Lateral file cabinets are one of the most basic types of file storage and are very popular among people. Lateral cabinets are considered to be the most efficient way of conventional filing. They provide significant storage space for lots of files, and they provide easy accessibility for stored documents. They are capable of high-capacity filing in a centralized storage area for any organization.

Lateral cabinets come in various sizes and with lots of features. The lengths of lateral Filing cabinets primarily vary from 32, 36, to 42 inches and the depths vary from 15-20 inch depths. The lateral filing system comes with features like side tab folders and top tab file folders that have proved to be very effective. They are normally filed from left to right, almost in the same way as in the shelf file arrangement. Because of these practically usable features, they can store files, file folders, documents, binders, books, reams of paper and many other things.

The most popular models have pull-out units which permit top tab or side tab file folders to be used. The pull-out drawer features generally require about 30 inches of aisle clearance space for full access.

These cabinets are among the most versatile of all filing units and can be used equally well for legal and letter size files. They are significant in terms of cost and floor space requirements. The cost of lateral cabinets and the space that they occupy is a bit high, but it is justified by the features they offer. Like vertical files, lateral cabinets also offer the advantages of controlled access with locks and fire resistance. They are coated with insulating material and are equipped with manual, electronic, or combination locks for security purposes. Ordinary cabinets without these features are also available in the market, but it is always good to go for a quality one.