Incoming inspection of baled paper for recycling reaches a new level: Using artificial intelligence (AI) methods, specifically machine learning, we have developed a camera-based inspection system that can determine the waste paper grade by analyzing the front of the bale directly on the truck bed. Using a permanently installed camera the entire load of a truck in terms of grade conformity and composition can be approximately evaluated. The basis for the AI’s learning process and thus for the reliability of detection is an extensive image data set of individual bales with a wide variety of qualities.