A parcel sent with GLS goes through several delivery phases and is handled both automatically and manually during this process. Proper packaging is therefore essential for a successful delivery.

Shipments must be packed so that the contents are well protected, meaning that packaging must be suitable for processing and sorting in automatic sorting hubs. It is not possible to take extra precaution or take different packaging marks, such as fragile, this way up or handle with care etc., into consideration.

Packaging must be adapted to the contents and weight of the shipment, and proper packaging consists of both outer and inner packaging.

It is not allowed to send a partially packed shipment, all surfaces must be covered and protected. Nevertheless, the packaging can still be considered insufficient if it only consists of thin plastic, paper or alike. The better and more secure packaging, the greater the chance that your shipments will reach their recipient intact.

If it, despite expectations, happens that your shipment gets damaged during transport, it's important that you can prove that the contents of your parcel was properly packaged and protected. This is the only way you can ensure that you can get a compensation for the damage.

GLS has made a serie of videos that describes the guidelines on responsible packaging of electronics, fragile or liquid content etc. We recommend you click here and watch them.

GLS has also written some articles describing secure packaging. We advise you to go through and follow them before getting your shipments ready for dispatch, in order to ensure a problem-free delivery: 

Are you one of those who occasionally send packages that don't exactly fit in a square cardboard shipping box? Then you are also at risk of being charged for what GLS calls a non-conveyable shipment.

Here's a guide as to what's considered a conveyable shipment, as well as which packaging types are approved by GLS:

What they have in common is that they are not regular in shape, they're too big or too heavy, and that they're not stackable.

Note! The above shows only some examples and other may occur.

Despite what some companies who are selling packaging claim, fix-on cardboard extensions for tubes are not approved packaging when shipping with GLS Denmark.

If the parcel is too large, too heavy or not properly packaged and suitable for parcel distribution, GLS reserves the right to reject the shipment and return it to the sender at the sender's expense.

GLS allows you to use soft packaging (a strong plastic bag) when you send a smaller, soft item e.g. a piece of clothing. Always use a sturdy cardboard box, when sending hard content. Go to GLS' requirements for proper packaging for more information.

And read more in GLS' General Terms and Conditions.