How much does a bale of cardboard weigh?

The average weight of a mill-size cardboard bale is about 889–1,667 lb (400–750 kg). Heavy-duty vertical balers produce these cardboard bales, which measure approximately 60 x 30 x‌‌ 42 inches. The exact weight depends on compaction, the cardboard type, and moisture content.

Learn about cardboard bales and what affects their weight, and partner with Baling Wire Direct for premium US-made cardboard baling wire.

How does bale size affect weight?

Cardboard bale weight is based on size, which is determined by baler type. Here is a comparison of common cardboard bale categories:

Bale size	Weight range	Dimensions (inches)	Baler type
Small	67–133 lb (30–60 kg)	31.5 x 23.6 x 23.6	Light-duty vertical
Medium	444–778 lb (200–350 kg)	47.2 x 31.5 x 31.5	Medium-duty vertical
Large (mill-size)	889–1,667 lb (400–750 kg)	59.1 x 31.5 x 43.3	Heavy-duty vertical

How does the baler affect weight? 

Horizontal, automatic balerswith two rams create the densest, heaviest bales. Automated systems apply consistent pressure (e.g., 110,000 lb press force) to produce tight bales with minimal air gaps.

Vertical cardboard balers

Vertical baler machines produce smaller, lighter bales (67–1,667 lb) for low-to-medium volume operations. These compact machines use vertical hydraulic presses to compress cardboard. Their small chambers and presses produce smaller, less dense bales.

Horizontal cardboard balers

Horizontal, industrial balers handle high volumes and generate larger, heavier bales (up to about 2,200 lb). The high press force of horizontal balers compacts cardboard tightly, which maximizes density and reduces transportation costs.

Does all cardboard weigh the same?

Cardboard is a catch-all term for many paper products. Its weight varies based on its composition, condition, and processing. Here's how these properties affect the weight of cardboard bales:

• Material differences: Corrugated cardboard has a layered structure and weighs more than a flat type of cardboard. The air pockets in corrugated do reduce density, but the total paper mass (liners + fluting) often exceeds that of single-layer flat cardboard.
• Moisture content: Cardboard can absorb water. Wet cardboard can weigh up to 15% more, which complicates cardboard recycling efforts.
• Contamination: Mixed materials (plastic, tape) increase weight but reduce recycling value.

Recyclers should store baled and unbaled cardboard in a dry area to avoid unnecessarily increasing the bale weight and transportation costs.

What gauge baling wire is best for cardboard?

The baling wire gauge you should use to bale cardboard depends on two factors:

1. Number of wires your baler uses (typically 3 or 4).
2. Bale weight (heavier bales require stronger wire).

When tying cardboard bales with wires, the combined load strength of all wires must exceed the bale’s weight to prevent breakage. Since thinner wire is cheaper, businesses should shop for the thinnest baling wire that safely supports their bales. For example, a 1,200-lb bale made by a 3-wire cardboard baler could use an 11 gauge wire since:

3 (# of wires) x 735 (load strength of 11 gauge black annealed wire) = 2,205 lb

Always follow your baler manufacturer’s wire recommendations, and contact us for specific wire selection assistance.

Recommended wire gauge by bale weight:

Bale weight	3-wire baler	4-wire baler
Up to 1,000 lb	11 gauge	12 gauge
1,000-1,500 lb	10 gauge	11 gauge
1,500-2,200 lb	9 gauge	10 gauge

What type of baling wire is best for cardboard?

For most cardboard bales, uncoated, bright baling wire and black annealed baling wire are the most cost-effective choices.

Bright bale ties, such as our 11 gauge bright double loop bale ties, are compatible with vertical balers. Here’s why you should use bale ties to bale cardboard:

• Economical: Uncoated steel wire is the cheapest wire option for short-term storage.
• Indoor use: Perfect for dry environments (e.g., warehouses, distribution centers), where cardboard should be kept.
• Quick recycling: Since cardboard is usually recycled rapidly, corrosion resistance is unnecessary.

The benefits of black annealed wire for baling cardboard include:

• Durable: Heat-treated for flexibility and given a wax coat that provides mild rust resistance.
• Resilient: The wax coating improves corrosion resistance. The wire also bends, twists, and expands to handle oddly shaped bales and shift with materials as bales settle.
• Cost efficient: The annealing process increases the wire's elongation properties. It can stretch up to 25% of its length, which allows recyclers to produce dense bales with less wire.

If you’re looking for black annealed wire for automatic balers, check out our box black annealed wire and stem wire options. We also offer black annealed bale ties for manual balers.

Galvanized wire is the best option if your bales face moisture or long-term outdoor storage, but cardboard’s short recycling cycle and indoor storage often make galvanized wire an unnecessary expense.

Choose Baling Wire Direct

We’ve got the wire you need to maintain safe and efficient cardboard baling operations for the recycling industry and beyond. We source the best steel from family-owned mills and use time-tested manufacturing techniques to deliver the best baling wire products on Earth.