01242 62090310 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Cardboard Baler
25th Jul 2025
Buying a baler for cardboard is a significant investment, but the wrong decision can cost far more than the purchase price. Over the past 25+ years in the cardboard baling industry, we've seen companies spend thousands of pounds fixing problems that could have been avoided simply by asking the right questions before sending a purchase order.
Whether you're buying a new, used or refurbished cardboard baler, these ten questions will help ensure you're making the best decision for your business.
1. Is this the right baler for my business?
2. How much space does it need?
One of the most misunderstood specifications on a baler is its size. A baler with a footprint of 1m² requires far more space than just 1m² to function. You'll also need to factor in the additional space needed to inspect it, load it with cardboard and eject the bales. Always ask the supplier to detail how much space is needed to use it under real operating conditions. If they're a true expert, they'll be able to respond straight away. If they don't, they're likely to just be a dealer.
3. How is the machine powered?
Cardboard balers can be powered by either single-phase electric, three-phase electric or compressed air therefore choosing whether you buy a hydraulic or pneumatic machine is likely to be swayed by the utilities at your premises. If you produce lots of waste, you’ll need a three-phase hydraulic machine because there are no air-powered mill size balers available.
4. Are baler training sessions included?
Regular baler training sessions are essential for legal compliance, workplace safety and accident prevention. Nothing beats a training session hosted at your premises delivered by a competent professional. When negotaiting a price, insist that in-person training sessions are supplied as part of the deal. Also check that the machine is supplied with a comprehensive manual written in English.
5. What size of bales will it produce?
This question is often overlooked. Bale size directly effects bale manoeuvrability and the amount of waste you need to make them. Whilst smaller bales are easier to move, larger bales are more valuable. Before you buy a machine ensure you’ve got the appropriate lifting equipment at your premises to move, stack and store your bales safely.
6. Has the machine been expertly refurbished - or just repainted?
Used or refurbished baler are cheaper than buying a new machine and are a great option if you’re on a budget. But, not every "refurbished" baler receives the same level of work. Ask exactly what the machine preparation process involved. Was it mechanically checked by a competent person or was it simply pressure washed and repainted? Understanding the refurbishment process and the warranty that's supplied with can prevent expensive surprises later on.
7. Who will service it after the sale?
Regular equipment servicing is crucial for both the safety of your team and to remain compliant with workplace legislation such as PUWER. This service can provided by the seller or an external contractor but only if they have the necessary expertise. Get servicing agreements in place before you buy the equipment to avoid a last minute panic. If the equipment will be essential to your operations, breakdown cover should be considered to keep disruption at your premises to a minimum in the event of a problem. You’ll also need to add the machine to your business insurance.
8. How much does a baler cost?
Budgets for purchasing equipment must extend beyond the advertised price. The lowest priced machine isn't always the best financial decision. You also need to budget for delivery, installation, commissioning, staff training, energy use, consumables and servicing which can inflate the costs of ownership. Calculating the total cost of ownership (TTO) over the expected lifecycle of your baler will help you decide if you can afford to buy and maintain a machine. If the initial investment is too high, consider baler rental instead because it encompasses many variables in one fixed monthly cost.
Top Tip: Read more here Cardboard Baler Hire vs. Purchase
9. Are replacement parts readily available?
A good quality baler will last at least 10 years so it's likely that you'll need to replace one or two components during that time. Buying from a vendor that isn't a specialist supplier of balers can make obtaining spare parts difficult. Instead choose a company that offers easy access to parts to reduce downtime.
10. Am I buying from someone I trust?
A specialist baler supplier with a large inventory will offer you a number of machine options, discuss alternatives, explain trade-offs and continue to support you long after it's installed. Buying from a trusted seller that offers a warranty can help to offset the risks associated with buying older equipment. Also consider the credentials of the people who will be delivering, installing and commissioning the baler. Membership of third party supplier schemes such as SafeContractor™ provide additional reassurance to the purchaser. Risk assessments and method statements are needed therefore buying from a reputable seller offers many advantages over buying from an unknown seller from an auction.
Final thoughts
The best cardboard baler isn't always the cheapest or newest option. It's the baler that best fits your application with access to a support team who can guarantee reliable performance for years to come.
Contact QCR, the UK’s Independent Cardboard Baler Specialists
QCR Recycling Equipment are a long-standing supplier of cardboard balers supplying them UK businesses since 1999. We have models for hire or purchase, and our SafeContractor-accredited team are on hand to help you choose the best option, install it and train your team. Contact us to arrange a free, no-obligation visit by our waste experts.
Author: Neil Holland. Article reviewed 28/07/26
Neil has over 20 years of experience in the waste and recycling industry and is passiona
