Suspension Files

Organise paperwork and make it quick and easy to find with suspension files from Cromwell. Choose from a wide range of sizes and designs from classic economy types to premium suspension files to keep your documents tidy and in good order. We stock quality storage and stationery products at great prices from leading brands, like Offis®, Q-Connect®, Esselte® and Rexel®.

What are suspension files?

Suspension files work in conjunction with a filing cabinet or a suspension drawer in a larger storage unit. They feature two metal or strong plastic strips with hooks at either end to hang over the filing runners on a drawer. A folded piece of card is securely attached to these strips, and allows for easy opening and storage of documents, like invoices, staff details and certificates.

Why buy suspension files?

Suspension files are quick and easy to access. They don't require any hole-punching like a folder does, and, with suspension file tabs, files can be ordered in any way that you like, such as alphabetical order by surname for personal files.

When are suspension files used?

Administrators, Goods in, and Human Resources all use suspension files to store important documents. However, they're also widely used domestically or for small businesses to store bills and other frequently accessed information.

Suspension file types

Suspension files are mainly supplied in the classic v-shaped style and in A4 size. However, there are lots of designs that cater to other requirements in size and shape...

A4 suspension files   -   Typically these files are used in suspension file desk drawers or filing cabinets. They're mainly available as a v-bottom type, but square-bottom types are also available.

Lateral suspension files   -   This type is available in widths of 275mm and 330mm and features a magnet or clip to connect the files together. This is ideal when handling larger groups of files and helps to prevent paperwork falling between each file by accident.

Foolscap suspension files   -   The foolscap size is often required for larger suspension drawers and provides a bit more room for document storage. Much like A4 suspension files, they're available in v-bottom and square-bottom types.

Considerations when choosing suspension files

Size - always check the sizing of your drawers or filing cabinet against the technical information before purchase.

Accessories - suspension files can't be organised unless they're labelled, and while some come with tabs and a limited number of inserts, reuse of a file often requires additional inserts or dry wipe tabs. Furthermore, if your filing system needs to be top notch, try some filing cabinet dividers to section off different files and keep everything in great order.

Reinforcements - for storing heavier documents or catalogue in suspension files, choose a reinforced type that has additional material on the bottom and reinforced attachments to the suspension strips.

Bottom - v-bottom types of files can handle up to a certain number of documents, but if you want to store a fair amount in your file then a square-bottom type gives a couple of sizing options and allows for larger amounts of storage.

Suspension files jargon buster

We want to make it as easy for you as possible to shop our range of suspension files, so we've outlined some key terms to help you find the right product.

What size is foolscap paper?

Foolscap was traditionally the standard size paper before A4 was popularised. Foolscap paper size is 203 x 330mm, making it slightly longer than A4, which is 210 x 297mm.

FAQs

How much weight can a suspension file hold?

It's tough to give a weight in this instance as suspension file suppliers define their product capacity in sheets of paper. So, we've put together this handy chart to help you decide which size and bottom shape suspension file you'll need:

• V-shaped bottom - Up to 150 sheets of paper
• 30mm (reinforced) square-bottom - Up to 300 sheets of paper
• 50mm (reinforced) square-bottom - up to 500 sheets of paper

Which are the strongest suspension files?

There are plenty of reinforced suspension files where both the base and the connection to the strips have additional material for strength. However, for strength on a budget, choose manilla suspension files. Manilla is premium quality paper and will give a good length of service. For super strong suspension files where cost isn't an issue, polypropylene files will consistently hold heavy documents and are second to none when it comes to reliable strength in use.