Metal cabinets provide sturdy and durable storage solutions for homes, garages, workshops, offices and more. When shopping on a budget, metal cabinets can deliver excellent value as more affordable options compared to wood cabinets. Knowing what to look for when buying inexpensive metal cabinets can help you find cabinets that are both budget-friendly and meet your storage needs.
What to Look for in Cheap Metal Cabinets
When evaluating budget metal cabinets, pay attention to these key factors:
Construction and Materials
Look for cabinets made from strong steel gauges between 18 and 22 gauge. Thicker steel provides more durability. Check that shelves are made of similar gauge steel or strong metal alloys. Sturdy welded joints are better than screws or rivets.
Rust Resistance
Uncoated steel cabinets can rust quickly from moisture exposure. Seek out powder-coated or enamel finishes that resist rust and corrosion. Stainless steel cabinets provide ultimate rust protection.
Door Styles
Common options include solid or perforated double doors that enclose the cabinet fully or open shelves with no doors. Locking doors provide security while ventilation holes promote airflow.
Shelving
Adjustable shelves allow flexible storage arrangements. Stationary shelves may limit storage capacity. Shelves should be sturdy enough for heavy items.
Weight Capacity
Check the cabinet’s weight tolerance for safety. Medium and heavy duty cabinets support 100-400+ lbs per shelf. Match the capacity to your storage needs.
Brand Reputation
Stick with reputable brands known for decent quality at low prices, like Hubble or Durham. Avoid no-name knockoffs with questionable durability.
Where to Buy Inexpensive Metal Storage Cabinets
From big box stores to online retailers, numerous options exist for finding discount metal cabinets:
Home Improvement Stores
Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer a range of metal cabinets at competitive prices. Inventory varies by location. Shop in-store for hands-on browsing.
Warehouse Clubs
Bulk pricing at warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club makes their metal cabinet offerings budget-friendly. Shop in the stores for the best deals.
Discount Department Stores
Discount chains like Walmart and Target have inexpensive storage cabinets along with a variety of sizes and configurations. Online ordering with in-store pickup is convenient.
Online Retailers
Websites like Wayfair and Amazon provide big selections of metal cabinets spanning many budgets. Online shopping makes price comparisons easy.
Used Cabinets
Check classified ads, thrift stores, and secondhand sites for quality used cabinets at significant discounts from new cabinet prices. Refinishing may be required.
Factory Outlet Stores
Manufacturers often operate direct-to-consumer outlet stores offering discounted rates on metal cabinets alongside other storage and household items.
Liquidation Sales
Look for special savings opportunities at liquidation sales, clearance events, and inventory closeouts from big box stores, warehouses, and online sellers. Act quickly for the best selection.
What to Expect to Pay
Pricing for inexpensive metal cabinets varies quite a bit based on size, materials, and features. Here are typical price ranges:
- Small cabinets under 3 feet wide: $50 – $150
- Medium cabinets 3 to 4 feet wide: $100 – $250
- Large cabinets over 4 feet wide: $200 – $400
- Extra large cabinets over 5 feet wide: $300 – $600
Deep industrial shelving units, stainless steel cabinets, and other premium styles run even higher. With some smart shopping, decent quality metal cabinets can be found for everyday household use often starting under $100.
Evaluating Cheap Brands of Metal Cabinets
While top cabinet brands like Tennsco and Sandusky Lee offer outstanding quality, budget buyers can consider these affordable metal cabinet brands:
Hubble
- Known for: Wide range of storage cabinets and shelving at low prices
- Materials: Steel with powder-coated finishes
- Price range: $50 – $300
- Key pros: Good value, good variety, online ordering available
- Potential cons: Quality control issues, instructions may be lacking
Durham
- Known for: Discount tool chests and workbenches
- Materials: Welded steel with powder coating
- Price range: $100 – $400
- Key pros: Sturdy construction, owner reviews are positive
- Potential cons: Limited selection, mostly online purchasing
Origince
- Known for: Small parts storage cabinets and shop furniture
- Materials: Steel with paint or powder coat finish
- Price range: $50 – $150
- Key pros: Compact sizes for tight spaces, very budget friendly
- Potential cons: Thin steel, minimal shelf adjustability
TrippNT
- Known for: Retro-styled metal kitchen carts and cabinets
- Materials: Steel with powder coating
- Price range: $80 – $250
- Key pros: Cute aesthetics, good quality for the low prices
- Potential cons: Very limited selection, not great for heavy duty use
Factors to Consider When Buying Cheap Metal Cabinets
Evaluating your needs and priorities can help you select the best inexpensive metal cabinets for your purposes:
Where Will the Cabinet Be Used?
- Indoor vs. outdoor use
- Dry vs. damp environments
- Garage, basement, kitchen, etc.
What Will Be Stored in the Cabinet?
- Tools, hardware, archive files, pantry goods, etc.
- Weight capacity needs
- Shelving configuration preferences
Desired Size, Style and Finish
- Dimensions (height, width, depth)
- Stationary vs. mobile cabinets
- Solid door vs. open shelving
- Color/finish options wanted
Easy Assembly and Installation
- Ready to assemble vs. pre-built
- Wall-mounted, free-standing or floor-anchored
Quality and Durability Needs
- Light household vs. heavy industrial use
- Steel thickness and construction methods
- Rust resistance level needed
Tips for Getting the Best Deal on Metal Storage Cabinets
Follow these tips to help stretch your cabinet buying budget:
- Measure your space carefully so you don’t buy a cabinet that’s too small or large
- Compare pricing across multiple retailers, including online and in local stores
- Watch for sales around major holidays and clearance events
- Consider gently used cabinets from resale sources
- Buy when you see deals, even if you don’t need the cabinet right away
- Avoid high-priced add-ons like custom colors or engraving
- Order online for lower prices, even from local stores’ websites
- Buy cabinet packs or multi-unit sets for better bulk value
- Keep your color, size, and style options flexible
- Make sure you have help for moving very large cabinets
With the right research and planning, you can equip your home or workspace with sturdy metal cabinets without breaking the bank. Prioritize your key needs, watch for bargains, and take advantage of online ordering for significant savings on your next metal cabinet purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Metal Cabinets
How much do inexpensive metal cabinets usually cost?
Basic metal cabinets start around $50 for small parts cabinets and can range from $100 to $400 for medium to large storage cabinets on the cheaper end. Deep industrial shelves and premium models cost more.
What are some of the best places to buy discount metal cabinets?
Great places to find budget metal cabinets include big box stores like Home Depot and Walmart, warehouse stores like Costco, online retailers like Amazon and Wayfair, factory outlet stores, and classified resale sites.
Should I choose wood or metal cabinets for an inexpensive option?
Metal is generally cheaper than solid wood. However, lower grade plywood cabinets can also be budget-friendly. Consider factors like durability, weight, rust resistance, and aesthetics for your purposes.
Can you paint cheap uncoated metal cabinets?
Yes, inexpensive raw steel cabinets can be painted using a metal primer and latex enamel paint for color and added rust resistance. Degrease and scuff the surface first for proper paint adhesion.
How much weight can inexpensive metal shelves hold?
Basic household metal cabinet shelves typically hold 100-150 lbs safely, while sturdier garage or workshop units hold 200-400+ lbs per shelf. Verify weight capacities before overloading shelves.
Is some assembly required for budget metal cabinets?
Often yes, you will need to attach doors, shelves, and other components. However, ready-to-use options are also available. Review details to determine if assembly tools and skills are needed.
Can you customize cheap metal storage cabinets?
Limited customization like adding shelves or alternative casters is sometimes possible. But extensive mods like paint colors or engraving generally aren’t offered at the lowest budget pricing.
Are used metal cabinets a good money-saving option?
High quality used metal cabinets can provide big savings if you can find them in good condition. Carefully inspect and test used cabinets for damage prior to purchasing.
Should I hire professionals to install inexpensive metal cabinets?
If you are anchoring to the wall or floor, a handyman may be a good idea. But most basic assembly and setup of free-standing metal cabinets can easily be DIY.
What are the best tips for saving money on metal cabinets?
Compare prices online, measure precisely, inspect condition, buy ahead of needs, purchase in bulk, avoid unneeded add-ons, consider gently used items, and watch for sales and clearances.
Conclusion
Finding high quality metal cabinets for low prices just takes some savvy shopping skills. Evaluate your storage needs, measure your space carefully, and compare options and reviews. With flexible timing, creative sourcing, bulk buys, and avoiding unnecessary extras, you can equip any space with sturdy metal cabinets without breaking your budget. Use these tips to save money while still getting cabinets that meet your specific storage needs.
What Are the Best Affordable Metal Filing Cabinet Options
Metal filing cabinets provide secure document storage and organization for home offices, businesses, schools, and more. While premium grade steel filing cabinets can be quite pricey, low cost options are available that still get the job done on a tight budget. This guide examines affordable filing cabinet styles, top picks, and savvy shopping tips.
Best Low-Cost Metal File Cabinet Styles
These filing cabinet styles offer durable functionality at more reasonable prices:
Vertical Filing Cabinets
The classic vertical design with drawers sized for hanging folders. Most common and budget-friendly option. Sizes range from 2 to 5 drawers high. Desks or tabletops can be attached on top. Look for models around 18″ deep or more for standard files.
Lateral Filing Cabinets
Long and low lateral filing units hold hanging folders side-to-side instead of front-to-back. Typically selected when floor space is limited and deeper desk access is preferred. Units with around 30″ depth fit regular folders.
End Tab Filing Cabinets
Drawer hardware allows hanging folders to be organized by end tabs rather than being filed sideways. Handy for thicker files requiring quick search and retrieval. Only slightly more expensive than traditional vertical cabinets.
Drawer Pedestal Files
Free-standing pedestal units with top access drawers hold files or office supplies. They offer a small footprint and easy mobility. Single pedestals provide minimal storage while 2 to 4 unit pedestals offer significant capacity.
Used/Refurbished Filing Cabinets
Seek out quality used office furniture businesses for secondhand files at a fraction of original cost. Older steel construction may be superior to new budget options. Look for legal/letter sizing. Refurbishing may be required.
Top Picks for Cheap Filing Cabinets
Here are some of the best budget-friendly filing cabinet brands and models to consider:
- HON Arrival File Cabinet – Sturdy vertical option for $200-300 range. Many sizes from 2-5 drawers. Mexican-made quality by HON. Pricier than most discount files but solid reputation.
- Balt Calla Filing Cabinet – Affordable imported lateral wood/metal hybrid cabinets for under $400 for a typical 2-drawer width. Durable and compact. Nice looking. Limited size range.
- Bankers Box Liberty File Cabinet – Basic vertical files around $100-150. Particle board over steel. Few frills but gets the job done on a very tight budget. Multiple colors. Made in China.
- Boss Bizchair File Cabinets – Vertical pedestal cabinets priced at $80-150. Sturdy steel with capacity up to 2700 sheets. Attractive options in 3 heights with 2-4 drawers. Locking available.
- Haskell Lateral File Cabinet – Budget-friendly lateral files from $250-400. Made of laminated engineered wood over steel with attractive finishes. Slim space saver profile but still fits letter-sized folders.
- Sentry Safe Fire-Resistant File Cabinet – Security and fire safety in one! 2-hour fire rating plus locking drawers. 30 minutes over 1550??F. 2 or 4-drawer vertical units $400-600 range. 500 lb capacity.
Shopping Strategies for Affordable Filing Cabinets
Use these insider tips to score the best deals on low-cost filing cabinets that fit your needs:
- Shop used office furniture stores – Open box, refurbished, and secondhand files offer big discounts over new. Vintage steel files can be terrific finds.
- Measure carefully – Get precise room and doorway dimensions to ensure an adequate size match and easy delivery access.
- Browse big box and warehouse stores – Stores like Costco and Sam’s Club have competitively priced options.
- Buy online – Online retailers often beat local store prices, even for bulky items. Check shipping fees first.
- Wait for sales – Specials around holidays, Black Friday, clearance events can slash prices 30% or more. Off-season has best deals.
- Stick to vertical files – Skip fancy functions or lateral styles for basic vertical filing at the lowest costs.
- Consider entry level brands – Loss of some features brings cheaper models from brands like Hubble or Tennsco.
- Get folding handles – Recessed handles cost less than fixed handles protruding from drawers.
- Check drawer slide quality – Avoid sloppy slides that bind or catch. Ball bearing slides are best.
- Weigh construction – Thicker steel means better quality but a higher price tag. 18 gauge steel is fairly decent.
- Examine paint and finish – Glossy powder coat beats basic matte paint for durability and longevity.
A bit of smart sleuthing can uncover excellent metal filing values to organize documents and free up work space on a strict budget. Prioritize must-have features like secure locks and then size up all the discount deals available both online and locally. With the right affordable file cabinet, you’ll reclaim order from paperwork chaos without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Metal Filing Cabinets
What are the typical price ranges for low-cost filing cabinets?
- Vertical 2-drawer: $100 – $300
- Vertical 4-5 drawer: $200 – $500
- Lateral 2-3 drawer: $250 – $500
- Used steel files: $50 – $150
What sizes of folders do low-priced vertical filing cabinets hold?
Most standard vertical budget filing cabinets accommodate letter or legal sized hanging folders. Make sure the drawer depth is at least 18 inches for easy folder access.
Should I get wood or metal cheap filing cabinets?
For fire safety and durability, inexpensive all-metal filing cabinets are best. Particle board over steel offers some cost savings but doesn’t last as long. Solid wood files are rarely budget-friendly.
Is fire protection available for affordable filing cabinets?
Yes, certain models like the Sentry Safe Fireproof Vertical File offer 2+ hour fire ratings at moderate costs under $600. Look for independent lab certification of fire resistance.
Can I get locking filing cabinets without spending more?
Basic key locks add little cost. More advanced technologies like combination or biometric locks cost extra. Locks deter casual intruders but aren’t foolproof. Always secure sensitive items even in locked files.
How thick should the steel be for discount filing cabinets?
18 gauge steel or thicker provides decent durability in budget-friendly vertical filing cabinets. Some lateral files use thinner steel over wood cores to save on costs while maintaining needed rigidity.
Should I assemble cheap filing cabinets myself?
Some basic skills with tools for screw fasteners is handy for DIY assembly, but most budget filing cabinets can be put together fairly easily following included instructions. Have helpers for large lateral files.
How do affordable lateral filing cabinet prices compare to vertical ones?
Laterals are generally $50 – $100+ more than a similar vertical model. The long horizontal design requires thicker steel and more welded joints, increasing manufacturing costs.
Can I get custom colors on low-priced metal filing cabinets?
Maybe. A few budget home office furniture brands offer a couple colorful options (red, blue, gray, etc.) for $20-50 upcharges. Don’t expect wide customization without paying premium prices.
How can I get filing cabinets for the very cheapest cost?
Hits the classified ads and used office furniture stores for quality previously-owned steel filing cabinets. With some polish and new drawer hardware, used files become fabulous deals starting at $50. Just confirm legal or letter size.
What are the best money saving tips for buying low-priced filing cabinets?
Measure precisely, check reviews, take advantage of sales/clearances, consider refurbs or used items, avoid fancy features, examine construction quality, buy online and consider ready-to-assemble options to save the most on necessary filing cabinets.
Conclusion
Filing cabinets are a vital organizational tool, but premium models come with high price tags. With a bit of research, however, very serviceable vertical and lateral metal filing options are readily available for under $500 in a range of sizes and configurations. Prioritize key features like decent steel gauges, sturdy drawer slides, and legal/