Determining the value of a used metal filing cabinet depends on several factors, including its condition, quality, size, features, and demand. With metal filing cabinets ranging vastly in price when new, assessing the current market value of a used one requires careful consideration.

Introduction

Metal filing cabinets have long served as reliable storage solutions in both homes and offices. While technology has reduced reliance on paper filing systems, traditional metal cabinets remain popular for their durability, security, and style. When purchasing used, it is important to inspect condition, construction, dimensions, and features to determine fair market value.

This guide examines key factors in evaluating used metal filing cabinets to help sellers price them appropriately and buyers avoid overpaying. It also provides tips for refurbishing used cabinets to increase value. With a basic understanding of what affects resale pricing, both buyers and sellers can better navigate the used market.

Condition

The single most important factor in determining used metal filing cabinet value is its physical condition. Excellent condition commands higher prices versus poor condition. Evaluate the following areas to rate overall condition:

Paint & Finish

• Like new with no scratches or chips? Increase value.
• Major finish wear, flaking, or rust? Decreases value.
• Small scratches or chips are okay if cabinet is otherwise pristine.

Drawers

• Slide smoothly without catching or rubbing? Adds value.
• Do they open/close properly without sagging or sticking? Big value boost.
• Bent, warped, or damaged drawers hurt value significantly.

Locks

• Fully functional locks in all drawers increase worth.
• Broken/missing locks or keys reduce pricing.

Structure

• Sturdy with no dents, bends or damage? Ideal for top dollar.
• Major dings, bends, or other structural issues decreases resale potential.

Take time inspecting all surfaces, hardware, and functionality. Be thorough checking for damage or wear-and-tear. Pricing correlates directly with condition – excellent commands premium pricing while poor condition plummets value.

Quality & Brand

Used metal filing cabinets from leading manufacturers and top-quality models command higher pricing versus no-name budget brands. Well-known brands include:

• Hon – Industry leader renowned for quality and durability. Pre-owned Hon cabinets fetch excellent resale value.
• Bisley – Another premium brand that holds value well on the secondary market. Made to last decades.
• Hirsh – Produces commercial-grade metal cabinets ideal for office use. Used models sell easily.
• FireKing – Specializes in fireproof cabinets, a unique niche. Used FireKing products are in demand.
• Mayline – Sought-after manufacturer specializing in office furniture including filing cabinets.

Research the original MSRP and specifications of the cabinet brand and model to gauge expected worth on the used market. Brand reputation greatly influences perception of quality and longevity.

Size

Filing cabinet size also affects resale pricing. Measure external dimensions anddrawer capacity. Standard sizes include:

• 2-drawer – Typically 15-18 inches deep x 28-30 inches high. Offers minimal storage.
• 3-drawer – 18-20 inches deep x 40-52 inches high. Most common size.
• 4-drawer – 18-20 inches deep x 52-56 inches high. Maximizes filing storage.
• Lateral – 36-42 inches high x 30-36 inches wide. Requires minimal floor space.

Pricing generally correlates to size – 4-drawer upright units command the highest value while 2-drawer units sell for less. Lateral file cabinets are niche products that hold value well when in good condition.

Features

Special features can increase a used metal filing cabinet’s worth if functionality remains intact:

• Locking – Most desirable feature. Locks in all drawers substantially boosts value.
• Fireproof – Insulated cabinets protect documents from fire damage resulting in higher pricing.
• High-density – Smaller drawer heights maximize storage. Appeals to buyers needing compact filing.
• Lateral – Side-to-side design minimizes footprint. Unique specialty item.
• Central locking – Simultaneously locks all drawers. Added convenience feature.
• Rolling cabinet – Built-in casters for easy mobility. Eliminates need for dolly.

Evaluate and highlight any special features while noting missing or malfunctioning ones. Document features marketing the cabinet if possible. Rare or unique attributes pique buyer interest.

Refurbishing to Increase Value

With some effort, used metal filing cabinets can be restored to boost value. Refurbishment options include:

• Thorough cleaning – Removes grime and dust from all surfaces, hardware and drawer interiors.
• Touch up paint – Conceals scratches, chips and any minor cosmetic flaws in the finish.
• Replace locks – Install new locks and provide matching keys in any non-functioning drawers.
• Lubricate slides – Use wax or dry lubricant on tracks/rollers for smooth drawer operation.
• Tighten hardware – Tighten loose hinges, pulls and structural fasteners.
• Organize drawers – Remove old contents and insert file folders to organize each drawer.

Refurbishing requires an investment of time and money but can significantly increase resale value. Even basic cleaning and touch-ups make a major difference in perceived condition.

Current Market Value

Actual selling prices for used metal filing cabinets vary based on many factors:

| Condition | Brand | Size | Features | Typical Value Range |
|-|-|-|-|-|
| Excellent | Premium | 4-drawer | Locks, fireproof | $275 – $400 |
| Good | Mid-range | 3-drawer | Scratches, no locks | $100 – $200 |
| Fair | Budget | 2-drawer | Worn finish, damage | $50 – $125 |

Monitor selling prices on classifieds sites for comparable items based on the criteria above to gauge fair market value. Expect to price at the lower end of ranges shown. Determining an optimal asking price can require some trial and error.

Where to Buy/Sell Used Metal Filing Cabinets

The used market for metal filing cabinets includes:

• Classified ads – Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace offer local sales
• Consignment shops – Display a mix of household furnishings and fixtures
• Office supply stores – Some deal in secondhand office furniture and filing cabinets
• Auctions/Estate Sales – Opportunity to acquire cabinets alongside other estate contents

When buying used, inspect thoroughly prior to purchasing. When selling, clean and make any needed repairs in advance to justify higher pricing. Photographing cabinets helps market them to prospective buyers in online listings.

Is it Worth Buying Used?

Purchasing a quality used metal filing cabinet can represent a significant value over a new budget-priced model. Advantages of buying used include:

• Lower cost – 50% or more below retail price of a new cabinet.
• Premium brands – Opportunity to own top-tier cabinets for a fraction of original cost.
• Vintage appeal – Older styles can provide retro charm.
• Environmentally friendly – Reuses existing products rather than incurring new manufacturing impacts.

Evaluate construction, components, and features carefully to ensure satisfactory quality. Scrutinize condition and test functionality prior to purchase. Buying used does carry some risk that a “lemon” performs poorly. However, with diligence, used metal filing cabinets offer an affordable storage solution.

Key Takeaways

• Physical condition is the primary determinant of a used metal filing cabinet’s worth – excellent condition commands premium pricing.
• Leading cabinet brands like Hon, Hirsh, and FireKing hold value well on the resale market.
• Standard 2, 3 & 4-drawer upright models vary in price based mainly on size/capacity.
• Special features like locks, fireproofing, high-density, and casters boost resale potential if still functional.
• Refurbishing through cleaning, paint touch-ups and replacing locks can significantly increase value.
• Current pricing ranges widely based on size, brand, features and physical condition from $50 to $400.
• When buying used, thoroughly inspect condition and test performance prior to purchase.

Knowing what factors influence resale value helps both buyers and sellers assess fair pricing for used metal filing cabinets. Taking time to inspect and refurbish pays dividends for sellers able to justify higher asking prices. Overall, used metal filing cabinets represent an affordable and environmentally-friendly solution for adding storage capacity on a budget.

How to Determine the Value of a Used Metal Filing Cabinet

If you are looking to buy or sell a used metal filing cabinet, determining its current value takes some research and inspection. Several key factors influence what a used cabinet is worth including brand, size, condition, features, and demand. Here is a detailed guide to help assess fair market pricing when buying or selling used metal filing cabinets.

Examine Condition

A used filing cabinet’s condition greatly impacts value. Carefully inspect the following:

• Outside surfaces – Check for scratches, dings, chips in the paint and finish. Assess wear and fading.
• Drawers – Do they open and close smoothly without rubbing or catching? Damage hurts value.
• Locks – Fully functional locks in all drawers substantially boosts worth.
• Structure – Look for dents, bends, or other damage. Check sturdiness when moving cabinet.

Ideally the cabinet appears nearly new with minimal signs of use. Severe finish wear, sticking drawers, and structural damage significantly reduce resale potential. Rate condition from poor to excellent.

Verify Quality

Brand name and features impact perception of quality. Research the original specifications and MSRP for the cabinet model. Well-known brands include:

• Hon – The bestselling brand, known for reliability and durability.
• FireKing – Specializes in fireproof cabinets, very desirable.
• Hirsh – Produces sturdy office-grade cabinets, holds value.
• Mayline – Respected manufacturer, especially for office furniture.

Lesser known or budget import brands have lower resale value. Check that features like locks, casters and fireproofing function properly if present.

Measure Dimensions

Filing cabinet size affects value:

• 2-drawer – Usually 15-18″ deep x 28-30″ high. Offers minimal storage.
• 3-drawer – 18-20″ deep x 40-52″ high. Most common and versatile size.
• 4-drawer – 18-20″ deep x 52-56″ high. Maximizes filing capacity.
• Lateral – 36-40″ high x 30-36″ wide. Uses minimal floor space.

Pricing typically aligns with size/storage capacity. Measure the cabinet’s external dimensions to determine size and drawer configurations.

Assess Special Features

Features that boost functionality, convenience and security add to resale potential if still functioning properly. Consider:

• Locking – Locks in all drawers are ideal. Missing or broken locks reduce value.
• Fire rating – Insulated fireproof construction protects documents.
• High density – Compact drawer height maximizes storage.
• Centralized locking – Simultaneously locks all drawers.
• Casters – Wheels for easy mobility.

Note missing or non-working features that could affect pricing. Rare attributes like fireproofing create strong interest among buyers.

Compare Prices of Similar Listings

Check current asking prices for cabinets comparable to yours on classified sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. Compare based on:

• Brand
• Size/number of drawers
• Overall condition
• Features present

This gives you an idea of real-world value based on actual seller listings, trending lower than retail. Expect to price at the lowest end of ranges for similar cabinets. Consider refurbishing to reach higher price points.

Consider Refurbishing

Some minor refurbishment can boost a used filing cabinets value significantly:

• Clean inside and out removing dust, dirt and grime
• Touch up paint to conceal any scratches and chips
• Lubricate drawer slides for smooth operation
• Tighten hardware like hinges and pulls
• Replace any broken/missing locks and keys
• Add drawer organizers and custom label holders

Refurbishing requires some investment, but can allow pricing a cabinet higher in a more competitive market. Even basic cleaning makes a major perception difference to buyers.

Know the Best Places to Buy or Sell

The used market for metal filing cabinets includes:

• Classified listings – Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, newspaper ads
• Consignment shops – Offer mix of used home & office furnishings
• Office supply stores – Some deal in secondhand furniture and cabinets
• Auctions/Estate sales – Opportunity to acquire cabinets alongside other contents

For selling, highlight features, provide measurements, and photograph the cabinet to create attractive listings. When buying, thoroughly inspect condition prior to purchasing.

Key Takeaways

• Excellent condition commands premium pricing versus poor condition which plummets value
• Leading brands like FireKing and Hirsh hold value well versus budget import models
• Standard sizes vary in price primarily based on drawer configuration/capacity
• Functional features like locks, casters and fireproofing boost resale value
• Check sold listings for comparable cabinets to gauge real-world market prices
• Refurbishing can allow pricing a used cabinet higher in competitive markets

Considering these key factors helps set fair asking prices for used metal filing cabinets. Buyers should inspect thoroughly and compare listings to find good value. Proper pricing and marketing enables sellers to successfully liquidate used cabinets.

What Affects the Worth of Pre-Owned Metal Filing Cabinets

Metal filing cabinets range hugely in original retail cost from budget to premium models. When purchasing secondhand, many factors determine what a used cabinet is worth. Sellers should consider these variables when pricing used cabinets. Buyers should evaluate them to avoid overpaying.

Condition – The Most Critical Factor

How “gently used” is it? A cabinet’s physical condition is the number one consideration for pricing.

• Minimal wear makes it highly desirable and valuable.
• Severe scratches, dings or damage create very low value.

Carefully inspect:

• Paint & finish – Chips, fading and wear reduce value.
• Drawers – Smooth, even movement is ideal. Damage creates problems.
• Locks – Fully functional locks in all drawers boosts price.
• Structure – No bends or dents. Sturdy when moving.

Cosmetic flaws can be touched up. But bent metal, inoperable drawers, or locks can’t be easily fixed. Condition ranges from poor to pristine.

Brand & Quality Count Too

The reputation of the manufacturer impacts price. Models from top brands include:

• Hon – The industry leader in quality and durability. Commands premium pricing used.
• FireKing – Specializes in fireproof cabinets. Very desirable and sought-after pre-owned.
• Lyon – Known for sturdy construction and longevity. Holds value well.
• Tennsco – Budget-friendly brand but solidly built. Good option used.

Research original specifications and MSRP. Lesser known or import brands have lower resale appeal. Buyers want reassurance of quality.

Size Matters

Filing cabinet dimensions play a role too. Measure:

• 2 drawer – Typically 15″ D x 28″ H. Minimal storage limits value.
• 3 drawer – 18″ D x 40-52″ H. The most common and versatile size.
• 4 drawer – 18″ D x 52-56″ H. Maximal storage boosts worth.
• Lateral – 36-40″ H x 30-36″ W. Unique niche item.

Standard vertical cabinets offer more value as drawer capacity increases. Lateral file cabinets are special use but draw strong interest.

Key Features

Special features that still function properly increase worth:

• Locking drawers – Big value boost if all drawers can be locked.
• Fireproof – Insulated cabinets protect documents in a fire.
• Rolling – Casters built in for easy mobility.
• Central locking – One key locks all drawers simultaneously.

Note any unique attributes versus missing ones. Rare specialty features create buyer interest and enable higher asking price.

Refurbishing Adds Value

Some TLC can raise a used cabinet’s value. Consider:

• Thorough cleaning inside and out.
• Touch up paint on scratches and chips.
• Replace worn/missing locks and provide keys.
• Lubricate slides for smooth drawers.
• Tighten loose hinges or hardware.

While requiring some investment, refurbishing transforms perception and allows pricing at the higher end of the range.

Compare Local Listing Prices

Check listings in your area for comparable used cabinets. Look for similar:

• Brand
• Size
• Condition
• Features

This helps set realistic pricing aligned with local market demand. Expect to price at the lowest end of ranges for similar cabinets.

Consider Buying and Selling Venues

The used market includes:

• Classifieds – Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, newspaper ads
• Consignment shops – Mix of household furnishings
• Office supply outlets – Some deal in secondhand furniture
• Estate sales/Auctions – Acquire alongside other contents

Each venue differs in accessibility and work required for buying/selling.

Key Takeaways

• Condition drives value – pristine is premium, severe flaws mean low pricing
• Leading brands command higher pricing. Locking features boost value.
• Size relates directly to capacity and storage potential.
• Refurbishing can significantly increase worth.
• Check comparable local listings for real-world pricing guidance.

Considering all these factors enables informed negotiations for fair pricing