Second hand filing cabinet

Types of second hand filing cabinet

A second hand filing cabinet is a piece of office furniture used for document storage and organization that has been previously owned or used before being resold or repurposed. These cabinets are often sold at a lower price point than new filing cabinets, making them a cost-effective option for businesses or individuals seeking filing storage solution. Like new cabinets, they come in various sizes, styles, and materials, just as with new cabinets. They are typically used in offices, home workspaces, or other environments that require organized document storage. Depending on the condition, these cabinets may show some signs of use or wear but are often still functional and in good shape for continued use. What are the different types of second-hand filing cabinets? Here are the different types of used filing cabinets in the market:

• Vertical filing cabinets: These cabinets are organized with drawers that are stacked straight one above the other. They are used for files that are pulled out vertically. The drawers are usually more narrow than those in a lateral filing cabinet. They work well when space is limited. The vertical filing cabinets are organized and make better space for documents that are organized hanging from tabs in the drawer. They tend to take up less floor space compared to lateral cabinets.
• Lateral filing cabinets: This cabinet organizes files in drawers that are next to each other. The drawers are wider and are better suited for files that are organized hanging sideways. They are good for offices that have more room to go sideways instead of straight back. The Lateral filing cabinets hold more files in less space because the drawers are wider and can hold more files that hang sideways. They are easier to see all at once when pulling out multiple files.
• Cabinet with locks: A lockable filing cabinet is a storage box for important papers that can be locked to keep them safe. It has drawers with tracks to organize documents in order. There are vertical ones that stack straight or lateral ones that sit side by side. Lockable cabinets protect files from being seen by locking them. They are especially needed for confidential or sensitive documents that should be kept private and locked cabinets are better for files that are hanging organized in drawers that are pulled straight out or those that are organized hanging sideways.
• Cabinet without locks: These cabinets provide a more affordable option for organizing documents without the added expense of a locking mechanism. They still offer a professional appearance and durable construction. They may be more suitable for offices or home environments that do not require high-security file storage.
• Wooden filing cabinets: They add a warm, professional look to offices. They are more durable and can look more refined. They come in many styles to match what is wanted. A used wooden filing cabinet can be more affordable and still work well for what is needed. They may show some character from previous use, but that can add to their charm. A used wooden filing cabinet often has the benefit of being more environmentally friendly by not using new materials.
• Metal filing cabinets: These are more durable and able to resist bumps and scratches more than wooden ones. Metal cabinets give a clean, professional look. They are easier to keep clean and maintain. A used metal filing cabinet may have some wear from being used before but that shows it is proven and still works well. They are often more secure with locking drawers. They are also more fire-resistant than wooden ones.

Features and functions of second hand filing cabinet

Used filing cabinets are important in the office space. They help keep important documents and files organized and safe. They come with different features and functions that are important for any work office space. Here are some of them:

• Storage drawers

  All used filing cabinets come with drawers that offer storage space for files and documents. They are spacious and have the space to store many files. The drawers have rails and hooks that help organize files and documents. They are also easy to pull out and push in. The storage drawers are important as they keep files and documents in order and are easy to retrieve.

• Lock and key

  Lock and key are an important feature of used cabinets. Some cabinets have a locking system with keys that employees can access and others that cannot. The locking system ensures that important documents and files are safe and confidential. They protect sensitive files from being damaged or lost.

• Metal frame

  The metal frame is an important feature of a second hand filing cabinet. The metal frame ensures the cabinet is durable and can be used for a long time. It also ensures the cabinets are stable and can stay upright when loaded with files and documents.

• Label holders

  Label holders are a common feature of used filing cabinets. The label holders allow files and documents to be organized properly. They make it simple to access and retrieve files when needed. The label holders save time as employees will not spend time trying to find files that are needed. The label holders are important as they ensure files and documents are in order and kept in a safe place.

• Rollers

  Rollers are an important feature of used file cabinets. The rollers are located at the bottom of the cabinet, and they allow the cabinet to move from one place to another easily. The rollers are important in an office space because, with time, they can become full of files and documents. Sometimes, the office space may need to be changed, and with the rollers, it will be easy to move the cabinet to a different location.

Scenarios of second hand filing cabinet

Second-hand filing cabinets are versatile and essential in various professional settings and industries. Their primary function is to provide organized storage for important documents, which is necessary in numerous scenarios. Here are some common scenarios in which a second-hand filing cabinet is used:

• Office Workspace

  Law Firms: Filing cabinets are used to store and organize legal documents, case files, contracts, and client correspondence. They ensure easy access to critical paperwork when needed.

  Corporate Offices: These cabinets store a wide range of documents, including reports, employee records, memos, and administrative paperwork. They help maintain a clutter-free workspace and efficient document retrieval.

  Healthcare Facilities: In medical offices, clinics, and hospitals, filing cabinets store patient records, medical charts, billing information, and insurance documents. They ensure patient information is securely stored and easily accessible.

• Home Office

  For remote workers or those running a business from home, second-hand filing cabinets provide a space-saving solution for organizing important documents. They help maintain a professional work environment and ensure easy access to paperwork when needed.

• Creative Agencies

  Advertising Agencies and Design Studios: These agencies use filing cabinets to store project files, contracts, client briefs, design mock-ups, and invoices. They help in organizing and retrieving creative materials efficiently.

• Educational Institutions

  Schools and Universities: Academic institutions utilize filing cabinets to store student records, transcripts, administrative documents, and academic materials. They ensure confidential student information is securely stored.

  Libraries: Filing cabinets in libraries may store cataloging records, administrative documents, and historical archives. They help in organizing and preserving information.

• Non-Profit Organizations

  Non-profits and Community Organizations: These entities use filing cabinets to store grant applications, donations, meeting minutes, and program-related documents. They help in managing and organizing important paperwork efficiently.

• Government Agencies

  Public Sector Offices: Government agencies, local municipalities, and public institutions rely on filing cabinets to store records, permits, licenses, and official documents. They ensure compliance with record-keeping regulations.

• Accounting and Financial Services

  Accountants and Financial Advisors: Filing cabinets store tax returns, client financial statements, investment documents, and accounting records. They ensure the secure storage of sensitive financial information.

• Human Resources

  HR Departments: These departments use filing cabinets to store employee records, resumes, performance evaluations, and payroll documents. They ensure confidential employee information is securely stored and easily accessible.

How to Choose Second Hand Filing Cabinet

When choosing a used office filing cabinet, it is important to look at a few details to ensure that what is being purchased is in good condition and will serve the intended purpose as required. Consider the following elements before buying a used filing cabinet:

• Assess Your Storage Needs

  Determine the amount of space needed for documents and files. This will help in deciding whether to get a cabinet with one or more drawers. Also, consider what type of files are needed to store and the size as well.

• Check The Material

  Used cabinets are made from either steel or metal. These materials are durable and will ensure that the filing cabinets last for a long period. They are also easy to clean and maintain. There are also cabinets made of wood that will give a classic and warm appearance to any office space. Consider the material that is more suitable for the office space and that is within budget before buying a used filing cabinet.

• Locking Mechanism

  In most offices, there are confidential files that need to be kept in a safe place. Locking drawers will ensure that there is security for such files and documents. When purchasing a used cabinet, consider choosing one that has a lock and key to ensure the security of all valuable files.

• Check Drawer Functionality

  Once the decision has been made on which used filing cabinet to buy, it is important to check if the drawers are working properly. Slide the drawers in and out to see if they are functioning smoothly. Take a test on all the drawers to ensure they are working as required. It is also important to check the handles to see if they are loose or wobbly.

• Check For Damage

  Before settling on a used filing cabinet, it is important to inspect it carefully for any damage. Look for dents, scratches, or any rust spots. If possible, check the interior of the drawers and look at the edges and corners to ensure that they are in good condition. If there are any bent parts, now is the best time to straighten them out and put the filing cabinet back in place.

• Consider The Size And Space

  Ensure that the used office filing cabinet will fit the space available in the office. It is also important to consider the office layout and ensure that there is enough space for the filing cabinet. Taking measurements is important to ensure that the cabinet will fit in the office without any problems.

• Check The Price

  When buying a used office filing cabinet, it is important to check the price to ensure it is within budget. Sometimes, these cabinets can be expensive, but by shopping around, it is possible to find one that is more affordable and meets all the storage requirements.

second hand filing cabinet Q&A

Q1: Are there any drawbacks to buying a second-hand filing cabinet?

A1: One possible disadvantage of purchasing a second-hand filing cabinet is that it may not come with all the features of a new model, such as locking mechanisms or adjustable shelves. Additionally, the cabinet could have cosmetic damage or missing parts. However, thoroughly inspecting the cabinet before purchase can help avoid these issues.

Q2: What should I look for when buying a second-hand filing cabinet?

A2: When buying a second-hand filing cabinet, it is important to check for any dents, scratches, or rust. Dents and scratches are a sign that the filing cabinet may not be as durable, and rust could mean it is already damaged. It is also important to check if all the drawers are working properly and if the locks are too damaged or broken.

Q3: What is the average size of a filing cabinet?

A3: The average size of a filing cabinet is 14 to 18 inches. This is the width of most filing cabinets. As for the depth, they usually range from 24 to 30 inches. The height of a filing cabinet depends on the number of drawers it has. For example, a two-drawer filing cabinet will measure approximately 30 inches high. A three-drawer cabinet will be 40 inches high, while a four-drawer cabinet will be 50 inches high.

Q4: What are the types of filing cabinets?

A4: There are several types of filing cabinets. Vertical filing cabinets organize files in a cabinet that is taller than it is wide. This works well for offices that have limited floor space. Horizontal filing cabinets are the opposite of vertical cabinets. They organize files in a drawer that is wider than it is deep. They are ideal for offices that have more surface space but limited depth.

Q5: How can one clean a metal filing cabinet?

To clean a metal filing cabinet, use a soft cloth and dip it in warm, soapy water. Wipe all the surfaces and remove dirt and dust. Once done, the drawer tracks can be cleaned using a damp cloth and a little bit of vinegar.