A file cabinet is a workhorse for your paperwork organization. This essential piece of office furniture can come in many shapes and sizes. They range from small models that fit underneath a desk to bigger standalone pieces.
When selecting a used filing cabinet, consider durability and functionality. Use this choosing guide to help you find the perfect match for your office.
Functionality
Although much of the information that used to be stored on paper is now kept digitally, used office file cabinets are still indispensable office pieces. It can be found in many different shapes and sizes to accommodate different types of documents.
Lateral files are wider and can typically hold more paperwork than vertical cabinets. They also have more drawers, making accessing individual items easy. They’re often designed with ball-bearing drawer slides, adjustable leveling guides, and anti-tipping safety features.
Pedestal cabinets are smaller and usually designed to fit underneath a desk. They can feature top drawers for office supplies and larger bottom storage drawers with hanging file folders. They’re also available in a variety of finishes. Steel cabinets are workhorses that can withstand heavy use and offer more features than plastic or wood models.
Size
A file cabinet helps you keep your workspace neat and organized. It allows you to stay productive and can also add a sense of professionalism to your office decor.
You can find steel, aluminum, plastic or wood file cabinets. Metal models offer the durability that most businesses require and typically come with a lock system for security. However, they focus on functionality over style and may be too useful for some workspaces.
Wooden models are a more stylish option and can complement many types of office decor. They are usually made of either real wood or a wooden composite called medium-density fiberboard (MDF). Some wood cabinets feature finishes like cherry, oak and mahogany. These can match traditional, rustic or modern desks.
Design
In addition to size, consider the design of month to month lease. For instance, choose a metal filing cabinet over plastic if you need to store sensitive or valuable paperwork. Metal cabinets are more likely to be fireproof and resistant to water damage than their plastic counterparts. They may also be able to thwart theft.
Many cabinet drawers feature ball-bearing slides, adjustable leveling guides, and counterweights to prevent tipping. Drawer fronts may include magnetic label holders or be recessed for a cleaner look. Cabinet locks can enhance security, preventing unauthorized access to your important paperwork.
Some cabinet designs accommodate only letter-size documents, while others offer space for legal-size files. If you need to store both documents, choose a file cabinet that allows hanging folders.
Material
The material used to create a file cabinet plays a major role in its functionality and cosmetic appeal. Steel is the most common material for file cabinets, and it can be manufactured in various colors to suit your office décor.
A non-profit organization tests file cabinets for fire resistance and other important features. For example, a fireproof filing cabinet protects contents by blocking their oxygen supply to prevent a fire from spreading.
Pedestal file cabinets are designed to fit underneath a desk and can come in different sizes with various features. For example, some choices offer top drawers for office supplies and larger filing drawers below them. Others provide anti-tip mechanisms or lockable drawers to enhance security.
Budget
When purchasing a file cabinet, it’s important to consider future storage needs and the type of office aesthetic you want to maintain. This helps ensure the file cabinet provides enough storage and functionality to keep your workplace clean and organized.
It’s also good to look for a filing cabinet with the best value. This includes the features and functionality it provides versus the price you are willing to pay. For example, steel models are less expensive than wood models but offer the same durability. They also typically feature lock systems and counterweights for easy drawer suspension. Additionally, they are more likely to protect against fire and water damage. They can also be aesthetically pleasing for offices looking to retain a professional look.
