How to choose the right kind of file folder

Knowing and understanding some filing terms can help you choose what filing product will fit your exact needs.  Below is a list of general filing terms and they are linked to products that we offer.  If you are not sure of what filing product your office needs, please call us and we can help!

Hanging File Folders

• Most convenient way to hold information in a file drawer
• Best to leave in the file drawer
• Use removable interior file folders inside hanging file folders

• Expand at fold for storage of bulky records such as catalogs, large reports and printouts

Interior File Folders

• Ideal for keeping groups of papers separated within hanging file folders

Fastener Folders

• Perfect for keeping paperwork secure and in sequential order

Pressboard/Classification Folders

• Dividers inside folders allow separation of information into different sub categories
• Fasteners keep papers secure and in sequential order

Expanding Pocket and Wallet Folders

• Provide ample space for larger amounts of material

Top-Tab File Folders

• Good for keeping titles visible for quick and simple reference
• Also ideal for desktop organizers and for storing “low active” archived files in storage boxes

End-Tab File Folders

• Let you store files on shelves with all indexing visible, for quick filing and retrieval

Color Coding

• Use different color folders or tabs for each section of files
• Makes it easier to quickly find folders and put them back in the right place
• Try using colors to show importance; red for immediate attention, yellow for current files, green for background material

Straight Cut Filing Tabs

• Run full width of file folder
• Often used for multiple labels or extra-long headings

• Run half the width of the file folder
• Staggered in sets of two for visibility
• Good for long leadings

Third Cut Filing Tabs

• Run a third the width of the file folder
• Staggered in sets of three for visibility
• The most commonly used interior file folder variation

Fifth Cut Filing Tabs

• Run a fifth the width of the file folder
• Staggered in sets of five for visibility
• Ideal for numerical or alphabetical indexing

Materials

• Manila: Thick, durable buff-colored paper originally made from Manila hemp fiber.  Provides tearing, folding and bursting strength at a popular price
• Pressboard: Stiff, durable, highly glazed paperboard stock of superior rigidity and strength.  Made from rag or chemical wood pulp
• Polypropylene: Durable and flexible.  Tear-resistant, static-free, acid-free, archival quality protects against copy transfer

Archival Safe Folders

• Made of lignite and acid free stock to provide superior protection for archival storage of documents and photographs

Antimicrobial Folders

• Specially treated with antimicrobial agent to guard against growth of bacteria, odors, algae, mold, fungus and mildew.  Ideal for medical environments or anywhere bacteria and mold control is critical

• 11 pt.: Heavyweight stock is the economical choice for general filing
• 14 pt.: Extra heavyweight durable folder stock for files that get frequent use.  This is the most commonly used file folder
• 17-18 pt.: Super heavyweight.  A common weight for guides
• 20-25pt.: Superior weight and rigidity available in pressboard folders