The value of file cabinets depends on a variety of factors, including the type and age of the cabinet. When determining a file cabinet’s worth, it’s important to consider its condition, size, and any special features it may have.
Generally speaking, metal vertical file cabinets are worth more than their wooden counterparts, while lateral file cabinets with more drawers tend to have a higher value.
When it comes to brands, steel file cabinets made by household names like Hon, Logic System, and Worksite are usually worth more than unbranded and lesser-known products. Age also plays a role in determining the value of a file cabinet, with older models typically commanding higher prices if they are in good condition.
Price can also vary based on the size of the cabinet and the amount of storage it offers. In general, two-drawer and three-drawer cabinets with legal-size files are worth more than those with letter-size files.
Four-drawer and five-drawer file cabinets will also have higher values, especially when compared to single-drawer models.
Finally, special features increase the value of a file cabinet, such as built-in keys, locks, and drawers with adjustable dividers. The highest-priced file cabinets are those that are well cared for, with minimal wear and tear.
On average, metal file cabinets range in value from about $50 for a basic single-drawer model to over $100 for a multi-drawer lateral cabinet. Wooden file cabinets may be slightly less expensive, with vintage models often going for higher prices.
What kind of metal is a filing cabinet?
A filing cabinet is usually made out of steel or light gauge steel, although other materials such as wood, plastic, and aluminum may also be present. Steel filing cabinets offer the strongest and most secure option, since they are sturdy and difficult to break into.
Steel cabinets also provide excellent fire protection. On the downside, steel filing cabinets are typically more expensive than other materials, and they can be quite heavy. Light gauge steel cabinets are a slightly lighter and less expensive option, but they don’t provide the same level of security and protection.
Wooden, plastic, or aluminum filing cabinets provide lighter weight and less expensive options, but they don’t tend to stand up to much wear-and-tear and are easily broken into. Ultimately, the best filing cabinet for any application will depend on the user’s needs and budget.
What are most file cabinets made of?
Most file cabinets are traditionally made of steel for strength, durability and fire safety. Steel filing cabinets offer a variety of options for design and capacity, from two-drawer vertical cabinets to lateral five-drawer units.
Some of the latest versions are made of metal mesh to provide a lighter design option. Plastic file cabinets are available for lighter filing needs, and can provide a modern, contemporary style. Wood file cabinets may be made of real wood, such as oak, pine and cherry, and can provide a more modern or vintage look, depending on the finish.
These types of filing cabinets are often used in home offices. Laminate file cabinets are a budget-friendly option, providing much of the same strength and durability as steel while still providing a variety of colors and styles.
While steel cabinets may be the most popular choice, there are many other material options available for those seeking a different style, price point, and weight capacity.
How do you make an office file cabinet?
Making an office file cabinet is an easy and straightforward project. To begin, you will need to gather the materials, which can include MDF or plywood boards depending on the size of the cabinet. You will also need appropriate screws and adhesive, such as wood glue, to ensure that your cabinet is well constructed.
Once you have gathered all of your materials, you will need to measure and cut the wood to fit the shape and size of your file cabinet. You may choose to use a jigsaw or circular saw for cutting purposes.
After that, you should attach the sides and the back of the cabinet using screws and glue.
Once the frame of the cabinet is complete, you will need to add the shelves. Measure and cut the shelves to the desired length and use the same screws and glue combination to secure them in place. You can further customize your cabinet by adding dividers or hanging rails to store files and documents upright.
Finally, you will need to attach a handle for easy access and paint the outside and inside of the cabinet. This will give you a finished look and make it easier to differentiate between folders or file items.
Once your office file cabinet is completed, you will have a great way to store your documents, folders, books, and any other items you will need to keep in the office.
Are old file cabinets worth money?
Yes, old file cabinets can be worth money depending on various factors, such as the make, model, and condition of the cabinet. In some cases, particularly for vintage and antique filing cabinets, collectors may be willing to pay high prices for them.
Even non-antique file cabinets have some value, as the metal components can be salvaged or re-purposed. Some metal cabinets can also fetch a decent price on the collector’s market, depending on their rarity and design.
Generally, the older the file cabinet, the higher the value. Wood file cabinets are also worth something, so don’t just discard one if you come across it. It’s always recommended to research if you want to better understand how much a particular piece might be worth.
Are filing cabinets still used?
Yes, filing cabinets are still used today, although their frequency may have decreased due to the rising popularity of digital file storage systems. Numerous offices and businesses still turn to filing cabinets as an ideal way to store and manage important documents, especially in environments that require a high level of security or document retention.
In fact, filing cabinets are often seen as a more reliable and secure way to store documents than digital storage since there is no risk of a document being corrupted or erased from an unexpected power outage.
Furthermore, filing cabinets typically offer greater protection from fire or theft since there is no risk of a digital system being hacked into. Finally, for many businesses and individuals, these cabinets are still seen as the traditional way to store documents and keep them organized in an efficient and secure manner.
Why do companies still use filing cabinets?
Companies still use filing cabinets for a number of reasons. First and foremost, filing cabinets are an effective way for businesses to store documents that are used regularly. Since filing cabinets are often more organized than other forms of document storage, they can help to reduce the time and effort it takes to find the necessary documents in a hurry.
Additionally, filing cabinets are relatively inexpensive compared to other storage solutions, which makes them an economical choice for businesses on a budget. Finally, it’s important to remember that filing cabinets are a highly secure way of storing confidential information since they can be locked in the event of an emergency or unwanted intrusion.
While filing cabinets are not the only option for document storage, companies often find that they offer a cost-effective, secure, and relatively quick way to store and access their documents.
How much does a full filing cabinet weigh?
The weight of a full filing cabinet will vary drastically depending on the type and size of filing cabinet you have. Generally speaking, a four-drawer filing cabinet will typically range from about 140 lbs.
for a standard-sized cabinet up to about 210 lbs. for a larger, heavier cabinet. A two-drawer filing cabinet will typically range from about 64 lbs. to 158 lbs. , depending on the size. Additionally, the filing cabinet material may affect the weight—filing cabinets made of heavier metals like steel will weigh more than lighter materials such as wood or wood composites.
How heavy is a 5 drawer lateral file cabinet?
A 5 drawer lateral file cabinet can vary in weight, depending on the materials and construction of the cabinet. Generally, these kind of cabinets are constructed with durable steel and often include reinforced construction.
For most common models, the average weight of a 5 drawer lateral file cabinet is approximately 220 pounds (100 kg). This is assuming that the cabinet is dry, with no files or items inside. If the cabinet is filled with files and documents, then it could easily weigh over 300 pounds (136 kg).