Choosing a Lockable Filing Cabinet: What to Check Before You Buy

Choosing a lockable filing cabinet starts with matching the lock, file format, capacity and cabinet dimensions to your workplace. Check these details before you order, then compare models for secure, practical document storage. Loxmet’s published filing cabinet range includes vertical metal models with key locks and two to five drawers.

Loxmet product dimensions are external. Confirm your file format and available room before requesting a quote.

Lockable filing cabinet: Match Security to the Records

Start with the records you need to protect. Personnel documents, contracts, financial files and customer information need controlled access. A key-lock cabinet helps restrict casual access in a shared office, but it is not the same as a certified high-security container.

Decide who will hold the keys, how access will be managed and where the cabinet will be placed. The UK Information Commissioner’s Office recommends storing physical records in lockable filing cabinets or rooms and controlling access to keys and codes. Make key responsibility part of your workplace procedure.

Loxmet’s published filing cabinets come with key locks and a central locking system. They are built for secure, organized everyday document storage. If your records require a specific security rating or certified protection, confirm that requirement before choosing a standard office cabinet.

File Format and Capacity

Check the files you actually use

A drawer count alone does not tell you how many folders will fit. Check whether you use letter-size, legal-size, A4 or another file format, then confirm compatibility with the product before ordering. Loxmet’s filing cabinet product descriptions state that drawers can accommodate letter- and legal-size files, with adjustable rods for suspension files.

Estimate the volume of active and archived records. Allow room for file dividers, labels and future growth. A cabinet that is too small creates extra handling and clutter; an oversized cabinet can take up valuable floor space.

Choose the drawer count

Select a two- or three-drawer cabinet for compact work areas or a smaller volume of files. Four- and five-drawer models provide more vertical filing capacity within the same external width and depth. Before choosing a taller cabinet, check ceiling height, access routes and the room layout.

Loxmet’s vertical models share a consistent width and depth, while height changes with drawer count. For a comparison of filing orientations and workspace considerations, see lateral vs. vertical filing cabinets.

Measure the Space and Check Daily Use

Measure the planned location, doorway and delivery route before placing an order. Allow room to open drawers fully and reach files without blocking desks or walkways. Check for nearby doors, exits and equipment that must remain accessible.

Use the external dimensions in the comparison table as a starting point. The two-drawer model is 685 mm high; other models are taller. If you need a different width, depth, height, color or lock type, ask about made-to-order options before finalizing your specification.

A well-planned layout supports safe access. Keep aisles clear and close drawers after use. OSHA workplace guidance includes practical housekeeping and safety considerations for work areas. For fire planning, consult the UK government’s office and shop fire safety guidance. A standard lockable metal filing cabinet should not be assumed to provide certified fire protection.

Compare Materials, Features and Service

A metal filing cabinet is built for repeated workplace use. When comparing office filing cabinets, review the body construction, drawer extension, file supports and finish, not only the number of drawers. Loxmet’s published vertical models feature a metal monoblock body, full-extension drawers, label holders and adjustable suspension-file rods.

Check the product page for the exact specifications and request confirmation if your file format or use case has special requirements. Browse the Loxmet office cabinets category to compare filing cabinets with other office storage options.

Loxmet manufactures in Istanbul, Turkey. The company’s manufacturing operation is CE and ISO 9001:2015 certified. Standard catalogue products in catalogue colors generally have a 10-working-day lead time. Custom colors and made-to-order products typically require approximately 10 additional working days. A 10-year warranty covers production faults. Pricing is provided by quote; ask the sales team to confirm the specification, price and delivery details for your order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all Loxmet filing cabinets have locks?

Yes. The published two-, three-, four- and five-drawer vertical filing cabinet models come with key locks and central locking.

Which drawer count should I choose?

Choose based on the volume of files, available floor space and required cabinet height. The two-drawer model is the shortest published option. The five-drawer model offers more vertical storage. Measure the room and delivery route before selecting.

Do the cabinets support letter- and legal-size files?

Loxmet’s product descriptions state that the drawers adapt to letter- and legal-size files. Adjustable suspension-file rods support file arrangement. Confirm that your specific folder format will fit before ordering.

Are the cabinets fireproof?

The published product information does not specify a fire-resistance rating. Do not treat a standard lockable metal cabinet as fire-rated. If you need certified fire protection, request documented test information for the exact product.

Can I request a custom size or color?

Yes. Loxmet can discuss custom dimensions, color and lock type. Made-to-order products and custom colors typically require approximately 10 additional working days beyond the standard catalogue lead time.

How soon can a standard cabinet be delivered?

Standard catalogue products in catalogue colors generally have a 10-working-day lead time. Confirm availability and delivery details with the sales team when requesting a quote.

What warranty is included?

Loxmet provides a 10-year warranty for production faults. Ask the sales team for the warranty terms applicable to your order.

Request a Filing Cabinet Quote

Before you contact a supplier, note your file format, estimated capacity, preferred drawer count, cabinet dimensions and lock requirements. Then compare the 2-drawer, 3-drawer, 4-drawer and 5-drawer options.

For a secure, durable metal filing cabinet matched to your workplace, contact the Loxmet team with your requirements. We will help you check the right model and prepare a quote.