How to Dispose of Metal Filing Cabinets

Disposing of old metal filing cabinets requires some planning and effort, but can be accomplished with minimal fuss by following these steps. With the right approach, you can remove unwanted filing cabinets in an eco-friendly manner.

Reasons to Dispose of Metal Filing Cabinets

Here are some common reasons you may want to get rid of your metal filing cabinets:

• Switching to digital file storage – As more records become digital, physical filing cabinets take up unnecessary space.
• Office relocation – When moving offices, old filing cabinets are often left behind to avoid heavy lifting.
• Office redesign – Filing cabinets can obstruct room layouts and interior design updates.
• Damaged goods – Cabinets that are broken, rusted or not functioning properly need to be removed.
• Outdated styles – Some filing cabinets are eyesores and no longer fit a business’s image.
• Improper installation – Poor installation like blocking doors or windows prompts removal.

Preparing Filing Cabinets for Disposal

Before getting rid of metal filing cabinets, some prep work is advised:

• Remove all files and clear out all drawers completely. Shred any sensitive documents.
• Take out removable drawer pulls and hardware and set aside if keeping.
• Clean the cabinets thoroughly inside and out and wipe out any dust.
• Unbolt and detach any accessories like sliding shelves, locks or cabinets linked together.
• Measure cabinet dimensions and weight to determine transport needs.
• Call disposal companies to compare rates if hiring professional removal.
• Gather necessary tools like screwdrivers, work gloves and hand trucks.
• Schedule a waste pickup date if your disposal method requires it.

How to Dispose of Metal Filing Cabinets

There are several environmentally responsible ways to dispose of old metal filing cabinets:

Donate

• Charities, schools, churches, community centers and small businesses often accept donated filing cabinets that are still usable.
• Contact organizations directly to find ones accepting donations. Some may even pick them up.
• Ensure cabinets are clean and fully emptied before donating.

Sell

• Selling old filing cabinets can recoup a small amount of cash.
• Online platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and eBay allow you to list cabinets for local pickup.
• Printing photos and detailed descriptions can boost interest for online sales.
• Disclosing any defects helps set reasonable expectations for buyers.

Recycle

• Metal recycling centers accept filing cabinets and often pay by the pound.
• Remove any non-metal parts like wood or plastic shelves before recycling.
• Call ahead for requirements on condition, weight limits and any additional sorting needed.
• Some waste management companies will pick up metal filing cabinets curbside on recycling day if properly prepared.

Trash

• Filing cabinets in poor shape can be taken to the dump or put on the curb for trash collectors.
• Remove any hazardous components like batteries from electronic locks before tossing.
• Break down cabinets into pieces if too bulky for standard pickup.
• Avoid illegal dumping which can incur hefty fines. Always use authorized waste sites.
• Be sure to check if metal disposal is banned from landfills in your area first.

Hire Junk Removal

• Junk removal companies specialize in hauling away bulky items like filing cabinets.
• They do the heavy lifting and disposal with trucks equipped for large junk loads.
• Rates are usually reasonable with some companies offering free estimates.
• Some removal services advertise eco-friendly recycling of junk they collect.

Transporting Metal Filing Cabinets

Maneuvering bulky filing cabinets requires some finesse:

• Remove drawers to reduce weight and transport cabinets one at a time if possible.
• Use an appliance dolly, hand truck or furniture sliders to efficiently roll cabinets.
• Tilt the cabinet back and wheel vertically to better control movement.
• Clear a path by removing doors if necessary and obtain help moving very heavy cabinets.
• Rent a pickup truck if delivering cabinets yourself to donation centers or sell sites.
• Protect floors by laying plywood or blankets when sliding filing cabinets along the floor.

Safety Tips

Observe these precautions when getting rid of old metal filing cabinets:

• Wear protective gloves to avoid cuts from sharp metal edges.
• Get someone to assist with tilting and lowering extremely heavy cabinets.
• Make sure discarded cabinets won’t pose tripping hazards for others.
• Never try to move too-heavy cabinets by yourself to prevent injury.
• Take care when loading cabinets onto trucks using ramps.
• Ensure filing cabinets are fully empty before attempting to move them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I can’t move a filing cabinet on my own?

Call on friends, family or neighbors for help moving heavy cabinets. If that’s not possible, use a dolly or hire professional movers or a junk removal service to transport filing cabinets safely.

How can I find someone who wants my old metal filing cabinets?

Post ads online or put up flyers at places like schools, churches and community centers. Also call local businesses to see if they could use extra cabinets for storage.

Is it better to dismantle or move filing cabinets whole?

For safety and ease of handling, remove drawers and break down cabinets into lighter components before moving when possible. But keep intact if donating to maximize usefulness.

What should I do if a cabinet is too heavy for normal trash pickup?

A junk removal service used to hauling heavy items is best for extremely heavy cabinets. Or you can transport to a dump site yourself using a rented pickup truck and furniture dolly.

Can I put filing cabinets out for bulk trash collection?

Check your municipal garbage collection rules first. Some require special pickup for large metal items or prohibit them from bulk trash. Break down into smaller pieces if allowed.

What precautions should I take when removing old cabinets?

Clear out pathways, wear gloves to avoid sharp edges, enlist help moving heavy ones, watch for tripping hazards like rails, protect floors from scratches, and make sure drawers are emptied.

Conclusion

Discarding old metal filing cabinets requires careful prep and the right technique for moving bulky metal furniture safely. With some planning, manpower and proper disposal, you can clear out old metal cabinets in an environmentally friendly way. Your effort pays off with reclaimed space and a decluttered environment. Just be sure to research disposal options and take safety precautions when transporting heavy filing cabinets offsite. With the help of junk removers, charities, recyclers and online marketplaces, those outdated cabinets can be removed from your life for good.