Flat filing applies to the person looking to manage items or documents of a particular size that may not fit or store easily in traditionally sized filing cabinets. There are various types of flat filing units, and sometimes it is hard to determine which unit best fits your needs. Just Filing Cabinets offers this buying guide so that when you place your order you can be confident you have selected the ideal product for your needs. The specifications and components that make up flat filing units include the drawer style and security. This guide is designed to break down each category for you.

Flat Files

Flat files are used to store two dimensional documents. The capacity of the drawers in a flat filing unit depends on the stock of the paper and how often the documents need to be accessible. Flat files are available in a variety of materials including fiberboard and steel. Some flat filing units provide more protection for fragile documents, such as a more pH balanced drawer environment.

Legal vs. Letter

Some flat files are available in one of two different drawer types, legal or letter. Legal documents measure 8.5 inches by 14 inches. Legal-sized drawers can also accommodate letter documents, which are 8.5 inches by 11 inches. There are also flat filing units available in larger drawer formats to accommodate documents such as plan files.

Lock vs. No Lock

Many users look for flat filing cabinets with locks to secure their documents. Locks help to prevent unauthorized access which is especially important when dealing with sensitive or confidential files. Flat filing cabinet locks are generally key-operated. When looking for a locking unit, be sure to read the product description carefully. Some manufacturers choose to offer lock kits separately from the actual filing unit. Such products on our website contain notes that prompt you to check out the items related to the product you are considering. Flat filing cabinets are also available without locks. This may be more appealing in an office where multiple people are using the same flat filing unit.

Glossary of Key Terms

• Legal Document: Legal-sized documents measure 8.5 inches by 14 inches.
• Letter Document: Letter documents are document measuring 8.5 inches by 11 inches.
• Lock Kit: A kit, sold separately from the filing cabinet, in which to add a locking device to a filing cabinet. When these kits are available for an item you are considering, there will be a note to direct you them.
• Casters: Casters are wheels on the bottom of a filing cabinet that make it easier to move. Some casters include locking features to help keep the filing unit stationary when it needs to be.