The usability and functionality of each model of the filing cabinets differs despite the similarities of its design . Proven to be a secure way of keeping valuable files, there were significant modifications made since its first creation in the 1800’s. Although it has kept the looks of the old cabinets, when it comes to materials and durability, the newly released ones are better.

In this article, I have prepared things one should consider before purchasing a filing cabinet.

Types of Filing Cabinets

You can choose from a wide selection of filing cabinets in the market. For cabinets with one to five compartments, you can opt to have the traditional vertical file cabinet.

Another design is a lateral cabinet. This design is a lot wider compared to the standard design. This allows its content to be kept front to back or side to side in its drawers. As they are not as deep as vertical cabinets, this allows lateral filing cabinets to double as wall partitions.

The most ideal for office spaces with limited surround space are vertical file cabinets. The capacity to store files is not as much compared to the lateral cabinet but this allows you to save some office space. Depths of vertical file cabinets can be from 15 to 28 inches.

When it comes to filing, lateral cabinets are the most flexible. This type can accommodate folders of different sizes such as legal and letter-sized folders. Vertically designed cabinets can only store one type of folder. The biggest of the three when it comes to size is the lateral drawers. With its space inside it can store more files than any other types.

Quality of Product

If you are searching for a high quality cabinet always make sure to check whether the drawers are well supported by its suspension system. Ensure that despite the bulk of its content, it is capable of storing it.

The safety features of a filing cabinet must be a top priority. It is strongly advised to support the mechanism as not to keep the cabinet from falling over once several drawers are used at one time. The high end unit employs a counterweight on each of its drawers and a locking mechanism that allows only one drawer at a time to be opened.

Cabinets are prone to wear and tear. To make sure it does not easily get worn out the compartment’s mechanism should be made of high grade steel both internally and externally.

Resistance to Fire and Impact

Available in the market nowadays are fire and impact resistant cabinets. This will allow the cabinet to keep documents safe despite extreme heat as these features allow the compartments to keep their internal temperature up to one hour. With such, it can protect even media tapes and computer discs.

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