The Glmehs 50 was developed by Deutsche Bundesbahn as a longer variant of the first UIC standard type. Despite its larger dimensions, the maximum permissible load capacity remained unchanged at 20 tonnes, as it utilised identical components to the Gmhs 53. A distinctive feature of the Glmehs 50 was its factory-fitted 2.0-metre-wide loading doors. Another notable characteristic was the U-shaped box profiles made of steel, which, in the earliest production series, were mounted vertically along the sides.As was typical for the time, the wagons of the first Glmehs 50 production series featured side panels made from wooden planks, which were later replaced with film-coated plywood panels. All 280 wagons from the first series were equipped with both steam and electric heating pipes, making them suitable for transporting parcel freight in fast and express trains.
