GLS tracking
How to track my GLS package?
Ordertracker provides a simple solution to track your GLS packages. To begin, you'll need a GLS tracking number provided by the sender or the retailer.
Enter your tracking number in the above field and hit "enter." Our tracker will then fetch the latest tracking details for your package.
You'll see a timeline showing your package's journey, including its current location, transit history, and expected delivery date. This keeps you informed about your GLS package in real time.
Where can I find my GLS tracking number?
Finding your GLS tracking number is usually simple. When you buy an item online or send a package, the tracking number is typically given by the online store or sender. If you're the recipient, the sender often provides it via email, text, or on the order confirmation page.
For online purchases, log in to your store account to find the tracking number in your order history or tracking section. You can also find it in shipping notifications sent to your email or phone.
Once you have the tracking number, you can easily use Ordertracker to monitor your package's progress. This tool shows your package's journey and estimated delivery date.
Why isn't my GLS package moving in the package tracking history?
Dealing with a GLS package that appears stuck in tracking can be frustrating. Yet, there are steps to tackle this. If you've been using Ordertracker and see no progress, start by being patient. Delays, like customs or logistical issues, can arise.
If the delay remains, contact GLS or the sender for specifics. They can offer insight or investigate. Keep your tracking number ready for a smoother process. Sometimes, misrouting or address errors cause delays. Confirm the details provided to you by the sender. Remember, GLS customer service or the sender can help resolve shipping delays.
When I track my GLS package, why does it show as "returned"?
If you're tracking your GLS package and it's marked as "returned", this usually means that the package has been sent back to the sender or the shipment origin location for a specific reason. There are a few common explanations for why a GLS package might be labeled as "returned":
An unclear or inaccurate address from sender or recipient might lead GLS to be unable to deliver, resulting in a return.
If multiple delivery attempts fail, GLS may return the package instead of holding it indefinitely.
If the recipient doesn't collect the package within a timeframe from a post office or delivery center, GLS might return it.
International packages can be return due to customs problems like missing or incorrect documents.
If your GLS package is "returned" in tracking, contact the sender or GLS customer service. This clarifies the return reason and lets you explore solutions like resending or refunding. Please note that return procedures can vary based on GLS policies and circumstances.
Why does the GLS parcel tracking timeline indicate that my order cannot be found?
When your GLS parcel tracking lacks information, it may indicate a "cannot be found" message. This happens for a few reasons:
Ensure your tracking number is accurate. Even a small mistake can prevent the system from recognizing your package.
Sometimes, tracking details might be slower to update in GLS system. Wait and check again later for potential updates.
If the package was recently sent, it might not be processed by GLS yet. Tracking should appear shortly.
About GLS
GLS, General Logistics Systems, is a European parcel and express service provider. With a strong presence in Europe and a growing international network, GLS offers reliable and high-quality shipping solutions. The company focuses on providing efficient and sustainable delivery services for both B2B and B2C customers. GLS is known for its advanced technology, customer-centric approach, and commitment to environmental responsibility.
How to contact GLS?
If you are experiencing issues with the delivery process managed by GLS, please do not hesitate to contact their customer support.
European courier subsidiary of Royal Mail
GLS (General Logistics Systems) is one of the leading parcel carriers in Europe. Originally Dutch and a subsidiary of the British postal group Royal Mail, this courier company operates a vast network covering almost all of Europe and has also established itself in North America. It offers businesses and individuals fast and reliable shipping solutions, both for domestic and international deliveries, while maintaining a professional and neutral approach worthy of an encyclopedic reference.
History
GLS was born in the late 1990s from Royal Mail's desire to create a European parcel delivery network. The British group then acquired the company German Parcel in Germany as well as several other logistics companies in Europe, laying the foundations of GLS. In the early 2000s, the GLS brand was gradually launched across the continent, unifying these subsidiaries under a common identity. Since these origins, GLS has continued to grow: its network has expanded by acquiring national carriers in many European countries, thus consolidating its presence. Subsequently, in the mid-2010s, GLS also established a foothold in North America by acquiring local players in the sector, extending its service to the United States and Canada. This gradual expansion has made GLS an integrated logistics network of international dimension.
Network and geographical coverage
The geographical coverage of GLS is essentially pan-European. Thanks to its own subsidiaries and partners, GLS is present in the vast majority of European countries, ensuring true cross-border service. The group also has locations in North America, notably in several US states as well as in Canada, allowing it to offer delivery services in these territories. For destinations outside its direct scope, GLS collaborates with correspondents and partner networks to deliver shipments almost anywhere in the world.
The GLS logistics network relies on a dense and interconnected infrastructure. Its headquarters is based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, and the group operates numerous sorting centers strategically distributed across Europe. These central platforms route parcels between different countries and regions. In each country where GLS is established, there are national sorting centers and regional distribution agencies, responsible for local sorting and "last mile" delivery. Daily connections between international sorting centers ensure smooth parcel flow on a European scale. This networked organization allows GLS to effectively cover both dense urban areas and more remote regions, ensuring continuity of service across its entire covered territory.
Delivery services and solutions
GLS offers a complete range of parcel transport services, tailored to different logistical needs. GLS's offerings include:
- National standard delivery: a reliable and generally very fast parcel delivery service on domestic territory, for the daily shipments of businesses and individuals.
- International standard delivery: shipping solutions abroad (mainly in Europe, but also beyond via its extended network), with controlled lead times to connect major international markets.
- Express delivery: an accelerated service allowing priority distribution of parcels. This option ensures faster than normal delivery, often the day after shipment or within a guaranteed time slot, to meet the urgencies and high demands of certain shipments.
- Parcel shop delivery: GLS relies on a large network of parcel collection points (called ParcelShops within the group, often in partnership with local brands like Mondial Relay). This service Shop Delivery allows recipients to choose a nearby parcel relay where their shipment will be deposited, offering a flexible solution for receiving a package at their convenience. Once the parcel is delivered to the relay point, the recipient is informed (by email or SMS) and can collect it within a defined period.
- Flexible delivery options: GLS offers some flexibility to recipients through services like the FlexDeliveryService . Specifically, it is possible to change the delivery terms after shipment: reschedule the delivery date, choose a new delivery address, request the parcel to be deposited in a relay or with a trusted neighbor, etc. These options allow the delivery to be adjusted to the recipient's constraints to increase the success of the distribution.
- Additional services: in addition to pure transport, GLS offers additional logistical services. For example, the cash on delivery service (payment on delivery) may be available for shippers who wish to collect payment upon delivery of the parcel. Similarly, ad valorem insurance can be taken out to cover the value of the goods shipped. GLS also handles the management of parcel returns on behalf of e-merchants, facilitating the reshipment of goods returned by customers to the seller.
Service quality
GLS places a strong priority on service quality and delivery reliability. As a major player in parcel logistics, the company aims for a high level of customer satisfaction. This is reflected in rigorous monitoring of performance indicators such as respected delivery times and the rate of parcels delivered without incident. GLS implements standardized and proven processes at every stage of the logistics chain to limit errors and delays.
The reliability of the GLS service is based in particular on the efficiency of its sorting and transport network, as well as on the training of its staff and delivery personnel in best practices. Most shipments are delivered on time and in good condition, reflecting the constant quality objective set by the company. In the event of an unforeseen event, GLS provides corrective measures: for example, a second presentation of the parcel is generally included at no extra cost when a recipient was absent during the first visit. In addition, each delivered parcel is subject to secure proof of delivery (by digital signature of the recipient on the delivery person's terminal, or via a supporting photo in case of mailbox deposit) thus ensuring traceability and authenticity of the delivery. All these provisions aim to establish a climate of trust with customers and to consolidate GLS's reputation as a quality carrier.
Innovation and sustainable development
To stay at the forefront of the logistics sector, GLS relies on both technological innovation and sustainable development commitments. On the technological front, GLS continuously invests in advanced IT systems to optimize shipment management. Parcel tracking is done in real time thanks to a robust digital infrastructure connecting all sorting centers and agencies: each package is scanned at every stage and the information is instantly updated in the central system. GLS offers its shipper customers dedicated online tools (such as secure web platforms and integration APIs) to easily prepare and track their shipments. Recipients benefit from automated notifications (by email or SMS) informing them of the delivery progress, and can use the website or mobile apps to track their parcel. Innovation is also evident in GLS sorting centers, where increasing automation (mechanized sorting, automatic label reading, etc.) allows large volumes to be processed quickly and accurately. By leveraging these cutting-edge technologies, GLS continuously improves the reliability, transparency, and speed of its delivery service.
At the same time, GLS integrates concrete actions in favor of the environment and social responsibility into its development strategy. Aware of the carbon footprint generated by parcel transport, the group has launched initiatives to reduce its ecological impact under the aegis of programs often designated internally (for example, ThinkGreen initiatives). GLS is gradually investing in low-emission delivery vehicles: electric or compressed natural gas vans are notably being deployed in certain cities for last-mile rounds. Optimizing delivery routes using IT tools also helps reduce distances traveled and fuel consumption. In addition, GLS participates in carbon offset projects and encourages recycling (for example by reusing or recycling packaging where possible). On the societal level, the company supports various local initiatives and ensures good working conditions for its employees and partners, reflecting a global commitment beyond mere economic performance. These combined efforts in logistics innovation and sustainable development illustrate GLS's desire to combine operational efficiency and responsibility, with a view to continuously improving its services as well as its environmental footprint.
Operation and delivery tracking
The process of routing a parcel at GLS follows a well-defined logistics scheme, with clearly identified successive stages. At each phase, the parcel is scanned and recorded in the computer system, generating tracking statuses that can be viewed online. This real-time traceability allows shippers and recipients to know precisely the status of the parcel throughout its journey. From initial pickup to final delivery, every movement in the GLS network is documented. In general, a shipment will follow the main steps below:
- Pickup / collection: The parcel is collected by GLS either directly at the place of shipment (pickup from the shipper at the agreed time), or deposited by the shipper in a GLS center or approved relay point. This is the starting point where GLS physically takes charge of the shipment.
- Departure sorting center: The parcel is routed to the regional or national sorting center closest to the point of origin. It is scanned upon entry, then sorted with other parcels according to its destination. This step initiates its journey through the transport network.
- Transit between sorting centers: If the delivery of the parcel involves traveling a long distance or changing geographical area (for example, a shipment to another country), the package transits via one or more GLS sorting centers. These international distribution platforms ensure the grouping of parcels by major destinations and their transfer from one national network to another. The parcel can thus travel from sorting center to sorting center until it approaches its arrival region.
- Local delivery agency: Once arrived in the final country or region, the parcel is directed to the local GLS agency responsible for distribution in the recipient's area. It is scanned upon entry to this delivery agency, indicating that it is ready for the last step. At this stage, tracking generally indicates that the parcel has "arrived at the delivery agency" near the recipient.
- Out for delivery: The parcel is entrusted to a GLS delivery person for the day's delivery round. In other words, it is placed in the delivery vehicle serving the sector of the recipient's address. This status corresponds to "in delivery": the recipient can expect to receive the parcel shortly.
- Final delivery: The GLS delivery person delivers the parcel to the recipient's address. Depending on the circumstances, delivery can be made in person against the recipient's signature, deposited in the mailbox (if size permits and security justifies it), or handed over to a trusted third party (for example a neighbor or a caretaker, in accordance with the recipient's instructions). Once delivery is made, the tracking status changes to "delivered". If delivery could not be completed on the first attempt (recipient absent, incorrect address, etc.), GLS will apply the planned procedures (such as a new attempt or holding the parcel) as previously described.
Each of these steps generates a specific status visible via the GLS online tracking tool. Shippers and recipients can thus follow the progress of their shipment step by step. In the section below, the main GLS tracking statuses are presented along with their exact meaning in English.
GLS parcel tracking statuses
| Status | Description |
|---|---|
| Pending pickup | The parcel has been prepared by the shipper and registered in the GLS system, but it has not yet been physically collected by the carrier |
| Picked up by GLS | The parcel has been collected by GLS and integrated into its logistics network. It is now taken care of and will be routed according to the delivery circuit |
| Arrived at GLS sorting center | The parcel has arrived at a GLS network sorting platform. It has just been scanned upon entry to a sorting center (sorting center or agency) and will be sorted for the next stage of its journey |
| Left GLS sorting center | The parcel has left the sorting center where it was located and continues its routing to the next stage (another sorting center or the final delivery agency) |
| In transit | The parcel is in transit in the GLS transport network, heading towards its destination. It is progressing towards the final distribution site |
| Arrived at delivery agency | The parcel has arrived at the local GLS agency that will perform the final distribution. It is ready to be entrusted to a delivery person for delivery in the recipient's area |
| Out for delivery | The parcel has been entrusted to the delivery person and is currently on the delivery round. It will be delivered to the recipient on the scheduled day |
| Delivered | The parcel has been successfully delivered to the recipient. The delivery has taken place and is confirmed by the delivery person (proof of delivery recorded) |
| Recipient absent | The delivery person could not deliver the parcel because no one was present at the address during the visit. A delivery attempt notice has been left, and the parcel is returned to the agency awaiting further instructions |
| Delivery rescheduled | A new delivery has been scheduled following an initial failure or upon request. The parcel will be delivered on a later date agreed with the recipient |
| Deposited at parcel shop | Unable to be delivered directly, the parcel has been delivered to a GLS parcel shop. The recipient can collect it from the indicated relay, with an ID |
| On hold at GLS depot | The parcel is temporarily held at the local GLS agency. It is on hold (for example, awaiting delivery rescheduling, additional information, or collection by the recipient) |
| Returned to sender | The parcel could not be delivered to the recipient and, after the required attempts or hold periods, it has been returned to the original sender |
| Refused by recipient | The recipient refused to accept the parcel upon presentation. It was therefore not delivered and will either be returned to the sender or held pending instructions |
| Incomplete address | The recipient's address information is insufficient or incorrect, preventing delivery. GLS is awaiting address details to properly route the parcel |
| Customs clearance in progress | The parcel is being processed by customs services (import/export controls). It will be released and routed as soon as customs formalities are completed |
| Shipment canceled | The shipment was canceled after its creation. The data associated with this parcel has been deleted from the GLS system and the parcel will not be picked up |
| Delivered to a neighbor | The parcel has been delivered to a neighbor of the recipient. This trusted third party accepted the parcel in the recipient's absence, and proof of delivery (signature) was collected |
| Deposited in mailbox | The parcel has been delivered directly to the recipient's mailbox. This situation usually occurs for small parcels not requiring a signature |
| Access impossible | The delivery person could not access the delivery address. This can happen, for example, if an entry code is missing or if access to the building is locked. The parcel is returned to the agency awaiting a solution |