Introduction
In the office and study, folders are an important tool for us to organize files. Choosing the right file folder sizes can not only improve the efficiency of file management but also make our working environment more tidy and orderly. This article will provide you with a practical folder organization guide from two aspects: 6 different file folder sizes and the selection of file folder sizes.
file folder sizes
There are more than one size of folders. Choosing the right size can make organizing files more efficient! Different file folder dimensions are suitable for different needs. Some are suitable for daily files, some are suitable for special-sized materials, and some are specially designed for photos. Next, I will introduce you to six common file folder sizes and see their respective characteristics and applicable scenarios!
1. A4 file folder sizes
A4 file folder dimensions are simply the “magic storage tool” on your desk! It is specially designed for A4 paper and can be neatly stuffed into it for meeting minutes, study notes, and project materials. The hardcover can protect the files from being folded, and the internal interlayer can adjust the capacity at will, from 20 pages to 100 pages, so you can put as many as you want. The most thoughtful thing is that you can use labels or separators to classify files, which makes it particularly easy to find. With it, the desktop will no longer be a mess, and work and study will become well organized. It is simply a savior for lazy people to organize files!
Size: Approximately 21 cm × 29.7 cm (standard A4 paper size).
Features: The most commonly used folder size for storing standard A4 paper.
Applicable scenarios:
Office file filing.
School homework or exam material organization.
Home file storage (such as bills, contracts, etc.).
Standard A4 Folder Dimensions chart
| Closed Size | 160mm × 225mm (6.3″ × 8.86″) |
| Open Size | 320mm × 225mm (12.6″ × 8.86″) |
| Spine Width (if applicable) | 5mm – 10mm (0.2″ – 0.4″) |
| Pocket Height | 80mm – 100mm (3.15″ – 3.94″) |
| Business Card Slot (if included) | 90mm × 55mm (3.54″ × 2.17″) |
2. A5 file folder sizes
A5 file folder dimensions are a great tool for organizing small files! Although the size of folders is smaller than A4, it is very suitable for storing small things, such as notes, receipts, or handwritten notes. Its capacity is generally between 20 and 50 pages. It is not too thick and does not take up space in your bag. It is very convenient to carry with you. If you are a student, you can use it to store class notes; if you are an office worker, it is also very practical to store meeting summaries or to-do lists.
Size: about 14.8 cm × 21 cm (half of an A4 paper).
Features: compact and portable, small capacity.
Applicable scenarios:
Carry a small amount of documents with you.
Organize notebooks or small documents.
Temporary storage of documents during travel or meetings.
Standard A5 Folder Dimensions chart
| Closed Size | 220mm × 310mm (8.66″ × 12.2″) |
| Open Size | 440mm × 310mm (17.32″ × 12.2″) |
| Spine Width (if applicable) | 5mm – 10mm (0.2″ – 0.4″) |
| Pocket Height | 100mm – 120mm (3.94″ – 4.72″) |
3. Legal file folder sizes
Legal file folder dimensions are tailor-made for those “bulky” files! They are larger than ordinary A4 size of folders and are specially designed to hold legal file folder dimensions (such as 8.5 x 14-inch documents). They are especially suitable for people in the legal, financial, or construction industries. Their capacity usually ranges from 50 to 100 pages. They are strong and durable and can hold thick contracts, drawings, or reports without worrying about the files being folded or wrinkled. With them, no matter how many files you have, they can be neatly arranged and easy to find. It is simply a “file manager” for people in the workplace!
Size: Approximately 21.6 cm × 35.6 cm (longer than A4).
Features: Suitable for storing longer documents, such as legal contracts or drawings.
Applicable scenarios:
Legal document filing.
Storage of architectural drawings or design drafts.
Occasions where extra-long documents need to be stored.
Standard Legal File Folder Dimensions chart
| Closed Size | 240mm × 370mm (9.45″ × 14.57″) |
| Open Size | 480mm × 370mm (18.9″ × 14.57″) |
| Spine Width (if applicable) | 10mm – 50mm (0.4″ – 2″) |
| Pocket Height | 100mm – 120mm (3.94″ – 4.72″) |
| Business Card Slot (if included) | 90mm × 55mm (3.54″ × 2.17″) |
4. Pocket file folder sizes
The biggest feature of the Pocket folder is that it comes with pockets or inserts, which are especially suitable for storing small scattered items, such as receipts, business cards, bills, or temporary documents. The file folder sizes are generally similar to that of an A4 or A5 folder, but with these practical pockets, it instantly make organizing files easy and efficient. You can put important documents in the main compartment and small items in the pockets, so you can see them at a glance and never have to worry about things being thrown around.
Size: Usually small, the specific size varies by design.
Features: Lightweight, simple, usually without loops or clips.
Applicable scenarios:
Temporary storage of small amounts of documents.
Distributing materials during meetings or presentations.
Temporary organization of student assignments or notes.
Standard Pocket File Folder Dimensions chart
| Closed Width | 230mm – 250mm (9″ – 9.84″) |
| Closed Height | 310mm – 330mm (12.2″ – 13″) |
| Open Width | 460mm – 500mm (18.1″ – 19.7″) |
| Open Height | 310mm – 330mm (12.2″ – 13″) |
| Spine Width (if applicable) | 5mm – 50mm (0.2″ – 2″) |
| Pocket Height | 100mm – 120mm (3.94″ – 4.72″) |
5. Letter file folder sizes
The Letter folder size in inches is 8.5 x 11, slightly wider than A4. Although it looks about the same size as an A4 folder, it seems more advanced! The capacity ranges from 20 pages to 100 pages. It is strong, durable, and particularly suitable for contracts, reports, or study materials. If you often deal with international documents or just like this “American style,” then the Letter folder is your best choice!
Size: Usually A4 or A5 size.
Features: A sealing design is used to prevent documents from falling.
Applicable scenarios:
Occasions where documents need to be protected from damage.
Used when mailing or delivering documents.
Standard Letter file folder sizes chart
| Closed Width | 230mm – 250mm (9″ – 9.84″) |
| Closed Height | 310mm – 330mm (12.2″ – 13″) |
| Open Width | 460mm – 500mm (18.1″ – 19.7″) |
| Open Height | 310mm – 330mm (12.2″ – 13″) |
| Spine Width (if applicable) | 5mm – 50mm (0.2″ – 2″) |
| Pocket Height | 100mm – 120mm (3.94″ – 4.72″) |
6. Foolscap Folder Size
Foolscap folders are retro folders. The size of folders is slightly larger than A4 file folder sizes (8.5 x 13.5 inches) and is especially suitable for protecting documents and preventing paper from sticking out. Although not many people use them now, their classic design and large capacity are still popular. If you have some particularly long documents, Foolscap folders are definitely for you!
Size: Slightly larger than A4.
Features: Classic retro, Large capacity, High durability.
Applicable scenarios:
Suitable for important documents such as contracts and reports that need to be kept for a long time.
The size is large enough to easily accommodate A3 folded drawings or long forms.
Suitable for organizing old documents or historical materials, retro and practical.
Standard Foolscap Folder Size chart
| Closed Size | 240mm × 355mm (9.45″ × 14″) |
| Open Size | 480mm × 355mm (18.9″ × 14″) |
| Spine Width (if applicable) | 13 mm to 133 mm(0.5″ to 5.25″) |
| Pocket Height (for pocket folders) | 100mm – 120mm (3.94″ – 4.72″) |
| Business Card Slot (if included) | 90mm × 55mm (3.54″ × 2.17″) |
How to choose the right file folder sizes?
Choosing the right file folder sizes is the key to ensuring efficient file organization. Choosing the right file folder sizes according to actual needs can not only improve the efficiency of file organization but also ensure the durability of the folder. Here are some suggestions for choosing the file folder sizes:
1. Choose according to paper size
When choosing the right file folder sizes, first consider the paper size you usually use. Here are the common paper sizes and their suitable folder sizes:
A4 paper (210mm x 297mm)
Suitable folder size: A4 folder
A5 paper (148mm x 210mm)
Suitable folder size: A5 folder
Letter paper (215.9mm x 279.4mm)
Suitable folder size: Letter folder
If you want to know more about paper sizes, click Paper Sizes Explained: Differences Between ISO, US, And UK Standards.
2. Choose according to the purpose
Office use: A4 file folder sizes are the best choice and are suitable for storing a variety of office documents.
Portable use: A5 file folder sizes are light and easy to carry, suitable for situations where you need to carry documents with you.
Large format documents: Foolscap file folder sizes are suitable for storing large-format design drawings, posters, etc.
3. Choose according to the number of documents
For a small number of documents, Choose a thin folder (5-10mm), which is light and easy to manage.
Medium-sized files: Choose medium-sized folders (15-20mm), which can hold more files without being too bulky.
Large files: Choose thick folders (25-50mm), which are suitable for storing a large number of files, but pay attention to the durability of the folders.
4. Choose according to storage space
Desktop storage: Choose standard file folder sizes (such as A4) to facilitate neat placement on the desktop.
Filing cabinet storage: Make sure the folder size matches the size of the filing cabinet drawer to avoid wasting space or being unable to fit.
FAQ
What is the difference between A4 and letter size folders?
- A4 Size: 210mm × 297mm (8.27″ × 11.69″)
- Letter Size: 216mm × 279mm (8.5″ × 11″)
- The letter size is slightly wider and shorter than the A4 size.
What does an 'open view' mean in folder sizes?
The open view refers to the size of the folder when it is fully opened. It allows you to see how much space is available for storing multiple sheets of paper.
What is the purpose of the spine width in folders?
The spine width refers to the thickness of the folder. It helps determine how many documents or papers the folder can hold. The spine can range from 5mm to 50mm, depending on the folder’s capacity.
What is the best folder size for organizing documents?
It depends on the document size:
- A4 folders are ideal for international document sizes.
- Letter-size folders are commonly used in the United States.
- Legal-size folders are used for longer legal documents.
Can I use a larger folder for smaller documents?
You can use larger folders like A4 or letter size for smaller documents, but it might not be as space-efficient. It’s generally recommended to use folders that match the size of your documents for better organization.
What are the options for the thickness of the folder?
- Thin: about 5-10mm, suitable for a small amount of documents.
- Medium: about 15-20mm, suitable for a medium amount of documents.
- Thick: about 25-50mm, suitable for a large amount of documents.
Conclusion
Folders are important tools for organizing files. The size and organization of folders directly affect our work efficiency. By choosing the right folder capacity, scientifically classifying and organizing, and developing good usage habits, we can make file management easier and more efficient. I hope this guide can help you better manage your files and make your study and work more organized!
2 Responses
This article can be used as a reference when supplementing office supplies.
when introducing different folder sizes, different colors or icons can be used to distinguish them