Storage and filing cabinets are essential for an office space. You can use them in order to keep your documents safe, organised, and out of sight. When looking to choose a filing cabinet for your work space, the most important aspects are the amount of space you have available, as well as what type of files you will store. These two are the main criteria which will guide your choices. This article will focus on the various types of cabinets, as well as the advantages each of them offers.
Lateral File Cabinets
These are built primarily for their high volume capacity. They usually come with two to five drawers, and can mainly hold letters or documents of legal sizes. The files can be placed inside the file cabinet from left to right, or can be arranged front to back for easier access. Most lateral cabinets which feature two drawers are primarily designed to be used underneath desks or tables, in order to offer additional storage spaces while not taking away from the living space. If planning to buy cabinets for a crowded area, then lateral cabinets are the most efficient filing solution.
Vertical File Cabinets
Vertical cabinets are the traditional style found in many of today's offices. They are taller, and not as wide, thus using a minimal amount of space. Just as lateral cabinets, they can have between two to five drawers that hold letters or small documents. The general rule when using these cabinets is to place files from the front to the back, with the files facing the user.
Vertical cabinets are generally a good choice, offering long term storage because of their compactness. However, if you plan on using a vertical cabinet every day, make sure there is enough office room when the cabinet's drawers are fully open.
Construction Material
Most filing cabinets are made out of steel so that they feature a high durability. Because of this high durability, steel cabinets can withstand a high amount of abuse and still function properly. If however you prefer cabinets made out of wood, take into account how often the cabinet will be used. Wood is not as durable as steel, and if you plan to use the cabinet daily, it might not be the best choice. Wood cabinets are ideal for small work or home offices, where they are only used by a small amount of people. In order to protect your files, look for well-made cabinets. It is recommended to buy a cabinet with double walled sides made of steel, as well as with a reinforced base for extra sturdiness.
For more information, contact a company like Design Systems Office Interiors Pty Ltd.
