How to Choose a Metal Vertical File Cabinet
Business owners and homeowners often need to organize their papers. If you run a business or need somewhere to keep personal papers, a metal, vertical file cabinet is an effective solution. Vertical file cabinets (or filing cabinets) stand upright, so they provide a lot of storage without taking up a lot of space. Choosing a quality file cabinet might seem easy, but not all file cabinets are the same. If you don't pick the right one, you could end up wasting money.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
One of the most basic tasks involves choosing a file cabinet with sufficient storage. So determine what you want to store and how many drawers you need. Think ahead, as you may need more room later on. Consider the height because with some taller file cabinets, you might have trouble seeing the contents of the top drawer.
-
2
Determine if you want a fireproof file cabinet. Not all metal file cabinets can withstand fires; some consist of thin metal that will melt. A fireproof cabinet has sturdy, steel walls and thick doors. Different cabinets have different temperature resistance rates based on their manufacturers' testing. UL-approved fireproof file cabinets can withstand heat up to 1,700 degrees Fahrenheit for one hour.
-
-
3
Examine the smoothness and quality of the drawers. Some file cabinets have drawers on telescopic arms with ball bearings or wheels that open very smoothly. Inexpensive cabinets might have drawers that simply slide out, and the metal-on-metal of the drawer on the cabinet can screech or scrape. After a while, these drawers may become tough to open.
-
4
Think of the documents you will be storing to determine if you need letter- or legal-sized drawers. Letter-sized drawers can accommodate 8.5-inch by 11-inch folders. Legal-sized drawers can house 8.5-inch by 14-inch folders.
-
5
Ensure the lock is secure. Pull firmly on the locked drawer; it should stay tightly in place. Make sure the lock opens smoothly and that the cabinet comes with a backup key.
-
6
Consider the weight. Higher-quality metal file cabinets weigh more than cheaper ones. An empty file cabinet can weigh 20 to 80 pounds. A tall one might seem light when you first purchase it, but when it gets full, it might weigh up to 200 pounds. This may not be an issue if you don't plan on moving it. Additionally, if you have a tall file cabinet, it could get top-heavy and tip if you attempt to move it.
-
7
Compare extra features. Some file cabinets have cushioned tops, or half-sized or extra-deep drawers. Features such as wheels and wheel locks let you move the file cabinet and lock it into place. This could be handy if several users will be filing from their workstations. Make sure you get all the features you need.
-
8
Make sure the file cabinet fits your budget. Small two- and three-drawer metal, vertical file cabinets cost $30 to $100. Tall four- and five-drawer cabinets cost $80 to $300. Fireproof file cabinets cost $1,000 to $4,000. A high-quality, non-fireproof file cabinet with lots of extra features could run $200 to $300.
-
1
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
