly complicated to use. A machine trial or demonstration can help you get first-hand experience of using one. You should also take the time to check the manual for the CE Declaration of Conformity to ensure it complies with current safety standards for vertical baling presses such as EN 16500:2014.

Power Requirements

If the power supply at the proposed installation location does not match the voltage stated in the manual you will not be able to start the machine therefore it is important that this is checked prior to delivery. Purchasing equipment from a reputable supplier can help to complete pre-delivery checks to ensure that the machine is installed without any issues.

Waste Type & Volume

You need to ensure you have enough waste to justify the expense of purchasing a baler of this size. A reputable baler supplier such as QCR, can help you calculate the amount of waste you need and your estimated ROI.

Budget

Finally, much like any other equipment purchase, your budget will influence the machine you choose. While the lowest-cost machine may seem appealing, it’s often more cost-effective in the long term to purchase a baler supplied with a warranty from a reputable supplier.  Take note of any delivery, installation and maintenane costs to avoid any nasty surprises. Consider a used or refurbished machine if you budget doesn't stretch to a brand new machine.

QCR's Mill Size Balers

QCR are a leading supplier of mill size balers in the UK. The QCR team provide a tailored quotations for both hiring and purchasing a baler following a free, no-obligation meeting at your workplace.