Cardboard in Focus

From a mundane industry to a hot commodity

So many things have changed because of the pandemic and lockdowns. One of those things is the demand for cardboard. In 2020, the demand for cardboard boxes used to ship goods to consumers rocketed up almost 40%. No one saw this coming and businesses across the board are adapting. This transformation of the industry is more significant than anything seen in a generation. The lockdowns have locked in and sped up ecommerce, meaning the demand for cardboard boxes will remain very strong.

With that, prices for cardboard that is recycled into new cardboard boxes has gone up 60%, from a previous eight year low. If your business has a lot (or even a little) cardboard waste, now is the time to start a recycling program or enhance your current recycling platform. You can create an ongoing revenue stream from your baled cardboard boxes.

Starting a recycling program is incredibly easy and cost effect. You can purchase a new or rebuilt vertical baler from PTR to get things going. We have a vertical baler for every need. Check out our line up here. The money you’ll earn from selling your baled cardboard will eventually pay for the baler, especially now with prices so high, and looking to remain that way for the foreseeable future. Many cardboard box manufacturers are selling out immediately, while back orders pile up.

Another factor contributing to demand for cardboard boxes is the conversion from plastic packaging. Consumers are seeking out products with sustainable packaging. That means less plastic containers and more paper and cardboard based packaging. This is another strong trend that isn’t going away anytime soon.

That being said, not only would your recycling program create another revenue stream, you’d be doing your part to help the planet. This is something you can advertise to your customer base. Get the word out on your website, social media and with in store signage. This will position you in your customers mind as “doing the right thing” and gives them an additional reason to stay loyal.

Contact PTR Baler & Compactor to discuss setting up a cardboard box recycling program using our vertical balers or about enhancing your current one.

PTR Baler and Compactor is Hiring!

PTR Baler and Compactor is Hiring!

We’re looking for a customer service representative and a controls engineer

As we continue to grow here at PTR Baler & Compactor, we’re looking to add two key positions to our team. PTR is a family owned and operating company located in Philadelphia. We have been recognized by the City of Philadelphia as an Employer of Choice.

We consider our workforce our most valuable asset. We strive to provide top notch compensation and benefit programs to allow PTR employees to protect their personal and financial health, prepare for their futures, and create peace of mind. We proudly offer Medical, Dental, Vision and Life insurance in addition to other benefits

Customer Service Representative

The bedrock of our success is excellent customer service. This important role requires an individual that has strong negotiation skills and the ability to deal with and interact with people. Strong and clear communication skills are essential to this role. Superior time management skills are a must.

The position also involves scheduling equipment installations, communicating with installers to confirm excellent customer service, dealing with both internal and external clients. Experience dealing with a large volume of customers is key.

This position is so vital, because dealing with our customers and ensuring they are satisfied is one critical to our success.Representative

Download the entire PDF job description here.

Controls Engineer

PTR is seeking a Controls Engineer who will report to the Chief Engineer. Key responsibilities include the design and development of equipment controls and control logic solutions, create technical solutions to maximize customer value and creating accurate BOMS for projects.

Five plus years of related experience are required. Education requirements include BSEE, BSME, Control, Software Engineering, Mechatronics or related degree. Excellent communication skills are key.

This is a great position for a seasoned engineer that wants to utilize their experience in a forward thinking environment, with a focus on innovation.

Download the entire PDF job description here.

Going Paperless – Part of the Green Mission with our Top 10 Tips

At PTR Baler & Compactor we are always focused on our “Green Mission” – going green and meeting our sustainability goals. We work with clients everyday to help them build recycling programs, utlizing our balers. While we’re always making moves on a big level – the little things make a difference too. That being said, we are proud to announce that all PTR offices will be going completely paperless by 2022.

While this doesn’t work for all businesses, its certainly worth looking into for yours. Once you start, you may be surprised at just how much paper your office uses. Below are tips to get a program together.

1. Go Digital. From invoices and internal forms to employee handbooks. Not only do you save paper, it makes it easier to stay organized and track things.

2. Talk to your customers. Find out what ideas they may have. They have an outside perspective on your organization and may suggest something you haven’t thought out.

3. You can go mostly paperless. There are some instances where you will still need paper. Thats ok. Just be sure to set up recycling bins around the office for this paper.

4. Talk to your vendors and partners. Request that they send their invoices and such digitally. This may not fit with their protocals, but it can’t hurt to ask. And you may inspire them to go paperless as well.

5. Digital Marketing. When possible, switch to digital methods to get the word out. An email blast saves a whole lot of paper versus a direct mail campaign. Another bonus – its usually more cost effective to go digital.

6. Set up your payment processor to email the receipt instead of printing a paper receipt. Every little bit helps!

7. Get tablets for use when taking notes in meetings, instead of using a pad. Another bonus – you can email yourself the notes and they’ll also be more legible.

8. Use QR codes for both employee and customer use. These can be used in place of menus and signage for example.

9. Use an digital signature service for sending documents that need to be signed. This is totally secure and is legally binding. (Check the specific service you use for details)

10. Think twice. Before you print something out, stop and think if you really need to. If you must print, try to duplex it – you’ll use 50% less paper!

Every business is different, so different ideas may apply. Take a look to see what you and your team can do to reduce paper use. Another bonus – you’ll spend less money on paper