Thinking about starting a business that turns trash into cash? You’re in the right place. In the current global shift toward sustainability, the egg tray making business has emerged as one of the most stable and profitable ventures in the waste recycling sector.
Whether you call it a pulp molding machine or an egg tray machine, the logic is simple: you take cheap waste paper and turn it into high-demand packaging. Here is exactly how to navigate this industry in 2026 and why Shuliy Machinery is the partner you need.
1. Understanding the Market: Why Egg Trays?
The “pulp molding” industry gets its nickname—the egg tray making business—because nearly 80% of its products are used for egg packaging. But why is the demand so consistent?
- The 90% Rule: On average, a laying hen has a production rate of about 90%. If a local farm has 1,000,000 hens, they produce 900,000 eggs daily. Since one tray holds 30 eggs, that single area needs 30,000 trays every single day.
- Eco-Friendly Shift: With global “plastic bans,” paper trays are no longer an option; they are a requirement.
2. Choosing Your Machine: From Startup to Industrial Scale
Not all machines are created equal. Your choice depends on your budget and your local labor costs. Shuliy offers three primary types of molding technology:
- Reciprocating Machines (Small Scale): Perfect for startups. These produce 1,000–1,500 pieces per hour. They are cost-effective and can handle special shapes like coffee cup carriers or fruit trays.
- Rotary/Drum Machines (Medium to Large Scale): These are the workhorses of the industry, producing 2,500 to 7,000 pieces per hour. They run smoothly and are designed for 24/7 industrial production.
- Industrial Packaging Machines: Specifically for those looking to enter the “Industrial Tray” market (protecting electronics or appliances).
3. The Production Process: How It Works
The starting egg tray business journey involves three main phases:
- Pulping: Mixing waste paper and water at a 1:10 ratio. You can add pigments for color or waterproof glue for durability.
- Molding: A vacuum pump sucks the pulp onto a mold. Our molds are designed for precision; whether you need 3×1 (1,000 pcs/h) or 6×8 (7,000 pcs/h) configurations, the forming is instant.
- Drying: This is where you choose your efficiency. You can use Natural Drying (sunlight) to save money, or invest in a Multi-layer Metal Drying Line to save space and labor.
4. ROI Analysis: Is it Really Profitable?
Let’s talk numbers. Based on our latest egg tray manufacturing profit margin data, here is a breakdown of a standard 80g egg tray:
| Item | Cost Analysis (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Raw Material | 1 ton of waste paper (~$210) produces 12,500 trays. |
| Labor | Drying by hand takes ~6 people; automatic lines take only ~4. |
| Power | High-efficiency motors keep electricity costs to roughly $0.003 per tray. |
| Profit | In many markets, the ROI period for a Shuliy machine is only 6 to 12 months. |
5. Beyond Eggs: Diversifying Your Business
The beauty of the pulp molding industry trends in 2026 is versatility. Your egg tray making business doesn’t have to stop at eggs. By simply switching the molds, Shuliy machines can produce:
- Fruit Trays: Apple and tomato inserts that prevent bruising.
- Coffee Cup Carriers: A staple for the booming takeaway industry.
- Medical Trays & Wine Shippers: High-margin “specialty” products.
The Shuliy Advantage
At Shuliy Machinery, we don’t just sell you a machine; we design your entire factory layout. From the egg tray machine price to the specific tension of the vacuum pump, we customize everything to fit your local voltage and fuel availability (Coal, Gas, or Diesel).
Ready to see a customized business plan for your region? Contact our engineers today for a free capacity matching consultation!
