Storage & Filing — Lateral File Cabinets — Expert Answer
How should I handle a lateral file cabinet that has drawers that stick or are hard to open?
Drawer issues in lateral file cabinets are almost always attributable to one of three causes: overloading beyond the rated capacity (75 lbs per drawer is typical for commercial-grade units), misalignment from uneven flooring that binds the slide mechanism, or worn slides in older units past their service life. At OfficeFurniture2go.com, we source cabinets with heavy-duty full-suspension ball-bearing slides precisely because they maintain smooth operation under load over years of use. If you're experiencing sticking in a commercial-grade cabinet, first verify the cabinet is level (adjust leveling glides), then check drawer weight. If slides are damaged, most manufacturers offer replacement parts. Our team can help source parts for brands we carry — call 1-800-460-0858.