How Much Are Metal Filing Cabinets?

Metal filing cabinets are an essential item for any office or workspace that needs to store physical documents and files. However, with different sizes, types and features available, how much do metal filing cabinets cost? Here is an in-depth look at the factors that influence the prices of metal filing cabinets and what you can expect to budget for them.

What Are The Different Types of Metal Filing Cabinets?

There are several main types of metal filing cabinets that vary in size, construction and features. Understanding the differences can help determine the right option for your needs and budget.

Vertical File Cabinets

Vertical file cabinets are the most common type used in offices and other workspaces. They stand upright and typically have two to five drawers that extend out horizontally to access files. Key features include:

• Can store letter or legal sized files. Some models accommodate both.
• Drawer sizes typically range from 2-drawers up to 5-drawers. More drawers provide more storage capacity.
• Can be found in full height and half height options. Full height is ideal for large storage needs.
• Fire resistant options are available that protect documents in high heat.

Lateral File Cabinets

Lateral file cabinets open with drawers that extend sideways from a cabinet that sits horizontally. Models include:

• 2, 3 or 4-drawer options. Larger models provide more storage.
• Available in 30″ to 60″ widths to match various office spaces.
• Often used alongside desks because of their low profile horizontal design.
• Used primarily for letter or legal sized hanging folders.

Fireproof File Cabinets

Fireproof file cabinets provide one to two hours of protection for documents inside up to 1700°F through specialized construction including layers of fire-resistant insulation. They excel at protecting vital records and documents. Features include:

• Typically made of thick double-walled steel.
• Fire-resistant insulation lines the bodies and doors.
• Can withstand drops up to two stories high.
• Often feature high-security locks to prevent unauthorized access.

Waterproof & Water-Resistant Cabinets

For protection against water damage, waterproof and water-resistant file cabinets are available. They are designed to keep contents dry and undamaged. Main differences include:

• Waterproof – Completely sealed with gaskets and do not allow any water inside.
• Water-resistant – Use seam welding and sealant to repel water from the outside. May allow minor seepage.

Both options are useful for flood-prone areas or outdoor storage needs.

What Size Options Are Available?

Filing cabinets come in full heights and half heights to match both large and small storage needs. The main size options include:

• Full height – These tall four or five-drawer cabinets range from 52″ to 56″ high. Ideal for sizable storage needs.
• Half height – Shorter two or three-drawer models that are around 28″ high. Useful when space is limited.
• Wide – Lateral files can be found in widths ranging from 30″ up to 60″ wide. Wider models provide more storage.

Drawer depth is typically around 15″ deep and letter/legal drawer height around 10″. Always confirm dimensions to ensure the cabinets will fit in your intended space.

What Types of Drawer Locks & Security Features Are Available?

To keep your documents secure, filing cabinets incorporate locks and other security features in their designs. Common options include:

• Key locks – Basic key locks on each drawer are the most budget-friendly option. Keys can be lost or stolen however.
• Combination locks – These avoid the risks of lost keys and offer keyless convenience. Combinations can be changed for improved security.
• Biometric fingerprint locks – For ultimate security and convenience, biometric locks only open with the touch of an authorized fingerprint registered in the scanner.

Other security options include locking rods that prevent multiple drawers from opening at once. Be sure to choose a model with locks or features that meet your security needs.

How Much Weight Can They Hold?

The amount of weight metal drawers can hold generally ranges from:

• 50-75 lbs for basic vertical and lateral file drawers.
• 75-100 lbs for full height and heavier duty vertical cabinets.
• 150-300 lbs or more for high-capacity fireproof and waterproof safes.

Always check manufacturer specs for the weight limits to determine if it can handle the expected load. Weight capacity also declines over time as drawer glides wear. Exceeding the limits can lead to collapse. Reinforced high-capacity drawer glides improve weight ratings.

How Much Assembly Do They Require?

Ease of assembly is another factor that contributes to costs. There are a few main options:

• Ready-to-use – Pre-assembled models can be used right out of the box. This adds convenience for a higher cost.
• Small assembly required – Most vertical cabinets need attaching knobs or leveling feet. Basic assembly can be done by one person.
• Professional installation – Large lateral files, safes and motorized cabinets may require professional assembly which adds cost. Check with the retailer.

Prepared assembly kits with labeled hardware and instructions allow DIY assembly if desired. Complex high-security or built-in cabinets are typically installed by professionals however.

What Should You Budget for a Metal Filing Cabinet?

With the different variables in mind, here is an overview of approximate costs based on size, type and features:

• Basic vertical file – 2 to 4-drawer letter or legal size with keyed locks ($100 – $300)
• Lateral file cabinet – 2 to 4-drawer models 30″ to 60″ wide ($250 – $500)
• Executive vertical files – Full height and sturdy 5-drawer construction ($400 – $900)
• Fireproof vertical file – 1 to 2 hour fire protection (Starting around $1,000)
• Waterproof cabinets – For flood and water damage prevention (Starting around $1,500)

High-security electronic locks, modular configurations, motorized operation and thick gauged steel can increase costs up to several thousand dollars. Used and refurbished cabinets are available at significant discounts as well.

Matching the cabinet capabilities to your specific storage and security needs makes it easier to budget accordingly. Considering used options can further help cut costs for tighter budgets.

What Are The Best Places to Buy Metal Filing Cabinets?

There are several places businesses and consumers can purchase metal filing cabinets. Top options include:

• Office supply stores – National chains like Office Depot, Staples and OfficeMax carry a wide range of vertical, lateral and fireproof cabinets in various configurations. Products can be viewed in person.
• Furniture stores – Retailers like Ikea provide numerous ready-to-assemble filing cabinet options at lower price points.
• Online – eCommerce sites like Amazon offer the convenience of shopping and comparing products online. Be sure to factor in delivery costs.
• Used office furniture – Gently used and refurbished cabinets can be found at substantial savings from used furniture dealers locally and online.

For small business buyers, wholesalers like Uline offer high volume discounts. Purchasing used cabinets is ideal for getting quality while sticking to tight budgets.

Key Factors To Compare When Buying

With many filing cabinet options on the market, it helps to compare the following essential factors when selecting models:

• Intended use – Consider how much and what you need to store to pick suitable size, security level and construction.
• Budget – Match key features to your budget to avoid overspending. Used or refurbished products can provide savings.
• Capacity – Confirm dimensions along with weight limits that can handle expected loads. Factor in future needs.
• Assembly – Determine if ready-to-use, DIY or professional installation is preferred. This affects overall costs.
• Mobility – Casters allow cabinets to roll while leveling feet keep them stable in place. Select what fits needs.
• Durability – Review construction materials and quality. The most durable cabinets provide long-term value for years.
• Warranty – Multi-year warranties ensure the product is covered in the event of damage or defects.

By taking the time to evaluate these factors, you can determine the best filing cabinet match for your documents, space and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Filing Cabinet Costs

To help provide more cost clarity, here are some of the most common questions around how much metal filing cabinets cost and what impacts pricing.

How Much Do Basic Metal Vertical File Cabinets Cost?

For basic vertical files that hold letter or legal sized hanging folders, prices typically range from:

• 2-drawer – $100 to $200
• 4-drawer – $200 to $300
• 5-drawer – $250 to $350

These models are the most budget-friendly, with decent capacity for smaller office needs. Construction is lighter-duty than more heavy duty models.

What is the Cost Difference Between New and Used?

When purchased brand new, metal filing cabinets range from $100 on the low end to $1,000 or more for larger fireproof and specialty cabinets.

Used and refurbished filing cabinets can be found for 50% to 75% less than new models – many times under $500 even for previously expensive cabinets. This makes used an ideal budget option.

How Much Do Fireproof File Cabinets Cost?

New fireproof file cabinets range from around $1,000 up to $4,500 or more for large high security models. Standard used fireproof vertical files typically cost $500 to $1,500+ depending on size, rating, and condition.

How Much Are Lateral File Cabinets Compared to Vertical?

New lateral file cabinets range from around $250 for basic 2-drawer models up to $700 or more for 4-drawer lateral files 60″ wide or larger. Used lateral file costs are typically 40% to 60% less than new.

Lateral files are generally a little costlier than vertical files since they require wider and stronger construction to support sideways operation. But this allows them to fit under desks and windows when vertical cabinets won’t work.

Should I Pay More for Made in USA Models?

There are pros and cons to paying more ($150 or more) for American made metal filing cabinets. Potential benefits include:

• Higher quality materials and craftsmanship
• Better labor protections for workers
• Supporting domestic manufacturing

However imported cabinets can offer decent quality for significantly less cost. Confirm specs and check reviews to make sure any cabinet meets your needs regardless of origin.

Can I Get Discounts for Bulk Office Orders?

Yes, bulk discounts are readily available from most metal filing cabinet retailers. Discounts apply for bulk orders of 10+ cabinets or $1,000+ in purchases. Retailers may offer:

• Volume discounts – Save 5% to 15% off retail costs per unit.
• Free delivery – Free or discounted freight shipping for large orders.
• Space planning – Assistance optimizing floor plans for large installs.

Check with sales reps for current bulk order discount pricing and perks. Significant savings are available on large orders.

Get the Most Value From Your Metal Filing Cabinet

Hopefully this breakdown gives you a better understanding of the factors that influence metal filing cabinet costs. Some final tips for maximizing value include:

• Take time to measure available space anddetermine your ideal size, drawer configurations and features. Accurately matching needs avoids paying for unused capacity.
• Standard vertical files offer good versatility and capacity for most small and medium office settings. Buy only the space you need.
• Consider purchasing quality used and refurbished filing cabinets to save 40% – 60% off retail pricing. Thrift and consignment shops also offer deals.
• Sturdy construction and suspended glides improve weight capacity and lifespan. Plastic glides can wear out faster.
• Remove contents before moving cabinets to prevent damaging glide systems. Exceeding weight limits leads to breakdowns.
• Clean drawer interiors regularly and lubricate slide glides to improve operation and life of the filing system.

Investing in quality metal filing cabinets, whether new or used, returns valuable benefits through secure document storage and space savings for years to come. Paying attention to details like weight limits, locks and glides ensures you maximize your investment while staying within budget constraints.

Conclusion

The cost of metal filing cabinets can range significantly based on the size, construction, features and quality you select. Standard vertical cabinets start around $100, while specialized models with high security and fireproofing run up to several thousand dollars or more. Fortunately quality used filing cabinets are widely available at substantial discounts of 50% less or more compared to new.

Doing some quick measurements, matching required features to your budget, and shopping used inventory can help discover filing cabinets that meet your storage needs at the best possible price point. Investing in durable construction and capacity to support future growth will provide lasting value from your metal filing cabinet purchase or investment.