Storage & Filing — Lateral File Cabinets — Expert Answer

Should I buy a lateral or vertical file cabinet — what's the difference?

Lateral cabinets are wide and shallow (30–42 inches wide, 15–20 inches deep), filing left to right, with higher per-unit capacity and a usable flat top surface. Vertical cabinets are narrow and deep (15–18 inches wide, 24–28 inches deep), filing front to back, with a lower price point and a smaller footprint that fits into tight spaces. For meaningful filing volume, laterals offer better capacity, faster access, and more flexibility. Verticals make sense when floor space is extremely limited or budget is the primary constraint. At FindOfficeFurniture.com we carry both types — call 888-719-4960 to compare options for your specific needs.
← What is a lateral file cabinet?…Do lateral file cabinets hold letter-size and legal-size fil… →