GI Drop Over Panels: Solid Shelves for Pallet Racking
GI drop over panels are galvanised steel panels that drop between the beams of a pallet rack to create a solid, level shelf. They let you store cartons, sacks and loose stock on racking built for pallets, without fitting a separate shelving system.
What Are Drop Over Panels?
A drop over panel is a pressed steel panel with folded edges that sit over the front and back beams of the rack. Panels are placed side by side to cover each level. Because they are galvanised (GI), they resist rust in the UAE’s humid coastal climate, from Dubai to Umm Al Quwain.
Why Warehouses Use GI Panels
- Solid surface for small items that could fall through mesh or open beams.
- Strong and stiff for heavy cartons and sacks.
- Corrosion resistant galvanised finish for long life.
- Easy to fit on new or existing pallet racks, and easy to remove.
- Clean and smooth for picking zones and spare-part stores.
Where GI Drop Over Panels Fit Best
| Use | Why panels work |
|---|---|
| Building materials | Heavy boxes, tiles and fittings need a solid base |
| Auto spare parts | Small parts stay on the shelf |
| Food trading | Sacks and cartons sit flat without sagging |
| Picking levels in pallet racks | Staff pick by hand from a flat surface |
How to Order the Right Panels
- Measure the frame depth (front beam to back beam, outside edges).
- Measure the beam length and note the beam profile.
- Tell us the load per level so we can recommend panel thickness and supports.
- Count the levels and bays to be decked.
GI Panels vs Steel Mesh vs GI Grating
Choose GI drop over panels for a solid shelf. Choose steel wire mesh when sprinkler water and light need to pass through. Choose GI grating for walk-on floors, platforms and very heavy point loads.
Galvanised Finish and the UAE Climate
Many warehouses in the UAE, from Dubai and Sharjah to Ajman and Umm Al Quwain, are close to the coast, and humidity can rise sharply in summer, especially in warehouses without full air conditioning. Painted steel can show rust quickly where it is scratched by pallets. Galvanising coats the steel in zinc, which protects it even at small scratches, so GI drop over panels keep a clean appearance for many years with no repainting.
Installation Without Emptying the Warehouse
Drop over panels sit on the existing beams and need no bolts, so they can usually be fitted aisle by aisle while the rest of the warehouse keeps working. Our team clears one level at a time, fits the panels and moves on, keeping disruption to your operation low.
- Panels are cut to your frame depth and beam length.
- Edges fold over the beams for a secure, flush fit.
- Support bars can be added under heavy loads.
- Panels can be removed later if you change the layout.
Caring for GI Panels
GI panels need very little care. Keep loads within the rated limit, spread heavy items evenly, and avoid dragging pallets with nails across the surface. A quick wipe keeps picking levels clean.
Frequently Asked Details
Do panels need bolts?
No. The folded edges hold the panel on the beams. For some layouts, clips can be added to stop panels sliding.
Can panels hold a full pallet?
Pallets are normally stored directly on the beams. Panels are designed for cartons and loose stock; for pallets with weak bases, use pallet support bars or decking designed for the load.
Can I mix panels and mesh?
Yes. Many warehouses use GI panels on the picking levels and wire mesh on the upper pallet levels in the same racking run.
Price and Installation
Price depends on panel size, steel thickness and quantity. We supply and fit GI drop over panels on new racking projects or as an upgrade to your existing pallet racks across Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and all over the UAE. Send your rack measurements for a fast quote.