Kraft File Folders

Kraft File Folders for Durable Top Tab Drawer Filing

Kraft file folders are durable top tab folders designed for active records, frequently accessed paperwork, and filing systems that need more strength than a lightweight standard folder. Made from sturdy Kraft stock, these folders help resist bending, tearing, and everyday wear while maintaining a clean, professional appearance.

The Kraft folders in this category are designed for top tab drawer filing in file cabinets, desk drawers, lateral file drawers, and compatible filing boxes. Available options may include 11-point and 17-point Kraft stock, letter-size and legal-size folders, different tab cuts, reinforced tabs, and models with or without document fasteners.

Kraft file folders are commonly used for legal records, medical administration, industrial paperwork, personnel files, financial documents, work orders, project records, contracts, and other files that are handled regularly or retained for an extended period.

What Is a Kraft File Folder?

A Kraft file folder is made from strong Kraft paper stock with a natural brown appearance. Kraft stock is valued for its durability and resistance to everyday handling, making it a practical choice for folders that are removed, reviewed, transported, and returned to storage frequently.

The darker natural finish can also make ordinary scuffs and handling marks less noticeable than they may be on lighter folder stock. The top tab provides space for handwritten titles, printed labels, account numbers, dates, barcodes, and color-coded filing labels.

• Durable Kraft construction: Provides dependable resistance to bending, tearing, and repeated handling.
• Top tab design: Keeps the file label visible in drawer-based filing systems.
• Natural professional appearance: Creates a consistent filing system with a sturdy, understated look.
• Multiple stock weights: Allows users to choose between routine durability and heavier-duty performance.
• Letter and legal sizes: Accommodates standard office documents and longer legal-size paperwork.

When Are Kraft File Folders the Right Choice?

Kraft folders are a strong choice when records receive more handling than a standard folder can comfortably support. They work especially well for active records that must remain easy to label, retrieve, review, and return to a drawer-based filing system.

• Choose Kraft file folders for active records that are removed and refiled frequently.
• Choose them for longer retention periods when folders must remain usable through repeated handling.
• Choose 11-point Kraft stock for routine filing that needs dependable everyday durability.
• Choose 17-point Kraft stock for heavier files, demanding use, or records handled by multiple employees.
• Choose folders with fasteners when punched documents must remain secured and arranged in order.
• Choose legal-size folders for contracts, court records, real estate documents, and other 8-1/2" x 14" paperwork.

How to Choose Kraft File Folders

11-Point vs. 17-Point Kraft File Folders

The point measurement describes the approximate thickness of the folder stock. A higher point value generally indicates a thicker and more rigid folder.

Choose the stock weight according to the expected document load and frequency of use. A heavier folder may be worthwhile for high-use records, while 11-point stock may be sufficient for routine filing.

Benefits of Kraft File Folders for Active Records

Kraft folders provide a useful balance of flexibility, durability, and professional appearance. Their sturdy construction can help folders remain functional and presentable through repeated filing activity.

• Resist everyday wear: Kraft stock helps reduce bending, creasing, and tearing from repeated handling.
• Support active files: Suitable for records that are pulled from storage and returned regularly.
• Maintain a professional appearance: Natural Kraft stock creates a clean and consistent filing system.
• Conceal handling marks: The darker material may make ordinary scuffs and minor marks less noticeable.
• Provide labeling flexibility: Use handwritten titles, printed labels, barcodes, dates, numbers, or color-coded labels.
• Support long-term use: Heavier Kraft stock can remain dependable through extended filing and retention periods.

Kraft File Folders with Fasteners

Kraft file folders with fasteners are useful when documents must remain attached and arranged in a consistent sequence. Fasteners help prevent paperwork from falling out, becoming mixed with another record, or losing its intended order.

• Preserve page order: Keep forms, reports, correspondence, and supporting documents arranged consistently.
• Reduce loose paperwork: Secure punched pages inside the folder during storage and handling.
• Support file updates: Add documents to an established sequence as the record develops.
• Simplify document review: Turn through attached paperwork without removing the complete document set.
• Improve portability: Keep papers secured when files move between offices, departments, work areas, or meetings.

Fastener quantity and position vary by product. Review the individual specifications to confirm whether fasteners are installed on one cover, both covers, or in another configuration.

Common Uses for Kraft File Folders

Kraft top tab folders work well in drawer-based filing systems where records are accessed frequently or need more support than lightweight standard folders provide.

Kraft File Folders vs. Standard Manila Folders

Kraft and manila folders are both commonly used for top tab drawer filing, but they differ in appearance, material strength, and intended use.

Choose a standard manila folder for lighter daily filing. Choose a Kraft folder when the record will be accessed frequently, retained longer, or used in a more demanding environment.