Buy Used Cardboard Bales in Minnesota

Save Money on Packaging: How to Buy Used Cardboard Bales in Minnesota

What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find reliable suppliers, understand fair pricing, and discover how to order the right amount of cardboard bales for your business needs.

Why Buy Used Cardboard Bales?

You can cut packaging costs by 40-60% compared to new cardboard. Plus, you help the environment by giving cardboard a second life instead of letting it go to landfills.

Where to Find Used Cardboard Bales in Minnesota

Local Suppliers:

RePackify Marketplace

• Based in Minneapolis
• Lists bales from across the state
• Handles local pickup and delivery
• Requires minimum 30-bale orders

What to Expect: Bale Sizes and Weights

Standard cardboard bales look like this:

• Size: 31 inches long × 47 inches wide × 43 inches tall
• Weight: 800 to 1,200 pounds each (depends on how tightly packed)
• Truck capacity: One standard truck trailer holds about 30 bales

Think of each bale as roughly the size of a large refrigerator but much heavier.

Current Pricing (What You'll Pay)

Per pound: $0.022 to $0.047

Per bale: Around $60 (Minneapolis area average)

Example: If you buy 30 bales at $60 each, you'll spend about $1,800.

Important: Prices change based on market conditions and bale quality. Always ask for current pricing.

How to Order (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Figure Out How Much You Need

• Count how many bales you use per month
• Decide if you want a one-time purchase or regular deliveries
• Most suppliers require at least 30 bales per order

Step 2: Get Price Quotes

• Contact 3-4 suppliers from the list above
• Tell them how many bales you need
• Ask about delivery costs and payment terms
• Request pickup times that work for you

Step 3: Check the Details

• Confirm minimum order requirements
• Ask about delivery fees
• Understand payment terms (net 30, cash on delivery, etc.)
• Schedule pickup or delivery windows

Step 4: Arrange Pickup or Delivery

• Most suppliers can load standard trucks or flatbeds
• Make sure trucks can access your location
• Be flexible with timing for better prices

Step 5: Inspect Before You Buy

Check that bales are:

• Dry (not wet or moldy)
• Tightly compressed
• Free from plastic, metal, or other contamination

Smart Buying Tips

Save Money:

• Order larger quantities for better per-bale pricing
• Consider signing contracts to lock in rates
• Ask about seasonal price changes

Quality Matters:

• Denser bales cost less to transport
• Check compression standards before ordering
• Avoid bales with contamination

Equipment Considerations:

• If you plan to make your own bales, look into used balers
• Excel Baler LLC in St. Charles, MN sells used equipment
• Factor in maintenance costs for equipment

Timing Your Purchase:

• Cardboard prices can spike during busy seasons
• Consider contracts for steady pricing
• Plan ahead for holiday shipping increases

Environmental Benefits:

• Some cities offer rebates for using recycled materials
• Large companies may prefer suppliers who use recycled packaging
• Track your environmental impact for marketing purposes

Common Questions Answered

Q: What if the bales arrive damaged?

A: Most suppliers will replace damaged bales if you report problems within 24 hours.

Q: Can I mix different types of cardboard?

A: Yes, but tell your supplier what mix you need. Some applications work better with specific cardboard types.

Q: How do I store bales?

A: Keep them in a dry place. Stack no more than 3 high to prevent crushing.

By following this guide, you'll find reliable suppliers, get fair pricing, and set up a system that saves your business money while supporting local recycling efforts.