GLS offers a parcel tracking system that provides customers with real-time updates on the status of their shipments, whether domestic or international. Each parcel is assigned a tracking number, allowing you to track your package's progress through various platforms such as the GLS website, mobile app, or third-party services like Ship24. This multi-platform accessibility helps both individuals and businesses stay informed about their deliveries, reducing uncertainty and improving logistics management.
How to Track GLS Orders
When your parcel is dispatched, you receive a GLS tracking number. This number is essential for tracking your shipment and should be kept for future reference.
On the GLS Website
You can easily track your GLS parcels through the GLS website:
- Go to the official GLS tracking page.
- Find the tracking option on the homepage, where you can enter your shipment number.
- Enter your GLS parcel number in the designated field and click "Search."
On the GLS Mobile App
For on-the-go tracking, the GLS mobile app is a handy tool:
- Download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
- After installation, open the app and select the tracking option from the main menu.
- Enter your GLS tracking ID in the provided field. The app will display real-time updates, including the parcel's current location and the estimated delivery window.
On Ship24
Ship24 offers a streamlined approach to tracking your GLS orders, especially useful for individuals managing multiple shipments:
- Visit the Ship24 homepage or the search field above.
- Enter your tracking number (you can track up to 10 parcels simultaneously).
- Click on the search button.
Ship24’s universal tracking system provides a competitive advantage by allowing users to track not only GLS shipments but also parcels from thousands of other couriers globally such as La Poste, USPS, and China Post. This makes it a comprehensive solution for eCommerce sellers and buyers.
Ship24’s tracking API solutions, which allow businesses to integrate tracking into their platforms, can offer similar advantages, providing a smooth experience for eCommerce sellers.
Tracking Number and its Format
Every parcel shipped through GLS is assigned a tracking number, allowing you to monitor your package’s journey from dispatch to delivery. The tracking number is crucial for accessing real-time updates and checking the status of your shipment.
Where to Find the GLS Tracking Number
You can typically find the GLS tracking number in several locations:
- Shipping Confirmation Email
- Retailer’s Website or Order History
- Parcel Label
Format
GLS tracking numbers typically consist of 8 to 20 alphanumeric characters, depending on the service and region. An example of a GLS tracking number might look like 12345678 or GL1234567890DE. This format can vary slightly depending on whether the shipment is domestic or international.
Once you have your tracking number, you can enter it on the Ship24 tracking page to get the latest updates on your parcel's status, no matter which carriers handle it during its journey.
GLS Express Delivery
Tracking a GLS Express shipment is a simple and efficient process. After dispatching a parcel, you will receive a unique tracking number, which serves as the key to accessing real-time updates on your package's location and estimated delivery. This tracking number can be entered on the GLS website or the GLS Mobile App to retrieve accurate shipment details.
In addition to GLS’s tracking tools, third-party platforms such as Ship24 provide an alternative solution, gathering data from over 1,500 couriers globally. This means that with Ship24, you can follow your GLS package across various stages of its journey, especially if it’s handed over to multiple couriers along the way. Retaining your tracking number until the delivery is complete is crucial for monitoring the progress of your shipment.
Track International GLS Parcels
GLS operates in over 40 countries across Europe, including the UK, Belgium, Ireland, and Germany. They also extend services to North America, covering the USA and Canada. For international shipments, you can track your parcels by entering their tracking number on the GLS website or using a universal tracking tool like Ship24.
Ship24 allows simultaneous tracking of up to 10 GLS shipments, with updates delivered in real time. This feature is particularly helpful when shipping internationally, where parcels are often transferred between different couriers during transit. Typical international delivery times for GLS within Europe range from 48 to 96 hours, depending on the destination.
GLS SaturdayService
GLS provides delivery services between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM on weekdays. For those requiring weekend deliveries, GLS’s SaturdayService ensures that parcels are delivered before noon on Saturdays in select European countries.
To track a SaturdayService parcel, users can enter their tracking number on the GLS website or Ship24. With Ship24, users can receive real-time updates on their parcel’s progress, offering added convenience for weekend deliveries.
Common GLS Tracking Notifications and What They Mean
When your GLS parcel moves through the delivery process, it generates a series of tracking updates. These notifications provide important information about the status of the shipment. Below are common GLS tracking updates along with their descriptions, helping both senders and recipients better understand each stage of the journey.
| Tracking Notifications | Description |
| The parcel has reached the parcel center. | This means the package has arrived at a GLS sorting facility, where it will be processed and sorted for further delivery. |
| The parcel data was entered into the GLS IT system; the parcel was not yet handed over to GLS. | This notification indicates that the sender has registered the parcel and generated a tracking number, but the package is yet to be given to GLS for shipping. |
| The parcel was handed over to GLS. | GLS has received the parcel, and it will now be processed for transit. |
| The parcel is expected to be delivered during the day. | The delivery is scheduled for today, and the package is on its way to the recipient. |
| The parcel has been delivered. | The package has reached its final destination, and the recipient has taken possession. |
| The parcel has left the parcel center. | The package has been dispatched from the GLS sorting facility and is en route to the next stage in the delivery process. |
| The parcel is stored in the parcel center. | The package is being held at a GLS warehouse, often awaiting further processing or rescheduling for delivery. |
| The parcel has reached the parcel center and was sorted manually. | The package was sorted manually at the facility, which may happen if it requires special handling or if there are automated sorting issues. |
| The parcel has been delivered at the ParcelShop (see ParcelShop information). | The package has been dropped off at a GLS ParcelShop for the recipient to collect. Recipients can check ParcelShop details for pickup times and locations. |
| The parcel has been delivered/dropped off. | The package has been successfully left at the recipient's specified delivery address. |
| The parcel was provided by the sender for collection by GLS. | The sender has prepared the parcel, and GLS is expected to collect it for shipment. |
| The parcel has reached the ParcelShop. | The package is at the ParcelShop. |
| The parcel is stored in the parcel center to be delivered at a new delivery date. | The package is being held at a GLS facility and will be delivered on a rescheduled date. This usually occurs when the original delivery attempt was unsuccessful. |
| The parcel could not be delivered as the consignee was absent. | The delivery attempt failed because no one was available at the address to receive the parcel. A new delivery attempt will be scheduled. |
| The parcel has been picked up by GLS. | GLS has collected the package from the sender and will begin processing it for transit. |
| The parcel could not be delivered as further address information is needed. | The delivery was unsuccessful because the provided address was incomplete or incorrect. The sender or recipient needs to provide additional details. |
When you enter your tracking number on Ship24, you can get a complete overview of your tracking notifications as shown below.
Tracking Number Not Updating
At times, your GLS tracking number may not update immediately due to processing delays. This can occur as the parcel is scanned and the information is transmitted to the system. In such cases, it’s recommended to wait for a few hours, or up to 24 hours, before checking the status again.
Be sure to double-check your tracking number for any errors, as mistyped characters could result in missing information. If the tracking status hasn't been updated after a few days, it's advisable to contact the sender or reach out to your nearest GLS office to investigate further
Delivery Time
GLS offers reliable and fast delivery services across Europe and beyond. Domestic shipments, such as within Ireland or the UK, generally arrive within 24 hours, with some deliveries even occurring the same day in certain areas. Most parcels within the UK are delivered within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the service type and destination.
For international deliveries, GLS typically ships within 24 to 96 hours across Europe. Shipments to nearby countries such as Belgium, France, and Germany generally take 1 to 2 days, while more distant locations like Spain or Finland may take 3 to 6 days, depending on logistics and customs processing. Delivery times to the United States and other non-European countries can vary, with parcels usually arriving within 3 to 5 days.
GLS operates Monday to Friday during standard business hours, and express delivery options are available for time-sensitive shipments. The GLS Express service ensures next-day delivery to many European locations, and shipments that do not arrive on time may be eligible for refunds, depending on the circumstances. For destinations outside Europe, such as the United States or Asia, GLS Express typically delivers in 48 to 96 hours.
For those looking for greater flexibility, GLS also offers delivery to ParcelShops, which allows recipients to collect their parcels at their convenience. This service is particularly useful in countries like Belgium, Denmark, and Germany, where recipients may prefer to pick up their shipments from a location near their home or workplace.
My parcel has been damaged, what do I do?
If a parcel from GLS arrives damaged, the responsibility primarily lies with the sender, as they should ensure proper packaging of the goods. Here's what to do in case of external or internal damage to your parcel:
Refusing Delivery of a Damaged Parcel
In cases where you notice visible external damage to the parcel upon delivery, you have the right to refuse acceptance. GLS will then return the parcel to the nearest depot and inform the sender about the issue. This allows the sender to take further action, including raising a complaint with GLS or arranging a replacement.
Handling Hidden Damage
If you accept the parcel and later discover internal damage after opening it, you must contact the sender directly. Since GLS is not responsible for inspecting the contents of packages, any claims related to damaged goods must be resolved between the recipient and the sender. Be sure to document the damage with photos and contact the sender immediately for next steps.
Contact Information
If you need assistance with GLS services, prices, parcel tracking, or any shipment-related queries, GLS customer service offers several contact options. Below are the main customer support contact details for various countries:
| Location | Contact Number |
| Europe | +44 247 621 3455 |
| Ireland | 01 8606200 |
| Italy | +39 199 151188 |
| Germany | 06677-646907000 |
| United Kingdom | 0344 800 44 66 |
Note: For calls made outside the UK, add the appropriate international dialling code. Be aware of time zone differences across Europe, which may affect operating hours.
Other Methods
- Email: You can send an email to GLS customer service at DC@gls-germany.com for inquiries, particularly for issues in Germany.
- Online Contact Form: GLS offers an online form for written inquiries, which can be accessed via their official website.
- Mobile App: The MyGLS app provides automated notifications and shipment updates without the need to manually track parcels.
- Chat Support: On the GLS website, users can access a live chat feature, allowing direct interaction with customer service representatives during business hours.
About General Logistics Systems (GLS)
General Logistics Systems (GLS), founded in 1999 in Amsterdam, is now a significant player in global logistics and parcel delivery. Since becoming a subsidiary of Royal Mail, GLS has expanded its network, serving businesses and consumers across Europe, North America, and beyond. Specializing in both domestic and international shipping, GLS delivers reliable solutions for a variety of delivery needs, including cross-border shipments within Europe and the United States.
GLS operates alongside other major couriers such as DHL and UPS, often competing on delivery speed, coverage, and specialized services. Moreover, GLS is recognized for its strong presence in Europe, offering extensive parcel services across the continent.
