GLS launches GLS Connect to unify shipping tools

GLS has launched GLS Connect, a new digital platform aimed at giving customers more visibility, control and centralized account management across shipping workflows. The rollout adds integrated domestic and international shipping tools, tracking and reporting as the company expands its digital services beyond the portal.

Why it matters: - GLS Connect is designed to reduce shipping admin work and give customers one place to manage domestic and international shipments, tracking, billing and account settings. - The launch extends GLS’s push into digital shipping tools, including AI-driven tracking and direct system integrations. - Businesses using GLS can now choose between the new portal, Ship GLS, direct APIs and network access that supports different operating models.

What happened: - GLS launched GLS Connect on Oct. 12, 2026, as a new digital shipping platform for customers in the Western U.S. and Texas. - The platform brings together shipment creation, visibility, reporting and account administration in a unified digital environment. - GLS said customers can start using GLS Connect now by logging in on the GLS website and selecting “Try the New Portal.” - GLS also directed customers to a GLS Connect resource page for transition help and more information.

The details: - GLS Connect supports single-workflow domestic and international shipping, including multi-parcel shipments. - The platform includes estimated rates and transit times during shipment creation. - A centralized dashboard adds expanded search and filtering for shipment activity. - Customers can review shipment status, tracking details and export shipment data for reporting, reconciliation and operational analysis. - Pickup management now happens inside the portal, including scheduling and eligible upcoming pickup requests. - Account and billing tools include invoices, billing information, fuel surcharge details and centralized user, group and shipping preference controls. - The portal also provides direct access to claims, support, shipping supplies and user guides. - GLS Connect carries forward address books, billing information, account settings and available shipment history so customers do not need to recreate that data. - GLS said the platform builds on investments in AI-powered real-time tracking, API integrations and international network connectivity. - The company’s digital capabilities include direct domestic API integrations that connect GLS shipping services with customers’ business systems. - GLS also offers connectivity to its European network, including parcel shops and parcel lockers for international shipments. - Ship GLS and shipping technology partner integrations remain available as additional access points. - GLS President JoDawn Whitlock said the launch reflects the company’s commitment to improving how customers do business with GLS.

Between the lines: - The launch signals GLS is trying to make shipping feel more like a software workflow and less like a set of separate tasks. - By keeping legacy data and adding integrations, GLS is lowering the friction for customers to move onto the new portal. - The mix of portal tools, APIs and partner integrations suggests GLS wants to serve both smaller shippers and businesses with more complex system needs.

What's next: - GLS said customers can continue transitioning into GLS Connect now through the company website. - The broader digital strategy appears centered on expanding connected shipping tools across tracking, automation and international delivery options. - GLS said its mix of tools is meant to let customers choose the level of integration that fits their operations.

The bottom line: - GLS is betting that a more unified digital shipping experience will deepen customer loyalty and make its service easier to use at scale.