Turning Packaging Waste into a Strategic Asset
In industrial environments where cardboard packaging is handled in large volumes, disposal often becomes a costly challenge. Cardboard shredders—also known as cardboard perforators—present a cost-effective and sustainable alternative. By transforming waste into usable, protective void fill, businesses can reduce operational costs, minimize waste disposal fees, and support internal sustainability goals.
SelectPack offers a complete line of cardboard shredders suited for different production scales.
Cardboard Shredder Machine Hippo 325
Turn small cartons into high-quality void fill—right at your packing bench. The SelectPaper/Hippo325 is a space-saving cardboard perforator ideal for e-commerce studios, small warehouses, and dispatch counters. With a 325 mm feed width and quiet, plug-and-play design, it’s your entry point to sustainable in-house packaging.
Heavy-duty Cardboard Shredder HippoPlus 100
A compact yet powerful industrial cardboard shredder for packaging stations that demand speed and reliability. With a cutting speed of 12 m/min and 10 mm material capacity, the SelectPaper/HippoPlus 100 is built for continuous operation in dispatch centers and production environments. It turns bulky cartons into clean-cut cushioning in seconds—without clogging or overheating.
Why Businesses Are Rethinking Cardboard Waste
Industrial users are increasingly seeking ways to optimize packaging workflows and reduce reliance on single-use plastic materials. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), containers and packaging account for over 28% of all municipal solid waste in the U.S., with cardboard forming a significant portion.
- Shredding and reusing cardboard on-site:
- Reduces waste hauling costs
- Eliminates the need to purchase void fill
- Supports environmental compliance initiatives
- Shortens the packaging supply chain
How Cardboard Shredders Work
1. Preparation and Feeding
Begin by removing any staples, tape, or labels from the used corrugated cardboard. Flatten the boxes and insert them into the feed slot of the SelectPaper/Hippo or HippoPlus perforator. The machine’s design accommodates various box sizes, ensuring versatility in operation.
2. Perforation Process
Once the cardboard is fed into the machine, it passes through reinforced steel blades or rollers that perforate the material in a specific pattern. This process transforms the rigid cardboard into a flexible, honeycomb-like mesh, enhancing its cushioning properties for packaging applications.
3. Output Collection
The processed honeycomb mesh exits the rear of the machine, ready for immediate use as eco-friendly packaging material. This output can be utilized for wrapping, void fill, or lining boxes, effectively replacing traditional plastic-based materials.
Use Cases Across Industries
Cardboard shredders are adaptable across industries that require reliable void fill, especially in the following cases:
- E-commerce fulfillment centers: Replace plastic air pillows and peanuts with custom-fit recycled pads.
- Automotive and parts suppliers: Protect heavy and irregular-shaped items with sturdy cardboard mesh.
- 3PL and logistics hubs: Reduce waste disposal costs and generate void fill at point-of-use.
These applications make the equipment a versatile addition to any business looking to improve sustainability and cost efficiency in packaging.
Benefits of Integrating a Cardboard Shredder
1. Cost Efficiency
Integrating a Hippo series perforator into your packaging operations can lead to noticeable reductions in material expenses. By converting surplus corrugated boxes into cushioning mesh, businesses can decrease their reliance on purchased void fill materials such as bubble wrap or foam inserts.
2. Environmental Responsibility
As noted in the World Economic Forum’s report, reducing dependence on plastic in packaging is crucial to circular economy goals. Processing cardboard waste on-site supports sustainability initiatives by minimizing landfill contributions and promoting the reuse of materials. This practice aligns with eco-friendly packaging strategies, aiding companies in reducing their environmental footprint and demonstrating a commitment to responsible resource management.
3. Optimized Storage Utilization
Transforming bulky cardboard boxes into compact, flexible wrapping materials helps in reclaiming valuable warehouse space. This reduction in storage requirements for both waste cardboard and bulk packaging materials can enhance overall operational efficiency and organization within the facility.
4. Investment Value
While the initial acquisition of a Hippo series perforator represents a capital investment, the potential for cost savings in packaging materials and waste disposal can contribute to a favorable return over time.
Choose the Right Cardboard Shredder for Your Needs
SelectPaper/Hippo Series: Compact Solutions for Light to Medium Use
The SelectPaper/Hippo series, comprising models Hippo 325, 425, and 500, is designed for small to medium-sized operations. These desktop units are ideal for:
- E-commerce businesses aiming to reduce packaging costs
- Warehouses with moderate carton turnover
- Studios with limited workspace but frequent shipments
- Retailers transitioning to sustainable packaging solutions
With feed widths ranging from 325 mm to 500 mm and cutting speeds of 3 m/min, these machines efficiently convert used cardboard into flexible, honeycomb-patterned mesh suitable for protective packaging.
HippoPlus Series: Robust Options for Heavy-Duty Operations
The SelectPaper/HippoPlus series, including models HippoPlus 100 and 200, caters to high-volume, industrial applications. These floor-standing machines are suited for:
- High-volume fulfillment centers and 3PL warehouses
- Manufacturers processing substantial packaging waste
- Exporters requiring robust in-house packaging solutions
- Operations needing continuous, reliable performance
Featuring a 500 mm feed width, cutting speeds up to 14 m/min, and the ability to handle cardboard thicknesses up to 20 mm, the HippoPlus series is built for demanding workflows where speed and durability are essential. If your facility handles large volumes of cardboard waste daily, HippoPlus is likely your best fit.
Comparison Overview
| Features | SelectPaper/Hippo Series | SelectPaper/HippoPlus Series |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Desktop, compact | Floor-standing, industrial-grade |
| Feed Width | 325 mm – 500 mm | 500 mm |
| Cutting Speed | 3 m/min | 12–14 m/min |
| Max Thickness | Up to 7 mm | 10 mm – 20 mm |
| Power Consumption | 200W – 400W | 1500W – 2200W |
| Voltage | 110V / 220V | 220V / 380V |
| Weight | 28 kg – 38 kg | 168 kg – 200 kg |
| Noise Level | ~80 dB(A) | ~90 dB(A) |
| Ideal For | Small to medium operations | Large-scale, high-volume operations |
*Use this table to guide your selection, or contact us for help choosing the right model
Conclusion: Transforming Cardboard Waste into Operational Efficiency
Incorporating a cardboard shredder into your industrial operations offers a strategic approach to managing packaging waste. By converting used cardboard into protective void fill, businesses can reduce reliance on plastic materials, optimize storage space, and achieve cost savings.
SelectPack’s Hippo and HippoPlus series provide solutions tailored to varying operational scales. Whether you’re a small e-commerce business or a large-scale fulfillment center, there’s a model designed to meet your specific needs.
Ready to reduce waste and save costs?
→Talk to a packaging expert today
→Explore the full range of SelectPack’s cardboard shredders to find the right fit for your operations.
