Bundle Waste
Map warehouse waste to the work that produces it: receiving, unpacking, picking, dispatch and damaged-stock handling. Use observed quantities and accepted routes to design collections before buying a baler or compactor.
Plan by material and work area
| Stream | Site planning question |
|---|---|
| Cardboard | Where can accepted clean material be separated without obstructing work? |
| Stretch film | Does the proposed processor accept this film, colour and condition? |
| Pallets and timber | Who owns them, can they be reused, and are they treated or contaminated? |
| EPS packaging | Is there a confirmed route for the grade and preparation available? |
| Damaged stock | Does the product need recall, security or specialist waste assessment? |
EPA Victoria distinguishes treated timber from untreated material, so a single mixed timber pile should not be assumed suitable for any recycling route. EPSA separately describes preparing and recycling EPS. EPA Victoria: Manage and dispose of treated timber; Expanded Polystyrene Australia: EPS Recycling
Protect access and staff
Locate containers with the site safety lead and collection provider. Check loading areas, pedestrian routes, emergency access and equipment clearances. Do not put chemical-soaked packaging into a general bin by default. EPA's classification guidance explains the need to understand waste composition and obtain technical help where required. EPA Victoria: Classify industrial waste
Assess equipment using a real trial
- Measure the material available during normal and peak trading periods.
- Confirm the receiving operator accepts the proposed bale or compacted load.
- Request equipment, installation, power, maintenance, training and removal costs.
- Agree operating responsibilities and safe procedures with the supplier.
- Compare the total cost with collection options using the same period and quantity.
Do not assume a compression ratio, resale income, minimum free-collection quantity or payback period from a generic industry claim.
Keep a usable service record
Record bins, collection dates, missed lifts, weights where measured, invoices and destination information. Check whether operational changes actually reduce overall cost or waste per unit of activity. See the pallet guide and commercial film checklist for separate routing decisions.
Sources
- EPA Victoria — Manage and dispose of treated timber. Checked 18 September 2026; Classify timber; Reuse as sawdust or mulch; Oil-borne preservatives.
- Expanded Polystyrene Australia — EPS Recycling. Checked 18 September 2026; Sorting; Collection; Reprocessing.
- EPA Victoria — Classify industrial waste. Checked 18 September 2026; Classification process; Waste codes; Priority waste categories.
