What is wastepaper?  

Used, damaged or unnecessary papers, books, newspapers intended for reprocessing into paper» colloquially «worthless literature.” Definition of wastepaper according to the PWN dictionary“ .  Wastepaper is old, unnecessary, worn-out and damaged paper products that can be reused.    

The transport of wastepaper is an essential element of the logistics chain in the paper recycling industry – both from the perspective of senders (e.g., companies dealing in secondary raw materials, printing houses, publishing houses) and recipients (paper mills, companies processing wastepaper into new paper products). To ensure effective, safe and regulatory-compliant transportation, it is worth focusing on proven practices that significantly improve processes throughout the entire supply chain.  Wastepaper plays an important role in transport, particularly in the context of recycling and environmental protection.  

The transport of wastepaper is regulated by various regulations that aim to ensure the safe and proper transport of these wastes. Here are some key information on this topic:  

• SENT System: since February 2022, the transport of wastepaper in Poland has been covered by the Electronic Transport Supervision (SENT) system. However, wastepaper is on the so-called "green list", which means that the transport of wastepaper in quantities up to 20 kg does not require reporting in the SENT system.  

• Labeling and Documentation: the transport of wastepaper should be marked with an appropriate sign stating "waste" and registered in the appropriate register. The lack of such markings and documentation may lead to penalties and administrative proceedings.  

• Transport Permits for International Transport: regulations regarding the transport of wastepaper may vary depending on the country. In many European countries, it is required to have appropriate permits for waste transport. It is advisable to consult with the relevant authorities or specialized companies to ensure that all formalities are correctly fulfilled.  

• Irregularities: regulations regarding the transport of wastepaper are strict, and irregularities may lead to penalties. For example, transporting wastepaper without the required sign and entry in the register may result in significant fines.           

  
  

Best Practices in Wastepaper Transport    

1. Proper Sorting and Preparation of the Load  

A key step before starting transport is the proper preparation of wastepaper. Sending companies should remember about:  

• sorting – wastepaper should be sorted by classes and types – e.g., newspapers, cardboard, office paper. This facilitates quicker and more efficient processing of the material by the recipients,

• compression — proper pressing or baling of wastepaper increases the density of the load, reduces volume, and limits transport costs. Additionally, it facilitates securing the load on the vehicle,

• maintaining cleanliness and dryness — paper easily absorbs moisture, which can degrade its quality. Protection against water, snow, or condensation is crucial for keeping the material in optimal condition.  

  
  

2. Choosing the Right Means of Transport and Trailer  

From the perspective of transport companies, choosing the appropriate type of vehicle and equipment is crucial:  

• walking floor or movable floor trailers — allow for easy and quick unloading of wastepaper, minimizing the risk of damage,

• covered trailers (tarpaulin or closed) - provide adequate protection against weather conditions, thus protecting the wastepaper from dampness or contamination,

• vehicles meeting ecological standards — using modern, low-emission articulated trucks is becoming increasingly important, especially in international transport, due to growing requirements for environmental protection.  

  
  

3. Securing the Load and Complying with Legal Norms  

Both drivers and those responsible for loading should remember about proper cargo securing techniques:  

• tie-downs, anti-slip strips, stabilizing mats — these keep the load stationary during transit, minimizing the risk of shifts and consequently damage to the paper or road collisions,

• observing permissible total weight and axle pressures — an overly heavy or unevenly distributed load can lead to inspections and penalties, and also poses a road safety hazard,

• transport documentation and quality control — appropriate documents, such as the waybill and possible quality certificates, are essential for transporting wastepaper within the European Union. It is also advisable to apply internal quality control procedures to ensure that the material meets the standards of recipients.  

4. Timeliness and Flexibility of Logistics  Both senders and recipients expect timely and predictable deliveries:  

• scheduling — working with an experienced transport company allows for precise determination of loading, transport and unloading times, which helps minimize downtime on the recipient's side,

• flexibility in the face of changes — unforeseen events such as traffic jams, breakdowns or delays at borders should be taken into account and compensated by appropriate monitoring and real-time communication systems,

• route monitoring and telematics — modern IT tools allow tracking the position of the load, communicating with the driver and quickly responding to changes in transport conditions if necessary.  

5. Care for Relationships and Information Exchange  

Long-term, partnership relationships between senders, carriers, and recipients are the foundation of efficient logistics:  

• clear commercial terms — clearly defined prices, payment terms, warranty conditions, and possible contract penalties build trust between the parties,

• constant contact and quick response — regular communication, including via IT systems, enables quick information exchange about the load status, possible changes, or problems,

• feedback and continuous improvement — comments and observations on the quality of the load, timeliness, or transport service quality help identify areas for improvement and implement further enhancements.    

Summary:  Best practices in wastepaper transport are based on a comprehensive approach that considers the needs of all participants in the supply chain: from reliable sorting and securing of the load to choosing specialized transport means, complying with legal and ecological standards, and effective communication and timeliness of deliveries. Transport companies, by implementing best practices and innovative solutions, can ensure high-quality service for their clients (both senders and recipients), thereby building long-lasting and beneficial business relationships.