Think You Need A Cardboard Compactor? Maybe Not.
You’ve got cardboard piling up. You search for a “cardboard compactor.” Seems logical, right? But here’s the thing: most people asking for a compactor actually need a baler.
It happens all the time.
The names are used interchangeably, but the machines aren’t.
So, What’s a Baler?
A baler is a specialised compactor that results in your Single Stream Commodity being in a densely packed and easily handled bale. The focus with a baler is single stream, high density compacting for maximum commodity value. Cardboard boxes can be fed in Whole without breaking them down first. They are also great for Plastic Films, Paper Sacks, Bulk Bags and most bulky waste.
Strap it. Stack it. Sell it.
Recyclers will pay for clean bales.
Your waste becomes income.
That’s hard to ignore.
If your space fills up with boxes fast, this machine keeps things under control.
And a Compactor?
A compactor just compacts your recyclable or waste into a large chamber, and most famously 30m3 hook lift containers. Once your container is full they are towed away by your waste company, emptied and brought back a few hours later. Yes they can be used for Cardboard, but they take up a lot of space and don't expect the same rebate as for baled product. The best use cases for Compactors is General Waste and Organics where the good units can be liquid sealed. Commonly seen at Shopping Centres and Supermarkets.
So if you just need less bin volume, a compactor works. But if you’re trying to recycle and reduce waste bills? Wrong tool.
Compare Them Side by Side
Baler Compactor
- Best for - Cardboard, Plastic Film, Paper Sacks, Bulk Bags
- Output - Tidy, compress, stackable bales Compressed waste
- Value - Can be sold
- Waste Cost - Lower (fewer pickups + resale)
- Typical Users - Retail, warehouses, dispatch Hotels, offices, food outlets
Compactor
- Best for - General waste and Organics
- Output - Compressed waste
- Waste Cost - Lower (fewer pickups)
- Typical Users - Supermarkets, Large Distribution Centres, Shopping Centres
Still Confused?
Don’t stress. Most businesses are dealing with a mix of waste types, different staff routines, and tight floor space. Picking the right setup is less about the machine, more about how everything works day to day.
That’s where we can help.
Telford Smith is the official supplier of Orwak — one of the most trusted names in the business. Whether it’s balers or compactors, we’ve got the gear, the advice, and the support to get you sorted.
Let’s Make It Easy
At Telford Smith, we match machines to real problems. No fluff. No pushy sales talk. If you need a baler, we’ll say so. If a compactor makes more sense, you’ll know.
You just want the waste dealt with. We get it.
📞 Call 03 8792 9777
Ask a question. Get a straight answer. That's it.
Photos
