
Lateral Files









Avery Shelf Lateral Files come in a range of colours and formats that can be colour coded to suit your document storage needs. Small files can be easily stored and larger documents can be housed in lever arch files or expandable files depending upon your preference.
Tab, folder and label colour variations allow for a myriad of options that take the boredom out of filing and also save time by allowing you to access your files quickly when you need them the most.
Lateral Filing FAQs
How Do Lateral Files Work?
Lateral files are pretty straightforward. They're set up like a chest of drawers but for your papers. Each drawer extends from the short side of the cabinet, and your file folders run from side to side inside the drawer. This way, you can see all your files at once when you pull open a drawer, making it easier to find what you need without having to flick through a stack.
How Many Files Does a Lateral File Cabinet Hold?
The number of files a lateral file cabinet can hold depends on its size and the thickness of your files. A typical two-drawer lateral file can hold hundreds of files. If you've got a cabinet that's around 760 mm wide, you could fit in around 200-300 files per drawer, depending on how stuffed your folders are.
What Size Is a Lateral File?
Lateral files come in different sizes. Most commonly, they're around 760 mm wide, but you can find them ranging from 760 to 1070 mm wide. The height can vary too, from about 715 mm for a two-drawer model up to 1340 mm for something with four drawers. Just measure up your space to find the best fit.
How Do You Keep Files Upright in a Filing Cabinet?
To keep your files standing upright in a filing cabinet, use file holders or hanging file frames. These sit inside the drawer and keep your files neatly lined up. Some cabinets come with built-in bars or wires for this purpose.
What Are Lateral Files?
Lateral files are a type of filing system used in cabinets where the files are stored side by side, facing outwards. They're different from vertical filing systems, where files are stacked on top of each other. Lateral file folder systems are great for easy viewing and access, and they usually offer more space per drawer, making them ideal for offices with lots of paperwork.