Lateral vs. Vertical

So it's time to buy a Fireproof File Cabinet. First question...Should you buy a Lateral or a Vertical Cabinet? The Answer... There are a couple of things to think about when deciding between the two options. Making sure you get the most filing space for your money is as important to K.L. Security as it is to you - so here are a few things to think about before you make your decision.

First of all, how much filing space do you need? Actually measure your documents - Do you have 50 inches of files? 200 in? This is very important becuase if you have over 104 inches but less than 152 inches, a lateral might be your best option.

Second, are there any space restrictions? This is very important because when it comes right down to it if it won't fit, there is no sense in debating. Keep in mind, Laterals come in varying widths so there are options, but if you have less than 30 inches in width, Vertical it is!

Both Vertical and Lateral cabinets can accommodate Letter or Legal size files. If you need to store Legal size documents and are looking at Vertical cabinets make sure you get one that is Legal Size. You can store Letter size in a Legal size file cabinet, but not vise versa. If you decide on a Lateral cabinet you will be able to store both sizes regardless of which width you choose.

Now for some numbers....

Vertical File Cabinets are available in 20", 25", and 31" Depths. Meaning, inches worth of filing space per drawer can vary. Take the Depth x No. of Drawers and that will give you the total inches of filing space.

We will use Four Drawer cabinets for an example as they are purchased most frequently.

Four Drawer 20" has an interior depth of 15 inches for a total of 60 inches.
Four Drawer 25" has an interior depth of 20 inches for a total of 80 inches.
Four Drawer 31" has an interior depth of 26 inches for a total of 104 inches.

Lateral file cabinets are measured in widths instead of depth. They are available in 30", 36", and 43" widths.

Four Drawer 30" has an interior width of 25 inches for a total of 100 inches.
Four Drawer 36" has an interior width of 31 inches for a total of 124 inches.
Four Drawer 43" has an interior width of 38 inches for a total of 152 inches.

As you can see, you get quite a bit more filing space out of a Lateral cabinet vs a Vertical cabinet. Now you just need to figure out how much space you have available and make your decision! Of course, as always if you have any questions feel free to give us a call and we will help you with your decision.

Toll Free 866-867-0306