Business Waste

Waste Baler Machine Hire

A baler is a machine that compresses recyclable waste materials into compact and rectangular bales. Different types of balers are available, and each machine has a press of varying forces that push rubbish together into blocks. This reduces the volume of waste materials produced, which makes it easier to store, transport, and recycle.

Businesses that create lots of paper, cardboard, plastic, and other recyclable rubbish benefit most from using a baler machine. Baling machines are important for waste management as they:

  • Save space – a bale of cardboard or plastic takes up less floor space than bins or skips with no need for a container for storage.
  • Increases recycling – sorting waste streams onsite is easier, which improves recycling rates and reduces general waste.
  • Improves transport efficiency – bales are easier to move and take up less space, ensuring more waste can be removed at once.
  • Reduces costs – compact bale sizes mean transport costs are less and waste collections are less frequent.
  • Help the environment – fewer collections and more efficient waste transportation uses less fuel, cutting carbon emissions.

Find a baler for hire and arrange delivery and collection to and from your premises anywhere in the UK with Business Waste. Book baler hire for your organisation and get rid of recyclable waste in a cost-effective and green way – call 0800 211 8390 or contact us online for a free quote.

Collection Frequency:
One-off, daily, weekly, fortnightly, or ad hoc collection
Waste Type:
  • Cardboard Waste
  • Confidential Waste
  • Dry Mixed Recycling (DMR)
  • Glass Waste
  • Paper Waste
  • Plastic Waste

Get a FREE quote for baler hire in the UK

Get a quote

Features of baler machines

Baler machines are made of a steel frame with internal or external cylinders, and a hydraulic ram powered by an electric motor-driven pump. When waste is placed in the chamber and the baler machine is turned on it pumps hydraulic oil under pressure to the cylinder. This moves the ram against the waste material being baled.

The two main types of baler machines are vertical and horizontal balers. Vertical balers are smaller and the ram pushes the waste down from above. Horizontal balers are much larger and suit businesses that create at least 2,000kg of cardboard or plastic waste daily. Waste is placed in the chamber and the ram (or rams) flatten it from the side.

Baling machines can also be either automatic or semi-automatic. Automatic balers compress the waste and wire together the bale, so no manual labour is required. Semi-automatic balers compress the materials into a block, but the operator must prepare it with wire to tie it together before the bale is ejected.

In the UK, the most common baler power supplies are 380V/50Hz/3 Phase and 415V/50Hz/3 Phase. The power supply for balers depends on their size and varies by region:

  • Small balers run on Single Phase or 3 Phase Electrical Power
  • Big balers run on 3 Phase Electrical Power

To protect operators and workers all balers should include safety features including machine guards and safety interlocks. The safety interlock device automatically stops the baler from working if a worker tries to access a ram or the travel zone of the ram when the baling machine is operating.

Modern balers feature point-of-operation guards. These prevent workers from reaching into a baling machine when it’s operating. The interlocked control systems stop or reverse the ram’s motion if the compression chamber doors are opened. All emergency stop devices should be interconnected so the complete baler machine shuts down even if only one is pressed.

Learn how a recycling baler works

Types and sizes 
of baling machines

There are many different types of baling machines. Each one compresses recyclable waste into solid bales, but some may suit your business better than others depending on the kind and amount of waste you generate. Common types, the general sizes and capacities of baling machines include:

  • Vertical balers – these use a vertical force to compress waste. These are the smallest balers available that can create bales between 30 and 100kg from various waste types, such as corrugated cardboard, plastics, and textiles.
  • Horizontal balers – waste is squashed horizontally, so a horizontal baler needs more floor space than a vertical one. They operate quickly and are often used by organisations that generate a high volume of waste. Horizontal balers create bales of between 400 and 1,200kg (depending on their size).
  • Mill balers – also known simply as large balers, these are big, fully automatic, industrial balers. Often used to compress cardboard and plastic and deal with a high capacity that creates bales between 300 and 500kg.
  • Single ram closed door balers – ideal for corrugated card, paper trim, and confidential waste. They can compact other materials.
  • Multi-material closed door balers – these balers are often used by businesses producing a medium volume of waste. They can process a wide variety of materials including plastics, metal cans, and textiles.

Our expert team can advise on the best baler for hire that suits your business. Call 0800 211 8390 or contact us online for help with the best baler for your business.

three bales of cardboard on pallets.
Balers can reduce cardboard waste volume by 90%

Benefits of using 
baler machines

The main benefits of using baler machines in your business are:

  • Reduction in waste volume – the main benefit of a baler machine is to significantly reduce the volume of waste. For example, balers can reduce the volume of cardboard by 90%. This saves space and time for businesses that produce high volumes of compactable waste, making it easier to manage for efficient storage.
  • Efficient waste management – using a baler helps businesses separate waste types effectively, such as cardboard, paper, plastic, and some metals. This reduces the chance of contamination during waste storage onsite and ensures as much as possible is recycled.
  • Cheaper storage and collection costs – reducing the volume of waste means you need less storage space and can keep it onsite for longer. There’s no need for skip hire or lots of bins and big containers, which can be more expensive. In turn, you can arrange less frequent waste collections to make further savings.
  • Improved workplace safety – as baled waste takes up less space it reduces the risk of accidents from rubbish piling up on your site. Overflowing bins, heaps of cardboard, and excess rubbish can create a health hazard with the risk of falling on workers. Balers are fitted with safety features and should only be worked by trained operatives too.
  • Environmental benefits – using a baler separates your rubbish effectively, ensuring as much as possible is recycled. This reduces the amount of waste sent to landfill and means you pay less landfill tax. With fewer waste collections needed for baled waste compared to using skips, bins, and other containers, less fuel is required, and carbon emissions released, for your waste management.

How to choose the 
right baler machine

The best baler machine for your operations will depend on the type and amount of waste you produce and how often. There are a few other important factors to consider that can help you choose the right baler machine for your organisation. These include:

  • Size and space – first, you need to work out where the baler will go and how much floor space is available for it. You should also consider how much space there is for the baled waste and how long they’ll be onsite before collection, to ensure there’s enough room for both the baler and what it produces.
  • Capacity – the amount of waste you produce that needs baling also impacts the best size and type of baler. Determine the volume of waste you create and how often you’ll use the baler. Vertical balers suit businesses that need to bale smaller volumes of rubbish or less frequently, while horizontal balers have much larger capacities.
  • Power capacity – the type and volume of waste you need to bale affects the best power capacity. For heavy materials such as scrap metals, you’ll need a baler machine with a greater power supply and capacity than for cardboard or paper waste, for example.
  • Automation – balers can be semi or fully automatic. A semi-automatic baler requires additional training and manual labour to wire the bale, while a fully automatic baler provides complete convenience to save time.
  • Energy efficiency – balers use a lot of energy as they’re heavy-duty machines that may run for a long time. This can result in expensive electricity bills. Check the energy efficiency ratings to work out how much it may cost to run.
  • Budget – before you look at a baler for sale or hire decide on your budget, as this will impact the size and types of baler machines that you can realistically afford to use. Work out how regularly you’ll use it and if buying or hiring a baler is best.

The types of waste materials you need to bale also helps you choose the right baling machine for your business. These include:

Plastic Baler Machines

A plastic baler compacts many types of waste plastic into a dense block. You can put soft plastics (such as plastic bags and packaging) and hard plastics (like plastic bottles) into a plastic baler. Both vertical and horizontal plastic balers are available to deal with various volumes of plastic waste.

Cardboard Baler Machines

Use a cardboard baler to compress everything from boxes and sheets to tubes, fibreboard, and paperboard. A baler for cardboard can reduce the volume of waste by up to 90% in some cases. Many vertical cardboard baler machines are available to crush cardboard, while horizontal cardboard balers compact large amounts of waste cardboard.

Aluminium Baler Machines

Place clean and dry empty drinks cans, foil, and similar scrap metal in an aluminium baler machine to compress waste together. Heavy-duty aluminium balers provide effective solutions to compact cans into a tight block for easier handling and transportation. Each aluminium bale is then recycled.

Paper Baler Machines

Many types of waste paper can be put in paper balers and compressed into a solid bale. This includes office paper, envelopes, printer paper, newspapers, and paper sheets of any colour. Vertical and horizontal paper balers push paper together into one block that significantly reduces its volume to save space.

Why choose Business Waste 
for your baler hire?

Hire a baler anywhere in the UK today with Business Waste. Our nationwide network means we can find and arrange delivery of a baler machine of many sizes and types to your organisation. Arrange everything from cardboard baler hire to vertical baler rental that suits your needs and budget.

Our friendly and expert team can advise on the best baler for you and answer any questions you have about baler hire. After delivery, you can start baling your recyclable waste and arrange collection from a licensed waste carrier with Business Waste on a schedule that suits you.

Get a free quote today and see the costs tailored to your needs, based on the type and size of the waste baler machine, your location and collection schedule. Complete the below form, contact us online or call 0800 211 8390.

bales of plastic waste stacked up.
“Really helpful and kind customer service, sorted my business needs effectively and quickly whilst also offering useful suggestions.”
Jem, UK
free bins icon.

Get a free baler hire quote

Get a fast FREE quote for your baler hire

  • Free quote within 1 hr
  • Any type of recyclable waste
  • FREE bins and delivery
  • We cover all of the UK

Baler Machine Hire FAQs

  • What is the difference between a baler and a compactor?

    Balers differ from compactors as they only deal with recyclable waste, whereas a compactor can crush general waste and other non-recyclable rubbish. If you produce lots of waste but it’s not recyclable, then you may need a compactor instead.

    Explore waste compactors

  • What is a recycling baler?

    A recycling baler is designed to simplify the recycling process of waste items such as aluminium, paper, plastic, cardboard, and glass by compressing these materials into blocks. The blocks created by a recycling baler ensure recyclable materials are much easier to store, transport and process.

  • How do recycling balers work?

    Every style of baler has its unique instructions, but most recycling balers work similarly:

    • First, feed the bale strapping into the machine before adding the chosen recyclable waste material into the chamber.
    • Close and lock the door to the baler to start the machine.
    • The baler then uses extreme pressure within the chamber to compress the waste into a small, tight block – a bale. The size of this bale depends on the machine’s size.
    • Further material can typically be added to the baler between compressions to ensure the bale capacity is reached.
    • Once the maximum volume of material has been compressed, providing the strapping has been tied, the removal of material is simple and ready for further processing.
  • What are the different baler sizes?

    Balers are available in many sizes. Some common baler sizes include:

    Mill and large balers

    Large balers are often fully automatic, suiting industrial businesses with complex and consistent recycling needs. Mill-sized balers are ideal for cardboard and plastic and help to reduce storage space thanks to their higher capacity. They typically use a hydraulic ram to compress the chamber contents.

    Mobile and portable balers

    Portable balers are suited for businesses with flexible requirements. Their mobility ensures industries such as hospitality benefit from the ability to move them around their premises for use at different points. Mobile balers also save money in terms of transportation and storage requirements.

    Mini and small balers

    Ideal for small businesses, mini balers are much smaller than their industrial counterparts and are usually simpler to operate. They’re lightweight and easy to manage, often featuring refrigerator-style doors for ease of use. Mini balers produce very small bales.

    Vertical balers

    Vertical balers compress waste with a vertical force. They’re often chosen for their smaller footprint, taking up less floor space compared to a horizontal baler. They’re often cheaper, too, and can process various waste materials depending on the model. Some more sophisticated vertical balers will crush specialised materials, such as coffee cups and storage drums.

    Vertical balers are a perfect waste solution for medium-sized businesses, such as nursing homes, hotels, and convenience stores.

    Horizontal balers

    Horizontal balers squash waste horizontally, pushing the material from either side instead of downwards. This type of baler is ideal for large commercial businesses needing to crush a high volume of waste quickly. Horizontal balers are also chosen for their consistency, producing waste blocks of equal size and shape, even when operated at speed.

    Horizontal balers can work with other industrial machineries, such as conveyor belts and shredders, helping to speed up the waste disposal process. They’re often used for packaging waste, old newspapers, cardboard, and other non-elastic waste items.

  • What are the different bale sizes?

    The production of bale sizes depends on the size and type of baler you use. For example, the largest, mill-sized balers can produce cardboard bales weighing more than 500kg. At the other end of the scale, mini balers can produce cardboard bales of just 29kg. It depends on an individual company’s recycling needs and throughput.

  • What type of waste can a recycling baler bale?

    Industrial recycling balers are designed to bale all sorts of recyclable waste. This includes industrial and commercial waste such as:

    The type of baler you choose determines what waste you can compact. So, make sure to do your research before purchasing or hiring a baler.

  • Why would you use a recycling baler?

    Balers and compactors are increasingly necessary for businesses looking to expand their recycling and waste disposal processes while looking to save money and space. The surface area they take up far outweighs the space existing, pre-baled recycling or pre-compacted waste occupies. Balers ensure that the removal process of recycling and general waste is more fluid, thanks to baled waste’s ease of transportation.

  • Who uses recycling balers?

    Recycling balers are used in every industry imaginable, spanning retailers and food producers to manufacturers, hospitality, and distribution centres. Recycling and waste companies use them to streamline their disposal processes. Balers are suited to all business sizes, so even independent retail stores benefit from what a baler offer in terms of space and cost-saving benefits.

  • What is the ram on a baler?

    The ram capability on a baler refers to the pressure of the ram held inside the machinery – the stronger the ram, the more it can crush. If you’re crushing tougher materials like metal and plastic, you’ll want to choose a ram with higher compression to avoid springing waste.

    Balers are available in 2000, 2300, or 5000 lbs. of ram force. They range from 12 to 18 inches wide, 18 to 24.5 inches deep, and 34 to 36 inches high.

    It’s important to be wary of the safety requirements for high ram balers. The force applied to materials such as plastic and glass could cause springing and shattering during the compacting process. Always wear the correct safety equipment, including goggles for eye protection.

  • How long does it take to bale waste?

    How long it takes for your baler to crush your waste depends on the size and strength of the machine and the type and amount of waste you want to compress. This also affects the cycle time of baling. If you have a mill-sized baler, for example, the baling process may well be on an industrial scale, meaning ongoing compressing during business operation times.

  • What type of power outlet is required for a baler?

    The type of power outlet you need for a baler depends on the model of baler you use. It varies hugely depending on the baler size. Speak to the manufacturer and look through the model specs before connecting any baler to a power outlet to ensure it’s correct.

  • How much does it cost to buy a baler machine?

    The cost of a baler depends on the size, type, condition, manufacturer, and where it’s purchased. Generally, smaller balers are cheaper. A new vertical cardboard baler can cost from around £3,000 upwards. Large horizontal balers can upwards of around £20,000. You can buy second-hand balers for a cheaper choice.

  • What are the maintenance requirements for a baler machine?

    The exact maintenance requirements for a baler depend on the specific machine and should be included in the operating manual and any training provided. General good practice for baler maintenance includes to:

    • Train operators to use and maintain the baler properly and safely.
    • Follow the manufacturer’s checklist for monthly, quarterly, and annual checks and maintenance tasks.
    • Clean debris inside and outside the baler – especially around the ram(s), sensors, and oil cooler.
    • Sample the oil used in the baler every 1,200 operating hours and change the baler’s oil and air filters every 950 hours.
    • Examine the baler’s wear parts every 1,000 to 1,500 hours of use. This includes the liners and auto tiers and repairing or replacing them if required.
    • Keep detailed maintenance records about the baling machinery, including oil analysis and cleaning reports.
  • Can a baler machine be used to bale hazardous materials?

    Most balers cannot be used to bale hazardous waste materials and are designed to compact dry mixed recycling such as paper, cardboard, and plastics. However, there are specialist hazardous waste compactors available that are designed to compress soft hazardous materials like contaminated gloves, masks, and paper tissues.

    Speak to one of our expert team about balers and compactors for hazardous materials – call 0800 211 8390 or contact us online.

  • What is the lifespan of a typical baler machine?

    The lifespan of a typical baler machine is between 10 and 15 years. This depends on their use, maintenance, and manufacturing quality. Well-built and maintained baler machines can have a lifespan longer than 15 years. Those used less frequently may also last for longer.

  • What are the safety measures that need to be taken when using a baler machine?

    Key safety measures to take when using a baler machine are to:

    • Wear appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), such as safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toe shoes.
    • Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and safety rules, as well as any business policies and procedures.
    • Inspect the baler before use and observe any locks or tags placed on it by maintenance personnel.
    • Stand away from the front of the baler during operation.
    • Ensure the sharp (cut) end of the baling wire is facing down when using it to avoid cuts.
    • Use assistance when moving the bale to avoid back injury – or unload onto a pallet and move using a pallet jack.
    • Remove the key from the switch when finished.
    • Clean the baler and surrounding floor surface after use to avoid slips and falls.
  • Is training required to operate a baler machine?

    Training is required for anyone to operate a baler machine. It ensures operators use the baling machinery safely and properly to get the best possible results and minimise the chance of accidents. Operator misuse can cause injury and baler breakdown. Proper training helps reduce baler downtime and incidents.

    You might be able to provide baler training in-house or use a third party to deliver professional baler training. Important topics to cover include health and safety requirements, equipment, understanding parts, cleaning a baler, instrumentation and controls, and baler machine operation.

  • What are the environmental benefits of using a baler machine for waste management?

    The environmental benefits of using a baler machine for waste management are all because it reduces the volume of waste. This saves storage space for businesses, which means more rubbish can be kept onsite for longer and waste collections organised less frequently. In turn, this uses less fuel for waste removal, meaning fewer carbon emissions are released.

    Using a baler machine also helps businesses sort and separate recyclable rubbish before collection, which reduces the chance of contamination. This boosts recycling rates and reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfill. Therefore, your waste management avoids adding to air, ground, and water pollution levels caused by landfill waste.

  • How much space is required for a baler machine to operate effectively?

    The amount of space you need for a baler to work effectively depends on the size and type of the baler. Generally, you need enough space to walk around the baler, open the chamber door and put in waste, and remove the bales. This should all be possible without blocking any doors or windows in the room.

    A baler machine should be placed near where waste is produced and along the path that rubbish follows through your premises. For many organisations, this is in a warehouse, bin area, or at the end of a production line.

  • Can a baler machine be rented for short-term or long-term use?

    Baler machines can be rented for both short and long-term use. This provides an affordable option for organisations that don’t need or want to buy a baler, or only need temporary use. Rental terms for baling machines can vary from a couple of weeks to a few years.

    When renting a baler, you’ll need to factor in time to transport and install the baler. Baler leasing is also possible, with some lease-to-own options available here you make regular payments over a set period and own the baler when the final payment is made.

  • What are the rental rates for baler machines? And what factors affect the cost?

    Rental rates for baler machines vary depending on the size, type, manufacturer, rental company, and location. The rental terms and length also affect the price. For example, some companies rent mini vertical balers for just £20 (+ VAT) per week. However, there are other costs to consider beyond the baler rental rates.

    Transportation and installation costs, as well as the collection of any waste bales also need factoring in. Call 0800 211 8390 or contact us online for a free quote for baler hire anywhere in the UK with Business Waste.

  • What are the delivery and pickup options for baler machine rentals?

    Most balers are delivered on a trailer due to their size. Once a rental agreement is in place we’ll work to establish a date and time to deliver the baler to your premises. You’ll know in advance to have time to clear the space and ensure the delivery fits in with your operations.

    You can book collections of waste bales of cardboard, plastic, metals, and other recyclables on a daily, weekly, or fortnightly basis. Once your baler rental period ends we’ll arrange pickup of the baler machine at a suitable time and date.

  • What is the process for scheduling and booking a baler machine rental?

    To schedule and book a baler machine rental anywhere in the UK, follow this process:

    • Call 0800 211 8390 or contact us online for a free quote to rent a baler.
    • Provide details about the type and size of baler you need. If you’re unsure, let us know the types and amount of waste you want to put in a baler and one of our experts will advise on the best baler for you.
    • We’ll ask for further information such as your address, when you want the baler delivered, how long you’ll use it for, and how often you need bales collecting.
    • Then we’ll provide a free tailored quote based on your needs with no obligation.
    • If you’re happy with the price, we’ll book your baler machine rental to start from a suitable date. We’ll work to schedule delivery of the baler and waste collections and provide all relevant paperwork.
  • Can a baler machine be customised to fit specific needs or requirements?

    Some manufacturers of baling machines can build custom models to suit the specific needs of businesses. Experts can assess your premises and needs, plan a solution, discuss the costs, build a custom baler machine, and install it. A customised baler is normally more expensive than buying or renting another baler due to the extra time and effort required.

  • How can I find a reliable and reputable company that offers baler machine rentals and services?

    The easiest way to find a reliable company that offers baler machine rentals is to check the reviews online. See where they offer baler machine services and read the reviews on sites such as Trustpilot to get a feel for the company. Using established firms also ensures you use a reputable business to meet your baler needs.

    Get in touch with Business Waste for help finding a reliable and reputable company that provides baler rentals. Call 0800 211 8390 or contact us online today.

Find the right bin for 
your business waste

All waste types
  • All waste types
  • Cardboard Waste
  • Clinical Waste
  • Confidential Waste
  • Dry Mixed Recycling (DMR)
  • Food Waste
  • Garden Waste
  • General Waste
  • Glass Waste
  • Hazardous Waste
  • Liquid Waste
  • Oil Waste
  • Paper Waste
  • Plastic Waste
  • Sanitary Waste
  • WEEE Waste
  • 2yd dumpster

    The standard size wheelie bin you have at home that holds three to four bags of waste.

    green waste
  • 4yd dumpster

    This is the largest two-wheel bin available to store five or six waste bags.

    green waste
  • 6yd dumpser

    A four-wheel bin suitable for larger volumes of general waste and dry mixed recycling.

    wheelie bin.
  • 8yd dumpser

    The 1100 litre bin is the largest wheelie bin available to store up to 18 bags of waste.

    wheelie bin.
  • Balers

    Static balers compress recyclable waste into solid bales to save space.

    general waste
  • Clinical infectious waste bags

    Orange clinical waste bags are for materials contaminated with infectious waste.

    CLINICAL WASTE
  • Clinical waste bags

    Clinical waste bags to store medical waste safely before collection and disposal.

    CLINICAL WASTE
  • Clinical Waste Bins

    Clinical waste bins are suitable containers to store all sorts of medical waste safely.

    CLINICAL WASTE
  • Commercial Bin Sizes

    Read our helpful guide to commercial bin sizes, dimensions, and measurements

    green waste
  • Compactors

    Choose from mobile and static compactors for general waste or recyclable rubbish.

    packaging waste
  • Confidential Waste Bags and Bins

    Confidential waste bags provide a secure and flexible way to store sensitive documents before disposal.

    Confidential waste
  • Dental (amalgam) waste bins

    White clinical waste bins for dental waste including unwanted and excess amalgam.

    Dental waste
  • IBC containers

    Store high volumes of liquid waste including chemicals, solvents, and hazardous waste.

    IBC
  • Large Commercial Waste Bins

    A large bin offers a cost-effective way to store and dispose of commercial waste.

    green waste
  • Office Bins

    Different types of general waste and recycling bins for offices in various sizes.

  • Roll on roll offs

    One of the largest containers for business waste that can store up to 440 bags of waste.

    industrial waste
  • Sanitary waste bins

    Safely store feminine hygiene products and other sanitary waste with various bin sizes.

    SANITARY waste
  • Sharps bins

    Use sharps bins with different coloured lids for needles, syringes, scalpels, and knives.

    MEDICAL WASTE
  • Waste drums

    Drums and barrels are ideal to safely store liquid, oil, and hazardous waste for collection.

  • Wheelie Bins

    Explore a range of two and four-wheel bins for many waste types.

    green waste


free bins icon.

Get a fast and free quote

Get a fast FREE quote for your baler hire

  • Free quote within 1 hr
  • Any type of recyclable waste
  • FREE bins and delivery
  • We cover all of the UK