Where to Buy Metal Storage Cabinets

Metal storage cabinets are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of settings, from garages and basements to offices and classrooms. When searching for metal storage cabinets, it’s important to consider factors like size, style, durability, and budget. This comprehensive guide provides tips on determining your needs, breaks down the differences between various metal cabinet types, and recommends the best places to purchase quality metal storage cabinets.

Determining Your Metal Storage Cabinet Needs

Before beginning your search, take inventory of what you intend to store in your metal cabinets. Consider the following:

• Size – Measure the space where you plan to put the cabinets. Make sure to account for any doors or hardware that may impact the measurements. Take notes on the sizes of items you’ll store inside so you can find cabinets that will properly fit them.
• Weight – Estimate the total weight of what the cabinets will hold. Some cabinets have weight limits, so this will help you choose an appropriately sturdy option.
• Use – How will you use the cabinets? Frequent access, archive, garage, office, classroom? Certain cabinet styles work better for specific purposes.
• Number – Determine how many cabinets you need to properly store everything. Measure linear feet to find the right amount.
• Style – Locking or open? Drawers, shelves, doors, or a combination? Narrow down the ideal layout and access options.

Considering these factors beforehand ensures you purchase the properly sized and styled metal storage cabinets. Now let’s explore the types of metal cabinets available.

Metal Storage Cabinet Types

Metal cabinets come in many configurations to suit a wide range of storage needs. Here are some of the most common styles:

Locking Cabinets

Locking metal cabinets offer secure storage with latching doors or drawers. They come in a range of sizes and are popular for uses like storing tools, equipment, documents, and records. Key benefits include:

• Security features like locks or combination dials
• Full-length doors or multiple drawers
• Durable steel construction
• Vented panels or louvers for air circulation
• Customizable interior shelf configurations
• Available with smooth or textured finishes

Locking cabinets provide safe, controlled storage and are ideal for workplaces, garages, basements, and more.

Open Shelving Cabinets

Open shelving cabinets have visible storage space unobstructed by doors or drawers. The open design allows for easy access and visibility of contents. Benefits include:

• Available with or without backing panels
• Adjustable shelves can be moved or removed
• Weight capacities over 200 pounds
• Assembly-free for quick installation
• Ideal for retail displays, workshops, pantries, janitorial storage and more

With flexible configurations and heavy-duty steel construction, open shelving units are multi-purpose. The visibility deters theft in public areas.

Lateral File Cabinets

Lateral file cabinets store documents and records in wide side-by-side drawers. Compared to vertical drawers, lateral files reduce bending and lifting. Key features include:

• Wide low-profile design provides ergonomic access
• Roll-out drawers extend 20-22 inches
• Counterweight mechanisms allow smooth opening and closing of loaded drawers
• Built with durable steel framing and powder-coated finishes
• Available in 2, 3, 4, or 5-drawer models
• Optional locks for security

Lateral filing cabinets are staples in offices and record storage rooms. Their shallow profile uses space efficiently.

Parts Storage Cabinets

Parts storage cabinets neatly organize hardware, tools, jerseys and all kinds of small components. They have small removable bins, dividers and trays customized to the contents. Benefits include:

• Perfect for organizing hardware parts, arts supplies, medical components, etc
• Removable compartments allow total configurability
• Label holders identify bin contents
• Available in cabinet, chest, or shelving designs
• Durable industrial-grade steel construction
• Available with smooth or textured powder-coated finishes

Parts cabinets save time locating loose components in busy workspaces and industrial settings. Everything has an organized place.

First Aid Cabinets

First aid cabinets contain medical supplies for treating injuries and illnesses in offices, schools, factories and more. Features include:

• Clearly labeled exterior identifies first aid contents
• Lockable doors keep supplies secure yet quickly accessible
• Molded plastic or metal interior with shelves and trays
• Large cabinets hold bulk first aid items and full kits
• Wall-mounted small cabinets for basic supplies
• Built solidly of steel with white or red powder-coated finish

First aid cabinets must be highly visible and readily available in emergencies. They organize critical health and safety equipment.

Where to Buy Quality Metal Storage Cabinets

Once you determine your ideal metal cabinet type, it’s time to purchase. Here are some of the best places to buy metal storage cabinets:

Home Improvement Stores

Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s have a great selection of metal storage cabinets in stock. Benefits of purchasing here include:

• Instantly take cabinets home without waiting for delivery
• Inspect cabinet quality, doors, drawers, shelves first-hand
• Avoid potential shipping damage
• Get help from knowledgeable sales associates
• Conveniently purchase locks, labels, shelving and accessories
• Make easy returns by taking cabinets back to the store

The hands-on shopping experience is ideal for carefully evaluating your options. Home improvement stores have competitive pricing and carry trusted brands.

Online Retailers

Shopping online opens up many more metal cabinet styles and brands. Benefits include:

• Huge selection of sizes, colors and configurations
• Order specialty cabinet types like parts organizers or first aid cabinets
• Shop major brands like Tennsco, Sandusky, and Durham along with commercial quality labels
• Save money with online-only prices, discounted shipping costs
• Read reviews from other buyers to help choose quality products
• Use sizing filters and guides to find cabinets guaranteed to fit
• Enjoy convenient home delivery ordering storage cabinets online gives you more variety without the hassle of hauling them home yourself.

Direct From Manufacturers

Purchasing metal cabinets directly from manufacturers like Lyon, Lista, or Datum often has advantages:

• Buy directly from the source for the lowest prices
• Choose from the full product catalog, including premium options
• Get help customizing cabinet configurations from company experts
• Work with knowledgeable representatives efficient ordering and shipping
• Qualify for discounts on bulk orders and business accounts

Buying straight from manufacturers eliminates retailer markups. You get the most options working directly with specialists.

Office Furniture Stores

Office furniture showrooms offer high-quality lateral filing cabinets, parts storage, and more tailored to business needs. Benefits include:

• Test fully adjustable drawers and premium ball-bearing slides
• Experience smooth opening of heavy, fully-loaded drawers
• Take advantage of volume discounts on large orders
• Get help designing complete matching office suites
• Have coordinated delivery and professional installation
• Enjoy excellent warranties and after-purchase service

For outfitting entire offices, specialized office furniture dealers provide an integrated experience.

Used / Surplus Dealers

Finding used metal cabinets saves substantially on costs. Consider these benefits:

• Cabinet grades like new, very good, or fair condition clearly labeled
• Low prices on quality used commercial cabinets from liquidations
• Satisfaction guaranteed with return policies for defects
• Save up to 70% versus buying brand new
• Environmentally friendly way to reuse instead of discarding
• Shopping by category and browsing visual catalogs is easy

When placed in home or business settings, used metal cabinets look great and meet storage needs practically and economically.

Key Considerations When Purchasing Metal Cabinets

Keep these important tips in mind to choose durable and functional metal cabinets:

• Buy more capacity than you think you need – It’s smart to allow for future growth to prevent running out of space. Having room to expand into avoids an immediate need for more cabinets.
• Measure carefully – Double check all interior and exterior dimensions as well as door/drawer clearances. Measure twice to ensure an ideal fit.
• Confirm weight capacities – Make sure to account for the total weight of everything stored inside. Exceeding cabinet limits risks collapsed shelves or other damage.
• Read third-party reviews – Don’t rely solely on manufacturer specs. Reviews from other buyers using cabinets day-to-day provide you with unbiased opinions on true quality and durability.
• Compare pricing – Shopping around ensures you don’t overpay. Use the web to quickly compare options and sales across brands and sellers.
• Examine details – Inspect joinery, welds, door alignment, drawer slides, and fit/finish. Quality cabinets should have clean construction without chips or scratches.

Following these key tips helps you invest wisely in metal cabinets built to serve your needs for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Purchasing Metal Storage Cabinets

What are metal storage cabinets typically made from?

Metal cabinets are most often constructed from cold rolled steel which is durable and economical. More heavy duty options use 18 gauge or thicker steel for strength. Finishes include powder coating, enamel, or stainless steel.

What thickness should the steel be?

For maximum durability, look for metal at least 18 gauge (0.048 inches) thick, ideally 16 gauge (0.060 inches) or more. The lower the gauge number, the thicker and stronger the steel.

How much weight can metal storage cabinets hold?

Weight capacities range from 200 to 500 pounds depending on drawer slide and shelf support ratings. Multi-drawer cabinets typically have lower per-drawer limits than large wide span shelves.

What kind of locks do metal cabinets have?

Common locking options include pin tumbler or disc tumbler key locks, combination dial locks, and electronic keypad or fingerprint locks for enhanced security.

Can I request custom sizes or configurations?

Many manufacturers can accommodate custom cabinets. Exact dimensions, drawer layouts, color and more can be tailored at an added cost over standard production models.

Should I assemble cabinets myself or pay for professional installation?

Assembly is generally easy with included hardware and instructions. However, for built-in cabinetry or large orders, professional installers can save significant time and ensure proper alignment.

What are metal storage cabinets used for?

Metal cabinets have thousands of uses including storing office records, automotive parts, work tools and equipment, art and school supplies, hardware inventory, janitorial items, medical supplies and much more.

How much do metal storage cabinets cost?

Pricing varies widely based on size, materials, and features. Expect to pay $100 to $300 for a basic cabinet. Large steel cabinets or full cabinet sets cost $500 to $2,000 or more.

Where can I buy good quality used metal storage cabinets?

Check used office furniture dealers, school surplus auctions, and online classifieds like Craigslist. Liquidators like Everything But The House and Second Use sell high-grade used cabinets at discounts.

Conclusion

Finding the right metal storage cabinets to meet your needs is simple when you understand the available options. Measure your space, identify how cabinets will be used, and review the many styles and buying considerations outlined here. Shopping at home improvement stores, online retailers, direct manufacturers or office dealers allows you to browse thousands of metal cabinet configurations and prices to uncover the perfect choices. Investing in quality metal cabinets from reputable sources ensures they withstand years of service organizing and protecting your important items or supplies.