Finding affordable used metal file cabinets can be a challenge. With more businesses going paperless, quality used file cabinets are becoming scarce. But with some perseverance and insider tips, you can track down the perfect previously-owned file cabinet for your office or home.
We will cover everything you need to know about buying a used metal file cabinet. You’ll learn where to look, what to inspect, how to transport it, and even how to refresh an older cabinet. Let’s dive in!
Buy Used File Cabinets Locally
Searching locally is the best way to inspect a used file cabinet before purchasing. There are several places nearby that often have used metal cabinets for sale:
Office Furniture Liquidators
Businesses frequently liquidate office furniture for various reasons – bankruptcy, closure, merger, relocation etc. Specialty liquidators acquire these assets and sell them to the public at steep discounts.
Visit liquidators in your area to browse their ever-changing inventory. Examine each cabinet closely since some may have damage or missing keys. Well-rated liquidators include:
- Office Liquidators
- Used Cubicle
- Quick Office Furniture
Office Supply Stores
Major chains like Staples or Office Depot may have a small selection of quality used filing cabinets. Inventory comes from businesses trading up old furniture.
Prices are usually higher than other options but the cabinets have been thoroughly inspected and repaired by the retailer. You can also ask about any delivery or assembly fees.
Auctions
Government, business, and estate auctions regularly feature old metal file cabinets. Search for upcoming auctions in your area or browse classified listings like Craigslist for auction announcements.
Inspect each cabinet before bidding as cosmetic damage may lower resale value. Auctions don’t allow returns so examine them closely.
Classified Listings
Scour local classified ads for individuals or businesses selling used file cabinets. Sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, NextDoor, and OfferUp all have listings.
Contact the seller for details on brand, age, condition, and pricing. Try negotiating a lower price for any cabinets with flaws like scratches or missing keys.
Office Relocations
When companies move offices, excess furniture is often sold off cheaply. Drive past business complexes to spot any relocation sales. The cabinets may have some scuffs or wear from use but can be a steal.
Ask if delivery is available since you’ll need to transport these heavy items. Make sure all drawers open properly and locks function before purchasing.
Buy Used File Cabinets Online
Searching online expands your options beyond just local sellers. Several websites specialize in used office furniture, making it easy to find quality pre-owned metal filing cabinets.
Used Office Furniture Retailers
Online retailers like ANew, OfficefurnitureCenter, and Refurnished comb through auctions, government surplus, and company inventories to find discounted used office furniture. Their websites make it easy to browse available used file cabinets.
- ANew – Selection of used lateral and vertical file cabinets starting around $200-$300. Free shipping.
- OfficefurnitureCenter – Hundreds of metal filing cabinets in 2, 3, 4, and 5 drawer models. Starting at $150.
- Refurnished – Carries major brands like Hon, Fireking, and HON file cabinets. All cabinets inspected and cleaned.
Government and Business Liquidators
The government and large corporations frequently auction off office furniture, with sites like GovDeals and Liquidation.com listing these assets. You can find major brands for a fraction of retail pricing.
Browse their auction listings for used file cabinets in your region. Make sure to factor in any taxes, buyer premiums, and delivery costs. Inspect closely upon arrival for any undisclosed flaws.
eBay
eBay has individual sellers cleaning out offices and listing used file cabinets. The selection is random but you can find gems if patient. Search under Office Furniture>Filing Cabinets & Frames and filter by Used condition, Metal material, drawer size, etc.
Vet each seller’s feedback score before purchasing. Inquire about any scratches, dents, or missing keys. Pay via credit card for added fraud protection.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace features used file cabinets from local individuals, businesses, and dealers. Search for exact cabinet features like “lateral file cabinet, 4-drawer, black”.
Inspect carefully before purchasing as quality varies widely. Transporting the heavy cabinets also falls on the buyer. But great deals can be found on this peer-to-peer platform.
What to Look for When Buying Used
Used metal file cabinets are only a good value if they are still in decent shape. Here are key things to inspect closely before purchasing a used cabinet:
Structural Condition
Carefully examine the overall cabinet structure:
- Welds – Check for cracked welds along the joints or frame. This weakens the integrity.
- Dents – Minor dents are ok but major ones can make drawers harder to open.
- Paint wear – Noticeable paint wear reduces aesthetic appeal and durability.
- Drawer alignment – Misaligned drawers are a sign of structural damage. Open all fully to check alignment.
Drawer Functionality
Operate all the drawers to verify smooth operation:
- Slides – Drawers should open and close smoothly without catching or sticking.
- Locks – Any built-in locks should latch and release easily. Get keys tested.
- Casters – If on casters, roll cabinet around to test maneuverability.
- Labels – Sliding label holders should move easily. Grimy labels can be cleaned.
Cabinet Interior
Inside the drawers and cabinet should be clean and undamaged:
- Scratches – Surface scratches are ok but deep gouges weaken structural integrity.
- Odor – An odor indicates mold or mildew. Cleaning doesn’t always remove scent.
- Rust – Check under drawers and along seams for any developing rust.
- Holes – Holes drilled into the cabinet compromise its strength and value.
Tip: Take photos of any substantial wear, dents, stains etc. so you can negotiate the price lower to account for the flaws.
How Much Should You Pay?
Pricing on used metal file cabinets varies greatly depending on:
- Brand – Premium brands like Hon, FireKing, and HON come at a higher price.
- Size – More and larger drawers mean a higher price.
- Features – Options like locks, casters, or fireproofing increase cost.
- Condition – Scratches, stains, or wear lower the price significantly.
- Location – Sellers in major metros can command higher prices for used items.
On average, expect to pay:
- 2-drawer cabinet – $50 – $200
- 3-drawer cabinet – $100 – $250
- 4 or 5-drawer cabinet – $150 – $300+
Great condition HON/FireKing cabinets with features can run $500+. Vintage all-steel cabinets are also collectible.
Aim to pay no more than 50-75% of the original retail price for a quality used cabinet in good shape. Consider condition, brand, and features when negotiating price.
How to Transport Used File Cabinets
Don’t underestimate the challenge of transporting a used metal filing cabinet! These sturdy cabinets weigh 200-500 lbs. Proper planning prevents injury or damage:
Measure Dimensions
Use a tape measure to check the cabinet’s height, width, and depth before purchasing. This ensures it will fit in your vehicle or office. Even minor size differences can prevent transport.
Rent a Truck/Van
The best method is to rent a truck, van, or trailer if picking up locally. The investment is well worth it for the larger space and ramp/lift gate access. Protect the interior with blankets and ratchet strap it tightly.
Remove Drawers
Lighten the load by removing heavier drawers. This also reduces stress on the cabinet frame during transport. Label drawers to keep contents organized.
Use a Dolly
A heavy duty dolly makes sliding the cabinet into a vehicle much easier. Flip the cabinet onto the dolly to wheel it up ramps into a truck.
Get Help!
At least two strong helpers are ideal when moving any filing cabinet. The heavy awkward shape is too challenging for one person. Make sure helpers lift properly.
With some muscle and these tips, you can transport a used metal file cabinet successfully. Take it slow and reassemble drawers gently upon arrival.
Refurbishing Used File Cabinets
Some minor refurbishing can help older used file cabinets look much more modern. Here are DIY tips for upgrading a previously owned cabinet:
Clean Inside and Out
Use a multi-surface cleaner to wipe down the entire cabinet. Remove grime, old tape residue, and any sticky spots. Pay special attention to interiors and drawer edges.
Sand Down Scratches
Lightly sand any scratches on the cabinet to smooth them down. Try 120 grit sandpaper and go in direction of the grain.
Fill Dents and Gouges
Use wood filler, plastic epoxy, or auto body putty to fill any major dents, holes, or gouges. Sand smooth once dry.
Paint Exterior
Apply 2-3 thin coats of spray paint in your color choice. Use a primer first for best adhesion. Lightly sand between coats for a smooth factory-like finish.
Upgrade Drawer Pulls
Replace older drawer pulls with updated brushed nickel bar pulls. This inexpensive upgrade modernizes the whole look.
Add Casters
Install heavy duty casters for easier mobility. Bolt through pre-drilled holes or use a reinforcement plate.
Take time to clean and make minor repairs or upgrades to extend the usable lifespan of a used metal file cabinet. The small effort pays off in upgraded aesthetics and performance.
Where to Buy Used Metal File Cabinets: Key Takeaways
- Inspect used cabinets closely for dents, rust, odor, and function before purchasing
- Haggle the price down for used cabinets with any substantial wear and tear
- Factor in size and weight when planning to transport used metal filing cabinets
- Refurbish with paint, new handles, and casters to modernize old used cabinets
- Buying used filing cabinets locally enables close inspection but has limited selection
- Shopping online provides more options but can’t be examined first – buy from reputable sellers
With some savvy shopping tactics, patience, and elbow grease you can save big on quality used metal filing cabinets for home or office. Follow these insider tips to track down the perfect discounted cabinet for your storage needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Used Metal File Cabinets
How much do used metal file cabinets cost?
Prices vary greatly but expect to pay $50-$200 for a 2-drawer, $100-$250 for a 3-drawer, and $150-$300+ for a 4-5 drawer used metal file cabinet in good shape. Vintage or all-steel cabinets can run higher.
Are old used file cabinets worth buying?
Older metal cabinets are usually higher quality but inspect closely for rust, odor, or substantial damage which lower value. Refurbishing the exterior restores the look. Prioritize function over minor cosmetic wear.
Where are the best places to find inexpensive used file cabinets?
Check office furniture liquidators, government/business auctions, secondhand stores, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, eBay, and used office furniture websites. Compare condition, pricing, and features when choosing.
What are signs a used file cabinet was well cared for?
Look for a fully intact structure free of dents, bowing, or rust, smoothly operating drawers, intact locks/labels, clean interior without gouges or odor, and minimal scratches. These signs indicate limited wear from careful previous use.
How do you move a heavy used file cabinet?
Rent a van/truck and use a heavy duty dolly for the easiest transport. Remove drawers to lighten weight. Get at least two strong helpers to lift the cabinet using proper form. Measure dimensions first to ensure it fits in your vehicle and office.
Can used file cabinets have a musty odor removed?
Not easily. Musty office smells often come from mold or mildew accumulated over years. This permeates the cabinet itself. While surface dirt can be cleaned, smells may linger even with thorough cleaning. Avoid cabinets with any off-putting scents.
Is it worth paying more for used Hon or FireKing file cabinets?
Yes, brands like Hon, FireKing, and HON are higher quality and command higher resale value. Weigh any price premium against the condition, size, and features. But built to last brands generally justify slightly higher prices for a used cabinet.
How do you make old used file cabinets look new again?
Gently sand scratches, fill dents/holes with filler, add a fresh coat of paint, replace worn drawer handles with new brushed nickel ones, attach casters for mobility, and thoroughly clean the interior and exterior. Refurbish to restore used cabinets.
Can you buy used lateral file cabinets as an alternative to vertical ones?
Absolutely. Lateral file cabinets offer side-to-side drawers great for letter or legal sized documents. High density 4-5 drawer models are common. Laterals take up more floorspace than vertical cabinets for the same storage capacity.
Conclusion
Used metal filing cabinets offer an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to pricey new models. With some careful inspection, expert negotiation tactics, and minor refurbishing, you can refresh used cabinets to feel like new.
Focus on structure, drawer function, and cleanliness when assessing condition. Be ready to transport the heavy cabinets properly. And take time to scrub, repair dents/scratches, and update the hardware to restore a quality used file cabinet.
Check auction listings, used office furniture dealers, classified ads, and other secondhand sources to browse availability. You’ll get the most value from used Hon, FireKing, or HON models in the best condition for 50-75% off retail pricing.
With this helpful guide, you can now confidently search out and refresh used metal file cabinets perfect for organizing your home or office.