How to Choose a Blueprint Storage File: A Blueprint Filing Guide

There are some things you have to consider before choosing a blueprint holder. Some of them include but may not be limited to:

• The number of documents you need to store.
• How many documents you expect to file in the future.
• How often you need to access these documents.
• How permanent the storage needs to be.
• The importance of the documents being stored.
• The cost to reproduce the documents being stored.
• Whether the documents need to be stored flat or rolled.

Any documents printed on blueprint paper needs to be accessed easily. Without this important factor, a blueprint storage system won’t be that effective. But finding the right storage can be a daunting task. It can also be difficult to determine what you need without taking a careful look at how your office is set up.

Here are the three main ways you can store documents done on blueprint paper:

• Rolled Storage– This is the least expensive type of blueprint storage. It’s also convenient, because you can store blueprints rolled in a box file at a job site. It does, however, have a disadvantage with regard to access speed and space. It takes time to roll and unroll plans. And because they’re stored rolled instead of flat, you won’t be able to store as many plans in the same space.



• Plan Racks and Hanging Clamps– This is the quickest and most convenient blueprint storage Not only can you access up to 1,200 blueprints in a limited amount of space without having to unroll them, but you can also move them easily from one place to another. However, they are more expensive than rolled storage systems.



• Flat File Cabinets– While they’re expensive and are hard to move, flat file cabinets will hold and protect the most blueprints. Some cabinets are archival, which means that they don’t give emit any damaging vapors. Their biggest advantage is that you can maximize both protection and storage. So if you need a blueprint holder that will allow you to store the most documents in a single space, a flat file cabinet may be a good choice.

If you’re looking for the best blueprint storage for your specific needs, be sure to look at what we have at Engineer Supply.

There are several ways you can store documents printed on blueprint paper, with each one having its own advantages and disadvantages. Flat filing systems have several benefits, which can include but may not be limited to:

• Sturdy storage.
• Durability
• Archival storage options.
• Keeps blueprints safe and secure.
• Space for a large number of drawings.
• Can be used for permanent storage.
• Locking mechanisms available.
• Available in a variety of colors and styles.

However, they do have some drawbacks. Not only are they large and bulky (which will make a more permanent fixture in your office), but they’re also expensive. If you’re looking for something less permanent and more mobile, a blueprint stand will give you that option. It’s cheaper than a flat file system. But because it’s not meant to be permanent, it doesn’t have an archival storage option.

A rolled storage option will allow you to access your drawings in the most economical fashion, but it does have the following disadvantages:

• Drawings are exposed and not protected.
• It's not a good choice for archival storage.
• Rolled drawings are harder to flatten out for viewing.

You can also choose a high-density storage option, which can have the following advantages:

• Offers a quick and easy way to retrieve documents.
• Offers excellent document protection.
• Built for crafters.
• Can store more documents in less space.
• Some systems can offer fire and water protection.
• Can store a variety of paper sizes.

It does, however, have the following drawbacks:

• It’s the most expensive blueprint holder.
• It’s large and bulky.
• The “pin and post” system requires a carrier strip on each drawing.

If you’re looking for one of the best places to purchase blueprint paper or any storage solution for large documents and plans, be sure to look at what we have at Engineer Supply. We have a broad selection from some of the best manufacturers in the industry, so you can be sure to find a blueprint holder that will meet your specific needs.