Banding module for a converting machine

A banding module for applying bands around stacks of sheet elements, the banding module comprising:

• a support surface, and
• a band guide defining a banding zone located vertically below said band guide,
• wherein the banding module further comprises a first lateral guide and a second lateral guide configured to contact lateral sides of the stack as it is introduced into the banding module, and wherein a gap is formed in each the first and second lateral guides, and
• wherein a first and second movable central guide surface are positioned in each respective gap, the central guide surfaces being movable between a closed position in which a longitudinal extension of the central guide surfaces is aligned with the longitudinal extension of the first and second lateral guides and such that the central guide surfaces are configured to contact the lateral sides of the stack as the stack is transported into the banding zone, and an open position in which a band can move from the band guide and contact the stack of sheet elements without touching the first and second central guide surfaces.