What Size Is A Lever Arch File?
A Lever Arch File is a popular filing solution used in offices, schools, and homes for organizing A4 (or similar) paper documents. Knowing the typical size helps you choose one that fits your storage spaces and meets your document capacity needs.
Standard Size for A4 lever arch files
When we refer to an A4 lever arch file, this means a file designed to hold A4 paper (210 mm × 297 mm or about 8.27″ × 11.7″). But the external dimensions of the file will be larger, because of the spine (mechanism), cover, and some margin room for easy insertion/removal.
Typical external dimensions are:
| Dimension | Approximate Size |
|---|---|
| Height (front cover) | ~ 320 mm |
| Width (side to side) | ~ 285 mm |
| Spine / Depth (thickness when empty or low-fill) | between 50 mm and 80 mm is common; can go to 100 mm or more for higher capacity files |
These dimensions vary depending on:
The capacity (how many sheets the file will hold)
The material and thickness of the cover
Any extra features (e.g. pockets, thumb holes, reinforced edges)
For example, the “Esselte No.1 PP FSC A4/50 mm” lever arch file has external dimensions 52 × 318 × 290 mm (width × height × depth).
Another typical file with an 80 mm spine might measure about H 320 mm × W 285 mm × D 80 mm.
Other Sizes
Besides A4, lever arch files may also be made in:
A3 or A5 formats
Foolscap (for regions or industries using that standard)
Custom sizes beyond standard heights or widths to accommodate larger or unusual documents
JINRI’s Custom Size Service
At JINRI Stationery, we understand that one size does not always fit all. On our Lever Arch File product page, we offer custom sizing service so you can get lever arch files made to the dimensions you need.
What This Means for You
If your storage shelves have limited depth, you can request a smaller spine thickness.
If you need to accommodate paper that’s slightly taller or wider than standard A4, you can order covers with adjusted height or width.
Custom sizing can include modifications such as extra pockets, reinforced edges, or different cover materials.
When placing a custom size order, it helps to provide:
The paper format you intend to store (A4, A3, etc.)
The maximum external dimensions you can allow (height × width × spine depth)
The expected number of sheets or capacity requirement
How to Choose the Right Size Lever Arch File
Here are some tips:
Measure the largest document you need to store (length, width) and add a margin.
Pick spine width based on document count. If you expect many documents, go for deeper spine (80-100 mm).
Check shelf or cabinet dimensions so the file fits; height and width matter when shelved upright.
Consider ease of use: thumb holes, filing mechanisms, cover stiffness all affect usability when the file is large.
Conclusion
A standard A4 lever arch file is typically around 320 × 285 mm with a spine between 50-80 mm, but dimensions can vary. If your needs are non-standard, JINRI offers custom sizing so you can get a lever arch file tailored to your documents and space.