Capital requirements and operating costs were developed and analyzed using economic-engineering techniques to develop average cost and breakeven volumes for modified flat and universal density bale presses. Specifications and costs were developed for two sizes of presses in both modified flat and gin universal densities. Variable costs were developed for 30 different combinations of hourly processing rates and total hours of seasonal operation for each press type. Relative baling cost and revenue received for universal density compression were considered. The breakeven point between universal density and new modified flat bale press operations ranged from 3,850 bales at 12-bales-per-hour plants to 5,117 bales at 24-bales-per-hour plants. When an older, operational flat bale press was replaced by a new universal press, breakeven volumes were about 45 percent higher for the 8- and 12-bale-per-hour plants. They were 41 percent higher for 16-, 20-, and 24-bale-per-hour plants.