Waste balers for shopping centres: how to choose the right solution
In retail, the biggest problem is often not total waste weight, but the space occupied by cardboard boxes and plastic film. A waste baler can compact these materials and help organise warehouse and collection processes.
When choosing a cardboard or waste baler, start with the actual stream: cardboard and film volumes, where they accumulate, equipment space and how finished bales will be collected.
When does a baler make sense in retail?
A baler is especially useful when cardboard or film continually accumulates in goods receiving, unpacking or storage areas and disrupts work. Compacted waste takes up less space, making it easier to maintain a designated collection area and plan removal.
Before selecting equipment, assess:
- daily or weekly cardboard and film volumes;
- whether these materials can be separated from mixed waste;
- space available for the baler and finished bales;
- current collection frequency;
- whether staff will handle bales with a trolley or forklift.
Cardboard and film: one chamber or several?
Retail sites often generate cardboard and plastic film simultaneously. To keep them separate, choose a workflow that avoids staff constantly switching materials in a single chamber.
A multi-chamber solution may be convenient, for example ORWAK MULTI 5070. Each chamber can handle a separate material, keeping the sorting process clear for staff.

How much space is needed for the baler and bales?
In a shopping centre, consider more than the baler's dimensions. Allow room for loading doors, safe staff access, bale removal and temporary storage until collection.
The best location is usually close to where waste is generated, but away from main goods and pedestrian routes. Staff then avoid carrying cardboard across the warehouse, and the baler does not obstruct logistics.
Which baler type suits a retail site?
Smaller retail sites often prioritise compact dimensions and simple operation. Consider smaller vertical models such as ORWAK 3110 or ORWAK 3220.
For higher cardboard volumes, consider ORWAK 3250. To handle cardboard and plastic film separately in one place, compare a multi-chamber solution such as ORWAK MULTI 5070.
Choose the exact model according to actual waste volumes, available space, power supply and bale sizes convenient for staff and your waste contractor.
When should a shopping centre rent a baler?
If waste volumes are uncertain, the shop is new or you want to test the solution in practice, compare purchasing with cardboard baler rental.
Rental terms, servicing scope and the model depend on the quotation and should not be assumed identical in every case. Provide waste types, volumes and available space before selecting.
What should you prepare before choosing a shopping centre baler?
- Approximate weekly or monthly cardboard and film volumes.
- Current container or collection numbers.
- Space available for the baler and bales.
- Power supply details.
- How bales will be moved out of the warehouse.
For model selection, call STRAPAS on +370 674 53123, email info@strapas.lt or via the contact page.
Frequently asked questions
Does a small shop need a large baler?
No. Match the baler size to actual waste volumes, available space and required bale size.
Can one baler handle both cardboard and film?
Yes, if the model is designed for both. However, a multi-chamber solution may be more convenient when both materials are handled simultaneously.
When should you choose rental?
Rental can be practical when needs are uncertain or temporary, or when you want to test a solution before making a long-term commitment.