The alternative structures for consolidating and

A simple analysis of the decision to bale or not can be performed by balancing the costs and calculating the distance required to make baling an economically attractive option. To perform arough analysis we make the following assumptions  

With these assumptions, the following formula can be developed  

For baling there are many different technologies and capacities available. Table 5.4 gives some definitions for a low-capacity baling option, a vertical baler. Typical bale dimensions are 60 x 32 x 48 inches. 

Another approach is to use a horizontal baler with auto-tie, which is much faster but significantly more expensive. The information for this option is provided in Table 5.5 This would only be worth installing for a high-capadty system. 

The assumption is that, with baling, the material is taken from the point of collection, unloaded and baled, and then put back into a trailer for shipment. Without baling, the trailer is picked up from the retailer location and shipped directly to the point of end use. In both cases the loose carpet is handled once. With these representative numbers, the distance, D, that the carpet has to be moved to make baling economical is approximately 800 miles. It is easy to do a sensitivity 

---