Moving a metal filing cabinet requires some planning and preparation to do it safely and efficiently. A filing cabinet can be quite heavy, awkward to move, and easy to damage if not handled properly. Following some simple steps can make moving day go much more smoothly when relocating a metal cabinet.

Assess the Filing Cabinet

• Take a close look at the filing cabinet to determine its size, construction, weight, and any special moving considerations. Make note of the following:
  • Size – Measure the height, width, and depth of the cabinet. This will help determine if it will fit through doorways or into elevators.
  • Weight – If loaded with files, it can weigh 300 lbs or more. Lifting equipment may be needed.
  • Drawers – Are they full or empty? Full drawers add weight and can shift contents during moving.
  • Locking casters – High-quality locking casters make moving easier. Engage the locks to keep the cabinet in place when parked.
  • Construction – Is it made of thin sheet metal or thick steel? Thin metal dents easily.
  • Special considerations – Any protruding handles or accessories? Glass doors? A heavy top surface? These affect how to lift and maneuver it.
• Also check that the drawers open, close, and lock securely so contents don’t spill out during the move.

Tips for Assessing a Metal Filing Cabinet

• Test the weight by tilting the empty cabinet. Get a sense of how heavy and awkward it will be when loaded.
• Inspect the casters to ensure they roll smoothly and the locks work properly. Fix or replace damaged casters beforehand.
• Take photos from all sides to document any existing dents, scratches, or damage in case of issues during the move.
• Measure doorways and elevators to ensure the cabinet will fit through. Measure it diagonally if needed.
• Read the manual for specific instructions from the manufacturer, if available.

Prepare the Filing Cabinet for Moving

Once the cabinet is assessed, take these steps to get it ready for moving day:

Remove Contents

• Empty all drawers completely. This significantly reduces weight.
• Disassemble any hanging file folders or interior accessories.
• Label each drawer to keep files organized. Number the drawers and shelves.
• Box up file contents neatly and mark boxes to match the drawers.

Lock and Secure Components

• Lock all cabinet drawers with keys. Tape drawers shut to keep them from sliding open.
• Lock the casters in place so the cabinet stays fixed in position when parked.
• Secure the top to the cabinet if detachable. Use moving straps or temporary fasteners.
• Remove or tighten any detachable handles, hooks, or protruding accessories.

Protection and Wrapping

• Use blankets, bubble wrap, or foam pads to protect the exterior surfaces from dents and scratches.
• Tape down any small protruding hardware, handles, or accessories that could catch and break off.
• Load cabinet contents into sturdy file boxes and label carefully.
• Disassemble any components like pedals or shelves if possible.

Arrange Proper Equipment and Helpers

Moving a large metal filing cabinet requires two to four able-bodied persons, depending on the weight and size. Use equipment like:

• Appliance dolly or hand truck – Use for a small 2-3 drawer cabinet. Tilt and slide the cabinet onto the dolly base.
• Furniture dolly – Allows laying the cabinet horizontally and strapping it onto the dolly.
• Specialty filing cabinet dollies – Custom made four-wheel dollies that filing cabinets sit on vertically. Lock the casters.
• Lifting straps – Allows two people to share the weight between them. Helps maneuver awkward sizes safely.
• Ramps or skates – Makes rolling the cabinet over thresholds and obstacles easier. Prevent tipping.
• Padded lifting bars – Allows two or more lifters to share the load evenly across shoulders and arms.

Tips for Moving Equipment

• Use dollies rated for the cabinet’s weight and lock the wheels.
• Confirm doorway, hallway, and elevator widths accommodate the dolly size.
• Appoint one person to direct and steer the dolly movers.
• Test ramps, skates, and lifting straps with an empty cabinet first.
• Brief helpers on lifting techniques like bending knees, keeping the back straight, and communicating.

Moving Techniques for Filing Cabinets

When moving day arrives, use these techniques to safely transport a metal filing cabinet:

Lifting a Filing Cabinet

• Position helpers around cabinet to lift from sturdy base points. Minimum 2 people for small cabinets.
• Assign one person as leader to count down and direct.
• Keep back straight, bend knees, grasp base tightly, and lift in unison on the count of 3.
• Walk very slowly and take small coordinated steps. Have a person guide if needed.
• Lower together by bending knees and keeping the cabinet level and stable.

Using Dollies and Ramps

• For dolly: Lock wheels. Tilt cabinet back and slide dolly underneath. Roll slowly.
• For ramps: Keep cabinet upright and have helpers on both sides for support and stabilization.
• For stairs: Tilt dolly back and go one stair at a time. Use spotters above and below.
• Lock wheels after passing over thresholds. Take care not to catch moldings or corners.

Moving Through Doorways

• Measure the opening to ensure sufficient clearance.
• Use a furniture skate or small wheeled dolly to pass the cabinet over raised thresholds.
• Tilt the cabinet diagonally if needed to fit through a narrow opening.
• Station spotters on both sides of any doorway or tight passage.

Using Elevators

• Use elevators large enough to accommodate helpers and cabinet.
• Align the cabinet evenly across elevator door opening before loading.
• Lock dolly wheels and position spotters to keep the load stable.
• Check weight limits and load elevator evenly. Overloading can be dangerous.
• Use ramps for small thresholds when loading or unloading the elevator.

Transporting on Moving Trucks

For long distance moves, filing cabinets can be transported on moving trucks if properly prepared:

• Empty contents into labeled boxes and transport separately.
• Disassemble any detachable bases, shelves, or other components.
• Lay the cabinet horizontally and strap securely to the truck bed. Avoid sliding.
• Pad and wrap the cabinet in moving blankets, paying special attention to the corners.
• Use rugs or rubber mats under the cabinet to avoid scratches.
• Place heavier items underneath lighter cabinets to keep the truck load balanced.
• Avoid stacking other objects on top that could dent the cabinet.
• Tape removable hardware like handles inside drawers or doors.

Set Up the Filing Cabinet in the New Location

Once moved into the new space, set up the filing cabinet properly:

• Roll into the desired position and lock the casters.
• Reattach any components like bases or shelves that were disassembled.
• Remove moving blankets and padding. Wipe down external surfaces.
• Remove drawer taping and locking mechanisms. Test that drawers open smoothly.
• Reinstall hanging file frames, shelf dividers, labels, and any accessories.
• Reload file boxes in the proper drawers according to labels.
• Adjust drawers if needed to open and close evenly without rubbing.
• Check that any locks work correctly and all keys are accounted for.
• Discard any used moving materials and packing debris.
• Review the owner’s manual and warranty info if available.

With some strategic preparation and the right techniques, moving a metal filing cabinet can be manageable. Just take it slowly and get assistance to prevent injuries or damage. Proper tools and planning make all the difference in keeping contents organized and the cabinet in good shape throughout the relocation process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Metal File Cabinets

Still have questions about how to move a metal filing cabinet? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:

How much does a loaded filing cabinet weigh typically?

• A four-drawer legal or letter size cabinet can weigh 300-500 lbs when fully loaded. Mini 2-3 drawer models may weigh 100-200 lbs loaded.

How many people are needed to move a filing cabinet?

• Two to four people are ideal depending on size. Use proper lifting techniques, equipment, and coordination among helpers.

What is the easiest way to move a filing cabinet?

• Use an appliance hand truck or a specialty filing cabinet dolly you can tilt and strap the cabinet onto. This allows rolling it like a wheeled object rather than lifting.

Can filing cabinets go on their side when moving?

• Yes, laying a cabinet horizontally allows sliding it onto a dolly base or truck bed for strapping down. Just empty contents first to avoid spilling inside.

How do you secure a filing cabinet in a truck?

• Empty all drawers. Lay the cabinet horizontally on a truck bed. Secure firmly with ratchet straps and pads to avoid sliding.

How do you get a filing cabinet up stairs?

• Use a furniture dolly tilted back to roll up one stair at a time. Or transport empty cabinet and contents separately. Use ramps for a few stairs.

What is the best way to move a 4 drawer filing cabinet?

• Remove contents into labeled boxes. Tilt and slide onto a specialty filing cabinet dolly upright. Lock the wheels and roll carefully. Use straps or bars for added stability if needed.

How do you move a big filing cabinet by yourself?

• It’s not recommended to move a large cabinet solo. Get at least one helper and use appropriate equipment like dollies, straps, and ramps meant for heavy furniture. Take all safety precautions.

How do you move a fireproof filing cabinet?

Fireproof cabinets are very heavy. Removing contents and using a tilt-back dolly or hand truck is easiest. Get helpers since fireproof cabinets can weigh 600-1000 lbs. Prep the route and have many helping hands.

Key Takeaways on Moving Metal Filing Cabinets

• Assess cabinet size, weight, construction, and special handling needs before moving.
• Empty contents into labeled boxes. Secure shelves, hardware, and glass.
• Use dollies and equipment rated for the weight. Get helpers to share the heavy lifting.
• Protect surfaces with blankets and pads. Tape down hardware and drawers.
• Move slowly and communicate. Remove doors if needed. Use ramps at thresholds.
• Transport large cabinets lying horizontally and firmly strapped in moving trucks.
• Set cabinet up properly at new location. Check drawers and reinstall components.
• Follow safety precautions and get assistance. Don’t overload dollies or elevators.
• Take it slowly and carefully to prevent injury or damaging this heavy-duty office furniture during relocation.

How to Move a Metal Filing Cabinet Safely

Moving a metal filing cabinet requires careful preparation and handling to prevent injuries or damage. When loaded down with documents, these sturdy cabinets can be extremely heavy and unwieldy. Having the proper equipment and techniques makes this move much smoother and safer.

Steps to Prepare a Filing Cabinet for Moving

To get a metal cabinet ready for loading and transport:

• Remove all contents – Lighten the load as much as possible
• Secure drawers – Tape them closed and lock if possible
• Detach accessories – Remove shelves, hanging rails, etc.
• Pad and wrap – Use quilts, pads, and stretch wrap to protect the finish
• Mark handles and hardware – Tape small parts into drawers to prevent loss or breakage
• Measure dimensions – Note the cabinet footprint to maneuver doorways and elevators
• Examine the casters – Make sure wheels roll smoothly and locks engage properly
• Assess weight – If extremely heavy when empty, remove drawers to lighten

Key Tips for Prepping a Metal File Cabinet

• Label drawers and contents carefully for reloading later
• Photograph any existing scratches or damage to document condition
• Empty locked drawers using bolt cutters if keys are lost
• Test wrap and pad on side/back first before covering front
• Use temporary fasteners if needed to secure detachable parts
• Check owner’s manual for any special instructions

Best Practices for Moving Filing Cabinets Safely

Follow these vital safety tips when moving day arrives:

• Use dollies and hand trucks designed for weight and size
• Assign one person to direct the move and communicate
• Recruit enough helpers – don’t overexert or use improper form
• Brief everyone on lifting methods and safety before starting
• Keep the item low and close to the body when lifting
• Avoid twisting – move feet instead and pivot the whole body
• Use team lifting techniques – lift together on a synchronized count
• Walk very slowly and take small coordinated steps
• Set cabinet down gently; don’t release or drop the load suddenly
• Use spotters near doorways and with dollies on stairs or ramps
• Load dollies and trucks properly to avoid tipping or shifting
• Secure ramps and clear debris from the moving path
• Rest and regrip as needed; get help for fatigue

Critical Reminders for Safe Moving

• Lift from the legs by bending knees, not bending at the waist
• Maintain neutral spine alignment when lifting – no slouching
• Wear gloves and shoes with grip for maximum hold on the cabinet
• Communicate clearly to coordinate movements as a team
• Review the weight limits for equipment and elevators
• Stop immediately if something doesn’t feel right

Techniques for Moving Filing Cabinets in Various Situations

Carefully follow these techniques tailored to different moving scenarios:

Moving Up or Down Stairs

• Use ramps for a few stairs; tilt dolly for multiple flights
• Remove drawers on long stairs to lighten load
• Make wide turns; pivot at landings – don’t scrape walls
• Place spotters above and below on stairs
• Move slowly – take one step at a time

Moving Over Thresholds

• Check clearance and remove doors if needed
• Use ramps or rolling skates for small lips
• Tilt dolly back and raise front wheels slightly
• Keep cabinet squarely aligned when passing thresholds

Transporting on Moving Trucks

• Remove contents and drawers to lighten weight
• Lay cabinet horizontally and strap tightly in place
• Use pads, blankets, rugs to avoid scratches
• Place heavier items underneath cabinets
• Tape hardware inside drawers and top
• Avoid stacking other items on top

Moving Through Elevators

• Verify door opening and interior size accommodates cabinet
• Keep cabinet balanced and centered when rolling inside
• Lock dolly wheels once positioned inside
• Use ramps or skates for small elevator lips
• Check weight limits and distribute load evenly
• Have spotters inside to stabilize the cabinet

Setting Up a Filing Cabinet in the New Location

After transport, take care when setting up the cabinet:

• Remove pads, wrapping, and other moving materials
• Reinstall any parts like shelves that were detached
• Make sure keys work and casters roll smoothly
• Wipe down the exterior and fix any minor cosmetic damage
• Reload drawers carefully according to content labeling system
• Adjust or lubricate sticky drawers; tighten handles if loose
• Verify aligns properly with no rubbing or catching
• Discard debris and moving equipment no longer needed

With some muscle and know-how, a metal filing cabinet can be moved safely and with minimal hassle. Just take it slow and use the proper precautions and techniques.

Supplies and Equipment for Moving Metal Filing Cabinets

Moving heavy filing cabinets requires having the right supplies and equipment to do the job safely and efficiently. Here are some recommended items to have on hand:

Hand Trucks and Dollies

• Two-wheel hand truck – For small vertical cabinets. Has a narrow profile to fit doorways.
• Four-wheel cabinet dolly – Allows tilting the cabinet to roll on the wheels. Excellent for heavy cabinets.
• Appliance dolly – For moderate size/weight cabinets. Straps hold cabinet on angled dolly.
• ** Heavy duty furniture dolly** – For large lateral filing cabinets. Allows laying horizontally.
• Consider stair climbers and drive extensions for navigating stairs with dollies.

Ramps, Skates and Floor Protection

• Furniture ramps – Provides a smooth angled transition over thresholds and lips. Avoid jarring the cabinet.
• Furniture skates – Roller devices placed under cabinet legs or base to glide over bumps and thresholds.
• Plywood or masonite sheets – Lay sheets on floors as a smooth protective surface for sliding dollies and cabinets.
• Cardboard, plywood, or plastic – Place between dolly wheels and carpeting to avoid tearing or leaving marks.

Securing and Padding Supplies

• Quilted moving pads – Softer surface protects cabinet finish against dents, dings, and scratches.
• Movers blankets – Thickly padded blankets provide cushioning during transport and loading/unloading.
• Bubble wrap – Adds protective barrier around protrusions and vulnerable corners.
• Tape – Secures padding, mark hardware locations, prevent drawers shifting.
• Tie-down straps – Ratchet straps secure cabinet tightly onto dollies or truck beds.
• Furniture sliders – Temporary devices attach under cabinet legs to provide smooth sliding over floors.

Lifting Devices and Gripping Tools