Let me confess something real quick: a few years ago, I was that person who got a mini panic attack every time I had to send a package. Whether it was a birthday gift for my niece, a vintage coat I sold online, or important papers I needed to ship quickly—I was always worried about delays, damages, or just plain confusion at the post office.
But ever since I started using GLS-Pakete, sending and receiving parcels has gone from being a stressful chore to one of the most seamless parts of my routine.
And trust me, that’s saying something for someone who once taped a package so badly it fell apart before it even made it out the door (RIP, cardigan).
So, let me take you through how GLS quietly became a little hero in my everyday life—and why I’d recommend them to literally anyone who sends stuff regularly in Germany (or across Europe).
My “There Must Be a Better Way” Moment
The turning point happened the week before Christmas a couple years ago. You already know how chaotic that time is. I was trying to get all my gifts out to my family in three different parts of Germany—and I’ll be honest, I left it too late.
I ended up standing in a crowded postal shop with five boxes, sweating through my coat, trying to figure out how to fill out the right forms. There were signs everywhere but none of them clear, and the employees were (understandably) overwhelmed.
The result? One gift got returned because of an address typo, one arrived two weeks late, and I had to file a claim for a parcel that looked like it had been stepped on.
That’s when I said—“Next year, I’m doing it differently.”
So I asked around, read a few trusted customer reviews, and kept hearing about GLS. A few weeks later, I gave it a go—and what a game-changer it’s been.
What Is GLS-Pakete?
In case you’re not familiar, GLS (General Logistics Systems) is a major logistics company that specializes in reliable, fast, and modern parcel delivery across Germany and Europe.
Whether you’re sending a small package to the next town, a return to an online store, or shipping something cross-border, GLS has you covered with:
- Affordable shipping options
- A strong network of local ParcelShops
- Fast delivery times
- Real-time parcel tracking
- Secure handling
- Eco-minded services like contactless delivery and climate-neutral shipping
They’ve built a reputation for being both reliable and super convenient—perfect for people like me who want things to just work.
Why I Keep Coming Back to GLS
After two full years of using GLS-Pakete for everything—from eBay sales and personal gifts to returns and business samples—I can confidently say: they’re the most consistent and hassle-free option I’ve tried.
Here’s why:
1. Easy-to-Use ParcelShop Network
There’s a GLS ParcelShop literally five minutes from my flat. I didn’t even realize it existed until I searched the GLS website. That’s the thing—because GLS partners with local stores, you’ll often find a drop-off point at your standard convenience store, newsagent, or supermarket.
I don’t have to go out of my way. Most of my trips are “grab milk, drop package.”
The GLS website or mobile app shows all ParcelShop locations near you, their opening hours, and even how busy they might be. It makes the process effortless—especially when you’re short on time or patience.
2. Quick and Transparent Shipping
GLS has some of the fastest delivery times I’ve experienced. National shipping within Germany often takes just 1 business day, and when I’ve shipped to Austria and the Netherlands, it’s rarely taken more than 48 hours.
What’s more? Their real-time parcel tracking actually works reliably. I get updates at each key step, and recipients get their own alerts too—so I don’t field a million “where is it?” texts.
3. Affordable and Fair Prices
Sending a parcel with GLS doesn’t cost an arm and a leg—and you don’t need a business account or huge shipping volume to get fair rates.
You can easily check rates on their website depending on size and destination. For standard parcels within Germany, prices are very competitive (especially compared to alternative national services), and they don’t surprise you with weird hidden fees.
For people selling items online or small business owners doing regular shipments, this kind of fair pricing really adds up over time.
4. Excellent Packaging Tools and Advice
Not gonna lie, I used to dread packaging items (I have the spatial awareness of a goldfish). But GLS provides super clear packaging guidelines, size categories (XS to XL), and helpful charts for what box fits what price.
Even better, most ParcelShops also sell sturdy packaging materials onsite—boxes, tape, padding, the works.
And if you’re ever unsure, staff are usually happy to answer questions. Seriously—you’ll be surprised how helpful GLS ParcelShop employees are. No eye-rolls, no stress. Just solid service.
5. Climate-Neutral Shipping Option
One thing that really matters to me is supporting companies that take sustainability seriously, and GLS gets a gold star here too.
They offer climate-neutral parcel shipping, meaning they compensate for the emissions of your delivery through verified environmental projects. You simply check the box during checkout or label creation, and your shipment helps support efforts like forest conservation or renewable energy.
It’s a small action with a big feel-good factor—and you better believe I check that box every time I send something.
Returns Are Actually Simple (Yes, Really)
We’ve all been there: you order a jacket online, it doesn’t fit, and suddenly you’re holding a weird return slip wondering what language it’s in.
With GLS returns, it’s straightforward. Most retailers that partner with GLS give you a pre-paid return label—and you just drop the parcel off at your local ParcelShop. No queues. No extra fees (as long as you’re returning within their guidelines). No printer needed if the store provides a QR code.
And even if you’re handling a non-partnered return, creating a label through GLS’s website only takes a couple of minutes.
As someone who shops online often (possibly too often), I can’t stress enough how comforting it is to know I have a stress-free way to send things back.
My Small Online Side Hustle? Thriving Thanks to GLS
During lockdown, I started selling handmade candles and small vintage finds online. At first, I used the nearest postal option out of habit—but it was slow and the tracking was hit or miss.
Since switching to GLS, everything changed. The packages arrive faster, my customers are happier, and I trust the process from pickup to delivery. For someone like me who doesn’t run a giant business (yet!), GLS makes me feel like I’m shipping with the pros.
They even offer business solutions, but honestly, their personal-use system is already so user-friendly I haven’t even had to go there. But maybe one day!
Final Thoughts: GLS Is My Go-To, No-Brainer Parcel Partner
If you’ve made it this far, you already know how I feel. But just to say it clearly: GLS has made my life so much easier.
They’ve taken the stress, guesswork, and chaos out of sending and receiving parcels. Whether it’s a last-minute birthday gift, an online return, or a side hustle shipment—GLS just works.
So if you’re tired of long post office lines, mysterious tracking voids, or delayed deliveries, give GLS-Pakete a try. It’s reliable, affordable, eco-friendly, and honestly… kind of satisfying to use.
Consider this your sign to make the switch—you might never want to go back.
