How do I calculate the linear filing inches of a lateral file cabinet?

Linear filing inch calculation is the technical foundation of any filing room specification — and it's a calculation our team at OfficeFurniture2go.com performs routinely for clients. The formula: usable interior drawer width × number of file drawers = total LFI. For a commercial 36" lateral cabinet, expect approximately 33"–34" usable per drawer. A 4-drawer unit provides roughly 132"–136" LFI. Average active file folders run 1/4"–1/2" thick, so one 4-drawer, 36" lateral holds approximately 264–528 folders — a wide range depending on file density. We recommend measuring a sample drawer of your current files to calibrate the calculation for your specific documents. Call 1-800-460-0858 and we'll work through the LFI math with you to size your order correctly.