A hanging file cabinet is one type of tool often used to keep papers and files organized, both at home and in the office. Several varieties are available with a number of different choices that may factor into your decision. Size, security, and mobility are a few items to research. Extra features and the type of hanging mechanism used might also sway your decision.
The space you have available for a hanging file cabinet will likely influence the size and shape you get. They usually come in vertical or horizontal types. Vertical pieces take up less wall space than horizontal ones, but the drawers generally pull out much further. If this is an issue for you, you might prefer a horizontal version that uses more wall space, but allows for a large number of files to be used in a drawer that is fairly shallow.
Mobility of the hanging file cabinet can also be another consideration. You might need one that stays in your home office for occasional use. If you are very mobile and need access to your files on a regular basis, you might choose to use a mobile hanging file cabinet. There is also an option for those who choose to keep their files in their office, but still need it to be somewhat mobile. Using a piece that is on casters allows you to move it around a room or office.
Security is another consideration when purchasing a hanging file cabinet. If nobody else has access to the location of the files, you might feel confident in using one that does not have locking capabilities. In open offices or businesses with many employees, it may be more practical to choose to use a cabinet that locks. This might help keep certain documents confidential.
Clamps or carrier strips are the two ways usually used to hang items in a hanging file cabinet. You might prefer to avoid using file folders and instead might use clamps to contain papers within your cabinet. Folders are a good choice if you have a variety of materials that need to be separated and categorized.
A number of types offer a few extra features such as non-tipping and fireproof varieties. Especially when vertical cabinets are used, non-tipping models might be very desirable to help avoid tipping. In addition, if it is important to you to preserve the documents housed within your system, one that is resistant to fire and water might be important to you.