A device for compressing packaging sleeves includes at least two movably supported pressure bars for compressing the packaging sleeve, and at least one drive for moving the pressure bars. The pressure bars are supported in such a way that between the pressure bars a gap is created, the longitudinal direction of which corresponds to a transport direction of the packaging sleeve. The pressure bars are supported in such a way that the distance between the pressure bars is variable. The pressure bars are supported in such a way that the pressure bars are movable in the longitudinal direction of the gap. Also described is a corresponding method for compressing packaging sleeves.