Cardboard shredders: when are they useful for business?

A cardboard shredder reduces cardboard into smaller pieces or, depending on the equipment, prepares it for reuse or further waste handling. It differs from a cardboard baler: a shredder cuts the material, while a baler compresses it into a bale.

When should you choose a shredder or a baler?

A shredder suits applications requiring smaller cardboard pieces, preparation for another process or, with dedicated equipment, production of cardboard parcel filling.

A baler is more suitable when the main aim is to reduce the volume of cardboard or other suitable waste and produce tidy bales for storage and collection. Explore STRAPAS baling solutions on the waste balers page, and cardboard baler selection advice in the guide 'Cardboard balers in Lithuania'.

What should you assess before choosing a cardboard shredder?

• Cardboard type and size. Thin cardboard, corrugated boxes and other packaging differ.
• Volumes generated. Throughput must match the actual workflow.
• Desired outcome. Decide whether you want smaller cardboard pieces, packaging filler or material for subsequent baling.
• The workstation. Assess equipment positioning, material feeding and safe operator access.

Should a shredder be combined with a baler?

It depends on the process. Some businesses need one solution; others use shredding and baling at separate stages. Do not choose both automatically — first assess what actually happens to the cardboard after collection.

If bulky boxes and frequent collections are the main problem, it is often worth assessing a cardboard balerfirst. If the aim is packaging material from used cardboard or shredding for another process, consider a shredder.

Where are cardboard shredders used?

They may suit warehouses, logistics centres, manufacturers, e-commerce businesses and other sites regularly generating cardboard packaging. Selection depends on the specific stream, not business size alone.

How to choose

Start with a simple question: what do you want at the end of the process? For a compact bale, explore balers. For shredded cardboard, explore shredders. If unsure, contact STRAPAS and describe the waste types, approximate volumes and current handling process.