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Make your purchase (and the files inside) really last The proper care of file cabinets is important to how the units hold up to abuse and maintain their aesthetic appeal. How many times have we heard that we get what we pay for? This concept is exceptionally true in furnishings like filing cabinets that are accessed countless times in a single day by people who are in a rush and often careless. Invest in a safe, sturdy file cabinet that can handle the volume of work you will throw its way. Before placing file cabinets in their permanent location, evaluate convenience and space, and consider safety. Relocating filled file cabinets can be damaging to the structure and performance of the cabinet. |
Beauty vs. strength
Wood file cabinets attract consumers with their rich, inviting grains and lavish hardware. Occasional treatments with wood-care products and tightening of a handle here or there maintain the beauty. Side-by-side with metal file cabinets, wood is aesthetically superior and a fine addition to home offices. However, for high-volume offices, steel file cabinets are maintenance-free, practical, and the most functional choice. Overloading any filing cabinet can be a problem for worker safety and longevity of the cabinet. To avoid overloading, select a file cabinet with more drawers than you estimate you will need - that way, you're prepared for expansion without overload.
The filing system
Setting up a new filing system? Divide paperwork into groups and alphabetize. Prepare hanging folders for general categories, and label file folders so their contents will be clear. Draw up a blueprint according to drawer space and the number of folders you've created. Evenly distribute the weight of the files in all drawers, with the most-used files in the most accessible drawers. Items like heavy catalogs should be placed in bottom drawers to avoid top-heavy cabinets that tip easily; lightweight, rarely used items should be stored in top drawers that might be more awkward to access. Routinely clean out file cabinets to avoid overstuffing and overweight contents.
