NB Item – Non-sortable / non-belt-capable goods
NB Item refers to parcels that cannot be sorted automatically via the GLS conveyor system. This includes bulky, awkward or irregularly shaped parcels such as tyres, rolls, sacks or canisters. These goods are handled manually by GLS and are subject to special shipping guidelines. This differentiated handling ensures that even unusual consignments are delivered safely and reliably. NB item shipping complements our standard services and significantly expands your shipping options.
More options. More control. More shipping comfort.
With our NB item shipping, we offer you the flexibility to ship non-belt-capable goods such as tyres safely and efficiently – ideal for workshops, tyre dealers and e-commerce providers. Our manual sorting process ensures that even heavy, bulky or bundled shipments arrive reliably.
As a business customer, you benefit from predictable costs, transparent surcharges and fast transit times. Take advantage of our strong service – and take your tyre logistics to the next level.
What qualifies as an NB item
Non-belt-capable items (NB items) are parcel formats that cannot be automatically sorted via conveyor belts. These include, for example, metal boxes, canisters, bundled parcels, non-cuboid shipments, tyres or rolls. These parcels deviate from standard dimensions or are unsuitable for automated sorting due to their shape, nature or packaging and therefore require manual handling.
Important to understand about NB items: Non-belt-capable means that the consignment can basically be transported, but must be manually guided through the sorting system. In contrast, non-sortable consignments cannot be processed in our system at all – due to extreme dimensions, unstable packaging or unusual shapes – and must be recorded separately or may be excluded from shipping in individual cases. Below you will find an overview with example images to help you clearly categorise different NB item types.
Certified and approved for shipping
Label not readable or cannot be scanned automatically
General rules for NB item shipping
Become a GLS business customer today!
As a GLS business customer, you benefit from a transparent cost structure, fast transit times and a reliable partner – even for challenging goods such as tyres, rolls or canisters. For these non-belt-capable consignments, we offer clear surcharge rules so you can always calculate your logistics costs precisely – for example, during the peak season for tyre shipping.
This way, you retain full control over your shipping processes, manage your specialised logistics efficiently and ensure reliable deliveries even during peak periods. Rely on our years of experience in transport logistics.
