End-tab vs. top-tab — what’s the difference?

End-tab folders show the tab on the long side and are used on open-shelf systems; top-tab folders show the tab along the top edge and are designed for drawer filing.

When should I choose classification folders?

Choose classification folders when you need built-in dividers and 2-prong fasteners to separate sections within one file—ideal for medical charts, legal matters, and case files.

Letter or legal size — how do I pick?

Letter (8.5\" × 11\") fits standard documents; legal (8.5\" × 14\") fits longer forms. Match the folder to both your documents and storage equipment.

What tab and material options are available?

Tabs include full-cut, 1/2-cut, or 1/3-cut (assorted positions). Materials range from 11-pt to 18-pt manila, with optional reinforced (2-ply) tabs for added durability.

Can I add fasteners, pockets, or expansion?

Yes—add 2\" bonded fasteners (various positions), pockets/jackets, and expansion gussets (e.g., 3/4\" to 2\"+). Check each product’s options for capacity and placement.

Do you offer volume pricing or custom printing?

We offer bulk price breaks and custom printing (logos, lines, colors). Call (800) 810-3453 for a quote.

Which materials last the longest in busy classrooms?

Poly folders and dividers resist tears and spills; paper stock with reinforced tabs is a cost-effective choice for light to moderate use.

How should I color-code a classroom or department?

Use a consistent scheme (e.g., grade = folder color; subject = tab or label color). Keep a simple legend on the binder spine or inside cover so students and staff can follow it at a glance.

What sizes fit standard school binders and files?

Letter (8.5\" × 11\") is most common; legal (8.5\" × 14\") fits longer forms. Choose 3-hole-punched dividers/sheet protectors for binders and end-tab folders for open-shelf records rooms.

Can you print our school name, mascot, or subject titles?

Yes—custom printing is available for folders, tabs, and labels. Call (800) 810-3453 for a quote.

How many sets should I order for a term?

A practical rule of thumb is one set per student plus 10–20% extras for mid-year adds and replacements.

Do you offer volume pricing?

Yes—bulk price breaks and custom printing are available. Call (800) 810-3453.

Sheet vs. roll labels — what’s the difference?

Sheet labels (letter-size) run through laser/inkjet printers; roll labels feed through thermal or dedicated label printers.

Permanent or removable adhesive?

Permanent adhesives are best for long-term filing; removable adhesives peel away cleanly from most surfaces for temporary notes or re-use.

Will these labels work in my printer?

Check each item’s spec for “laser,” “inkjet,” or “thermal.” Avoid running inkjet-only sheets through a laser printer.

How do I match the label size to folder tabs or binder spines?

Measure the printable area of your tab or spine and match to the label’s width/height. If unsure, choose a slightly smaller label for clean alignment.

Can I get preprinted sequences or color bars?

Yes—choose preprinted sets (A-Z, 0-9, months) or request custom colors/text to match your filing system.

Do you have templates?

We provide size specifications and many customers use common label templates. If you need help aligning, call (800) 810-3453.

What do 5-, 8-, 10-, or 12-tab sets mean?

That’s the number of tabs per set. More tabs provide finer organization; fewer tabs give larger, easier-to-read tabs.

Paper vs. poly — which should I choose?

Paper (often with Mylar-reinforced tabs) is economical and easy to write on; poly resists tears and moisture for heavy use and frequent handling.

Are the tabs printable?

Some tabs are hand-write only; others are laser/inkjet printable. Check each product for “printable” support and printer compatibility.

Will they fit my binder?

Choose letter (8.5\" × 11\") for most 3-ring binders or legal (8.5\" × 14\") for longer documents. Many options are pre-punched for standard rings.

Can I mix preprinted and blank tabs?

Yes—use a preprinted core set and add blank or custom tabs for sections unique to your workflow.

Do you make custom tab sets?

Yes—tab titles, colors, and sheet stock can be customized. Call (800) 810-3453.

How do I choose a binder capacity?

Match ring capacity to page count and pick a ring style that suits your use—D-rings turn pages smoothly for frequently accessed files.

When should I pick heavy-duty options?

Choose heavy-duty binders, poly folders, and reinforced tabs for high-traffic files or check-out materials that travel between departments.

Letter or legal size — what’s right?

Letter (8.5\" × 11\") fits most documents; legal (8.5\" × 14\") handles longer forms. Make sure accessories (dividers, sheet protectors) match the same size.

Which fasteners work with my folders?

2-prong fasteners and 2\" capacity options are common—check each folder’s product details for fastener compatibility and positioning.

Do you offer eco-conscious options?

Look for recycled content indicators and similar sustainability notes within each product’s specifications.

Can I get bulk pricing or custom printing?

Yes—volume price breaks and custom imprinting are available. Call (800) 810-3453.

What materials hold up outdoors or on the go?

Choose poly folders/dividers and water-resistant labels for field use; paper stock works well for office storage and archives.

How do I color-code teams or seasons?

Assign colors by team or season across folders, tabs, and labels so gear and paperwork are simple to sort and return.

Can you print our team name or logo?

Yes—custom printing is available for folders, tabs, and labels. Call (800) 810-3453.

What binder size works for playbooks or rosters?

Letter (8.5\" × 11\") is standard; D-ring binders help pages turn smoothly. Add sheet protectors for rain-safe inserts.

How do I tag equipment and uniforms?

Use preprinted or custom number labels and durable tags; removable options are useful for temporary assignments and tryouts.

Do you support bulk orders for leagues?

Yes—ask about volume price breaks and consolidated shipments for multi-team programs.

Top Tab File Folders

SMEAD TOP TAB FILE FOLDERS

Smead top tab file folders are a popular choice for organizing and storing documents in both professional and personal settings. These folders are designed with a reinforced tab on the top edge, allowing for easy labeling and quick identification of contents. The top tab design also makes it convenient to retrieve and insert documents, as the tabs remain visible even when the folders are stored in a filing cabinet or drawer.