Written by: Timur Lesov

August 07, 2025

Updated on August 07, 2025

Key Takeaway: The cost of a bale of cardboard varies widely—from approximately $20 to $300 per metric ton (equating to $6–$90 per typical 300–900 kg bale)—depending on geography, bale weight and dimensions, material quality, market demand, and logistical factors. Understanding these variables enables businesses and recyclers to optimize revenue, reduce waste-management expenses, and capitalize on recycling markets.

1. Price Ranges per Metric Ton

Across major markets, the price paid for recycled cardboard bales typically falls into the following broad ranges:

• North America (U.S.) – Average: $40–$95 USD/ton – Low: $20–$40 USD/ton – High: $150–$300 USD/ton during peak demand
• United Kingdom – £50–£150 per tonne (≈$63–$190 USD) from 2022–2024 – Current UK average: £85 per tonne (≈$108 USD)
• Global Commodity Range – $20–$210 per ton over the last five years, reflecting global pulp-fiber market swings

These per-ton figures must be converted to bale-specific costs by factoring bale weight.

2. Typical Bale Weights and Corresponding Costs

A “mill-size” cardboard bale commonly weighs 500‒1,200 lb (225‒545 kg), though smaller bales may be 300–400 kg (660–880 lb) and larger industrial bales can exceed 1 metric ton.

For example, an average 660 lb (300 kg) bale has been worth between $6 and $63 in recent years, reflecting per-ton prices of $20–$210.

3. Factors Influencing Cardboard Bale Price

3.1 Material Quality

• Clean corrugated cardboard (free of contaminants such as tape, food residue, plastic liners) commands premiums—up to 25% higher—because it reduces processing costs.
• Mixed or soiled cardboard may incur discounts or even negative pricing (i.e., tip fees) in regions where contamination burdens recyclers.

3.2 Bale Density & Preparation

• Higher bale density (more weight per cubic foot) lowers transport costs per ton and often results in a per-ton price premium.
• Proper strapping and consistent bale dimensions facilitate loading, leading to more favorable bids from buyers.

3.3 Market Demand & Global Commodity Cycles

• Prices fluctuate seasonally (e.g., holiday shipping peak) and cyclically with global pulp-fiber supply and consumer-goods manufacturing.
• Periods of high demand (e.g., packaging surges during e-commerce growth) can drive per-ton rates toward the upper end of $200–$300.

3.4 Geographical Location & Transportation

• Proximity to mills or large scrap-yard hubs reduces freight costs and may yield higher net prices.
• Remote locations or areas with limited processing capacity may see net prices 20–50% below national averages.

3.5 Volume Commitments & Contract Terms

• Bulk sellers (monthly > 50 bales) often negotiate volume discounts but also secure more stable, higher per-ton rates.
• Spot sellers with one-off loads typically receive lower or more volatile bids.

4. Scrap-Yard Payouts and Recycling Center Rates

• Some municipal centers charge tip fees on mixed recyclables but pay for properly baled cardboard (e.g., $30.95/ton paid for baled cardboard delivered without re-baling in Larimer County).
• Commercial scrap yards in major U.S. markets currently pay $40–$95 USD/ton, with occasional peaks up to $120 USD/ton in high-demand states.

5. Cost-Saving Benefits Beyond Bale Revenue

In addition to direct revenue from bale sales, baling cardboard can deliver significant operational savings:

• Waste Hauling Reductions: Baling reduces volume by up to 80–90%, lowering collection frequency and hauling fees.
• Floor-Space Savings: Baled cardboard occupies significantly less storage space than loose material, optimizing warehouse capacity.
• Labor Efficiency: Automated or semi-automated balers decrease manual handling, cutting labor costs by up to 30% in high-volume operations.
• Environmental & Compliance Benefits: Improved recycling percentages can contribute to sustainability goals, potentially reducing regulatory fines or qualifying for green incentives.

6. Strategies to Maximize Bale Value

1. Maintain High Purity: Remove all non-cardboard materials (plastic, foam, metal) before baling.
2. Optimize Bale Weight & Density: Aim for “mill-size” bales (500–1,200 lb) with consistent dimensions to qualify for premium pricing.
3. Negotiate Volume Contracts: Leverage consistent, high-volume output to secure long-term, favorable per-ton rates.
4. Monitor Market Trends: Align sales with periods of high demand (e.g., pre-holiday packaging surges) to capture top market rates.
5. Select Ideal Partnerships: Choose recyclers or scrap yards with transparent pricing and reliable logistics support to minimize hidden fees.

7. Regional Cost Examples

Estimates are illustrative; actual prices vary with quality, demand, and logistics.

8. Conclusion

The price for one bale of cardboard depends primarily on:

• Its weight (commonly 300–1,200 kg)
• The prevailing per-ton rate ($20–$300/ton globally; $40–$95 USD/ton in the U.S.; £50–£150 /tonne in the U.K.)
• Material purity, density, location, and contract terms

A typical 500 kg bale in the United States can yield $10–$150, with averages clustering around $20–$60 depending on market conditions. By optimizing quality, bale specifications, and timing of sales, businesses can maximize both their recycling revenue and operational savings.

Timur Lesov

Eco-freak, nerd, and green technology fanatic. I’m in favor of making eco-friendly living simple as well. I graduated from Berkeley in 2017. Studied environmental science and all things sustainability related. I create content and share simple tips for greening your everyday life. I think even small changes can make a huge difference and we can build a cleaner and more sustainable future.