File Cabinets

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the types of file cabinets?

There are two different styles of file cabinets including lateral and vertical. A lateral set up will run right to left. It really will come down to what amount of space you have to use for filing.

The lateral file style will allow you more horizontal space but that doesn't mean it has to be short. There are types of lateral cabinets that are three to four rows tall. Vertical file compartments are going to be tall automatically.

2. Will vertical or lateral work best for me?

When you think about the type of file cabinets you need for either your personal or professional life it comes down to space and functionality. If you are working in an attic that you converted into an office you don't want to clutter up your area with furniture. You want to conserve your space and give your work area have a more open feel.

A tall vertical file cabinet can help create the illusion of more space since it draws the eye upward. This may seem ridiculous but if your body doesn't feel closed in you will be more productive. Making your office your own is intended to increase productivity.

3. Does the size of the document matter?

The size of the documents does matter because you cannot store as much in vertical cabinets. Therefore while it is aesthetically pleasing, it may not meet your filing needs. Think of your paper size and wall space and then you can make the right choice. You want to know how deep the drawers go and how many legal size pages it will hold.

4. Can file cabinets help my business?

Businesses that stay organized will stay ahead. Keeping your paperwork organized is just as important as balancing your checkbook. You want both to have all their ducks in a row so you will have a pulse on your company.

If the power goes out and you need to get a customer their information or lose that account you don't have time to apologize for an inconvenience. Pulling the file will take less than a minute and you can keep that customer and not lose business.

5. Are file cabinets needed with computers?

The move to digital documents has had an impact on companies storing their documents electronically. Putting a business's information on a server can save space because it would make the document available to more people, but you still need an original. While the speed of satellite internet has us living in the technological age, there are still troubleshooting issues.

6. What materials are used to make file cabinets?

File cabinets come in all sizes just as they come in different materials. A metal cabinet may be cheaper and go with the industrial feel or wood cabinets may be a better décor match. You can find file cabinets in wood, metal and even fiberboard. The type of material can affect the price. One of the best options to do is purchase them as part of a set so you know it will match the rest of your furniture.

7. Is fireproof protection worth it?

The importance of having your documents cannot be understated. As a family you want to make sure all your personal financial records are in a safe place. Should your house catch on fire then you could be without your social security cards, tax documents and even bank statements.

A business needs to make sure they don't lose track of their progress either. File cabinets that are fireproof are worth the extra money because they avoid a potential financial loss. Fireproof cabinets are an optional feature, but it can be worth the peace of mind you receive by knowing your information is protected.

8. Can you purchase cabinets with furniture sets?

People wanting to redecorate their office may want to upgrade their file cabinets as well. When you are shopping for office furniture including a desk, printer, computer, lamp and of course, the ergonomically correct desk chair you can review your storage options. Making everything match and go together will help you make your office your very own. It is important to decorate your room to your liking.

9. What are the benefits of buying online?

The internet is giving shoppers more and more saving options. File cabinets online can be cheaper because you can review different dealer and office supply stores. Shoppers often find better savings when they buy from a dealer because of the options.

10. What is the difference between dealers and office supply stores?

Dealers are going to be able to provide more because they buy in bulk and don't have to pay for building space. Office supply stores on the other hand are leasing a building and adding overhead to their file cabinets.

File Cabinets Glossary