Pedestals are the quiet workhorse of an office. Nobody talks about them, but every employee notices when there is nowhere to put a bag, a notebook or a stack of files. Because steel pedestals are simple and durable, they are one of the best-value items to buy pre-owned. A solid used unit often works just like a new one.
This page covers the main pedestal types, how to check a used unit, and how to use pedestals to complete workstations without inflating your budget.
Mobile vs. fixed pedestals
The biggest decision is whether the pedestal moves. Each style solves a different problem.
| Type | How it works | Strengths | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile | Rolls on casters, tucks under the work surface | Easy to reposition, works with many desk types, good for shared or reconfigured spaces | Caster condition, clearance under the surface, tipping with drawers open |
| Fixed, suspended | Hangs from the underside of the work surface | Keeps the floor clear for cleaning and chair movement | Must match the mounting pattern of your surface |
| Fixed, support | Stands on the floor and helps hold up the work surface | Very stable, can replace a panel or leg as support | Height must match surface height exactly |
| Lateral or tall | Wider or taller storage beside the workstation | More filing capacity, can double as a bench or divider | Takes floor space, heavier to move |
Mobile pedestals are the most forgiving choice when you are mixing furniture from different sources, because they do not depend on matching a mounting system.
Drawer configurations
Pedestals are usually described by their drawer layout. Pick based on what people actually store.
- Box, box, file: two shallow drawers and one file drawer. The most common all-purpose layout.
- File, file: two file drawers for roles that still handle a lot of paper.
- Pencil drawer plus box and file: a thin top tray for small items, useful when there is no other drawer at the desk.
- Cushion-top: a padded lid that doubles as a guest seat in collaborative areas.
In offices that have moved most records to digital storage, a box-box-file unit is usually enough. Heavy paper users may need a lateral file instead.
How to check a used pedestal
Pedestals are built to take abuse, but a few problems are worth catching before purchase.
- Open every drawer fully. Slides should run smoothly and close without catching. Grinding or sagging suggests worn or bent slides.
- Test the lock. Turn the key and confirm all drawers lock together. Ask whether keys are included.
- Check the anti-tip feature. Many units only allow one drawer open at a time. Make sure that still works, because it prevents tipping.
- Roll it. On mobile units, every caster should turn freely and none should be missing.
- Look at the file rails. Hanging folder rails should be present and straight.
- Inspect the finish. Scratches on the sides rarely matter under a desk, but dents on the drawer fronts show.
Condition grades
Every pre-owned item we sell is graded. Grade A is like new, Grade B is very good and Grade C is good. Because pedestals live mostly out of sight under a work surface, Grade B and C units are often a smart way to save, as long as the drawers, slides and locks work properly. Choose Grade A where storage is visible, such as open benching or a front-of-house desk.
Completing workstations for less
Pedestals are one of the simplest ways to make a workstation feel finished. For context, a 6'x6' workstation, furniture only, runs about $615 liquidation-grade, $1,245 remanufactured and $1,920 new. Those prices exclude electrical, delivery and professional installation. Adding pre-owned pedestals on top of a liquidation-grade or remanufactured station keeps the full setup well below the cost of new.
A few practical tips:
- Match finishes within each row or pod. Mixed colors are more noticeable side by side than across a room.
- Choose mobile units if you expect to reconfigure the floor plan or move to hoteling.
- Count pedestals against actual people, not seats. Shared desks may need lockers instead.
Volume pricing applies to workstation orders: 5% at 20 or more stations, 8% at 50 or more and 12% at 100 or more. Building a bigger order? Start with the cubicle quote builder and note the storage you want per station.
Lead times and delivery
Liquidation-grade furniture can be available in as little as 72 hours when it is in stock. Remanufactured items usually take 7 to 14 days, and new furniture typically takes 4 to 6 weeks. Pedestals are rarely the item that holds up a project, so they are easy to add late.
In Greater Phoenix, delivery is $195 central and $295 across the metro. Elsewhere, freight is quoted per project. Installation is $95 per workstation with a $495 minimum, if you want the pedestals mounted and the stations assembled for you.
If you are replacing storage in a dense Phoenix-area office, see our local pages for used cubicles in Phoenix. Need shared storage for employees without assigned desks? Read about personal storage lockers. You can also browse all pre-owned office furniture.
Average market rate Prices subject to availability and project pricing.
Frequently asked questions
What is an office pedestal?
A pedestal is a small drawer cabinet that sits under or beside a desk or workstation surface. It usually holds a combination of a pencil drawer, box drawers and a file drawer. Some roll on casters, while others attach to the work surface or stand on the floor.
Do used pedestals come with keys?
Not always. Keys often get lost during office moves. Ask before you buy, and plan for rekeying or replacement lock cores if keys are missing, especially if employees will store personal or sensitive items.
Will a used pedestal fit my workstation?
Measure the clear height under the work surface, the depth of the surface and any support panels or legs in the way. Mobile pedestals need clearance for their full height plus casters. Fixed pedestals must match the mounting method of your system.
Can I add pedestals to a cubicle order?
Yes. Pedestals are a common add-on when furnishing workstations, and our cubicle quote builder is the easiest place to start. Share the storage you need per person and we can include it in the quote.
Do manufacturer warranties apply to used pedestals?
Generally no. Office Station is an independent reseller, not an authorized dealer, and manufacturer warranties usually do not transfer to pre-owned furniture. Condition grades and inspection are your best protection.
