How much do paper bales weigh?

The weight of a bale of paper depends on the size of the baler you use, with the average bale weight being around 1000 pounds. These bales measure approximately 30 x 48 x 60 inches.

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

How does bale size affect weight?

Paper bale weight is based on size and density. Here is a comparison of common paper bale categories:

Bale size	Weight	Dimensions (inches)
Small	around 170 lb (77 kg)	22 x 30 x 42
Medium	around 1000 lb (453 kg)	30 x 48 x 60
Large	1000–2000 lb (453–907 kg)	Varies

About vertical paper balers

Vertical baler machines produce smaller, lighter bales for low-to-medium volume paper recycling operations. These machines use vertical hydraulic presses to compress paper. Their small chambers and presses produce smaller, lighter bales.

About horizontal paper 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 bales of paper tightly, which maximizes density and reduces transportation costs.

Horizontal, automatic balers with two rams create the densest bales and are the go-to choice for heavy paper bales. Automated baling systems apply consistent pressure (e.g., 110,000 lb press force) to produce tight bales with minimal air gaps.

Does all paper weigh the same?

Paper weight depends on composition, condition, and processing. Here’s how these factors influence the weight of paper and paper bales:

• Type of paper: Office paper is denser and heavier than lightweight paper, like tissue paper or newsprint.
• Coatings and finishes: Glossy or laminated paper contains added layers, which increases weight compared to uncoated stock.
• Thickness: Cardstock or heavy-duty packaging paper weighs more per sheet than thin printer paper.
• Moisture content: Paper absorbs moisture. Wet paper can weigh 10–20% more than dry paper, which raises transportation costs and complicates recycling efficiency.
• Contamination: Foreign materials, like staples, adhesives, or ink coatings, add weight and complicate recycling. Mixed waste (e.g., plastic liners in envelopes) further skews bale weight.
• Processing methods:Shredded paper is less dense than intact sheets, which reduces bale weight. Conversely, tightly compressed bales may weigh more due to higher density.

For accurate weight measurements and maximum recycling value, store paper in dry, covered areas to minimize moisture absorption, and remove contaminants before baling.

What gauge baling wire is best for paper?

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

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

The combined load strength of all wires must exceed the bale’s weight to prevent breakage. Since thinner wire is cheaper, businesses should go with the thinnest baling wire that safely supports their bales. For example, a 1,200-lb bale made by a 3-wire 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
Under 500 lb	12 gauge	13 gauge
500-1,000 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 baling paper?

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

Black annealed wire

Black annealed baling wire is often used for high-density bales that require flexibility, or bales that are stored short-term or indoors. We offer black annealed wire in box and stem varieties. The benefits of black annealed wire for paper balers include:

• High tensile strength: Secures dense paper bales, such as mixed office paper, without snapping.
• Elongation properties: Stretches up to 25% to accommodate shifting materials as bales settle.
• Automatic baler compatibility: Feeds smoothly in high-volume machines (use box or stem black annealed wire).

Bright wire

We also offer bright baling wire as single loop and double loop bale ties. Here’s why you should use bright bale ties to bale paper:

• Economical: Uncoated steel wire is the cheapest option.
• Indoor use: Sufficient for dry environments (e.g., warehouses, distribution centers), where paper bales should be kept.
• Aesthetics: Some operations prefer bright baling wire for client-facing applications.

Single loop bale ties can be tied to different lengths to accommodate inconsistent bale sizes. They work with horizontal and vertical manual balers. Double loop bale ties are pre-cut to length. The double loop configuration accelerates the tying process, which can increase productivity.

Match your baling wire for paper to your baler’s specifications and storage needs. For automatic systems, test black annealed options first—their cost-efficiency and flexibility make them a recycler favorite. Paper is typically recycled quickly and stored indoors, so galvanized wire is unnecessary.

Choose Baling Wire Direct

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