Whether it’s a readable PDF invoice with embedded XML data, a fully structured XRechnung, or automated exchange via Peppol—SEW-EURODRIVE supports the common standards for modern and efficient invoice processing.
SEW-EURODRIVE offers invoices in standardized e-invoice formats. Flexibly choose the appropriate format and the optimal transmission method for your system environment.
What is ZUGFeRD?
What is ZUGFeRD?
ZUGFeRD provides a connection between a human-readable PDF and structured XML data in a single file. This allows invoices to be both manually verified and automatically processed in ERP systems. Depending on the profile used, ZUGFeRD can comply with the European standard EN 16931. The ZUGFeRD EN 16931 profile fully complies with this standard. We provide this profile.
- Hybrid:Creates a connection between a visual PDF representation and structured XML data.
- Flexible: Supports both manual verification and automated processing.
- Standard-compliant: The ZUGFeRD EN 16931 profile complies with the European standard EN 16931.
What is an XRechnung?
What is an XRechnung?
The XRechnung is an XML-based format for electronic invoices. All invoice data is transmitted in a structured format and can be processed directly in ERP or financial systems. Unlike ZUGFeRD, XRechnung does not include a PDF version of the invoice. XRechnung is a German implementation of the European standard EN 16931 and meets its requirements.
- Structured:Contains all invoice data as a pure XML file (without PDF).
- Automated: Ideal for direct processing in ERP and financial systems
- Compliant:Meets the requirements of the European standard EN 16931.
- Public customers:Widely used in the German B2G environment and often mandatory.
What is Peppol BIS Billing?
What is Peppol BIS Billing?
Peppol BIS Billing is an XML-based format for electronic invoices and is used for standardized exchange via the Peppol network. Like XRechnung, it is based on the European standard EN 16931 and enables the automated processing of invoices. Transmission takes place directly and securely from system to system via the Peppol network.
- Standard: Based on the European standard EN 16931.
- Direct: Secure transmission from system to system via the Peppol network instead of via e-mail.
- Automated: Ideal for digital processing in ERP and financial systems.
- International: Widely used for cross-border electronic invoice exchange.
Security and Compliance Guaranteed
Protecting your invoice data is our top priority. All digital transmission formats provided comply with the strict guidelines of the European standard EN 16931, meet the legal GoBD requirements for digital invoice auditing, and are encrypted in full compliance with the GDPR.
There are no additional costs on our end for receiving electronic invoices. Whether costs are incurred on the customer’s end depends on the systems used and any necessary adjustments to internal processes.
Yes. If multiple transmission methods are offered, the desired transmission method can generally be changed at a later date. Please notify us of any changes in a timely manner so that uninterrupted delivery can be ensured. To do so, please contact de.businesspartner@sew-eurodrive.de .
The structured electronic invoice formats we offer as e-invoices meet the requirements of Section 14 of the German Value-Added Tax Act (UStG). The proper processing and retention of received invoices in accordance with the German Principles of Accounting and Bookkeeping (GoBD) is the responsibility of the respective invoice recipient.
No special software is required simply to receive an e-invoice. However, suitable software may be necessary to display, verify, process, and properly archive the structured invoice data. Whether adjustments are necessary depends on your existing system infrastructure and your internal processes.
No. The switch to electronic invoices affects only the method of invoice transmission. Existing payment terms, payment deadlines, and contractual agreements remain unaffected.
As of January 1, 2025, a PDF-only invoice is no longer considered an e-invoice under Section 14 of the German Value-Added Tax Act (UStG) for VAT purposes, but rather as an “other invoice.” Due to the statutory transitional provisions, other invoices may be approved until December 31, 2026, and under certain conditions, even until December 31, 2027. A PDF file provided in addition to a structured e-invoice may serve the purposes of readability and visual inspection, but does not replace the structured invoice data record.
As of January 1, 2025, domestic businesses must, in principle, be able to receive e-invoices for domestic B2B transactions. Transitional provisions apply to the issuance of e-invoices: As of January 1, 2027, companies with total revenue exceeding 800,000 euros in the preceding calendar year are generally required to issue e-invoices. Starting January 1, 2028, this requirement generally applies to all domestic businesses subject to the statutory regulation. Statutory exceptions remain unaffected.
Electronic invoicing is carried out in accordance with applicable legal requirements. To the extent that a law requires an e-invoice to be issued, the invoice recipient’s consent to its transmission is not required; there is generally no right to an alternative form of invoice. Legal exceptions and transitional provisions remain unaffected.
Please ensure that the billing and contact information you have on file with us is up to date. Please notify us of any changes in a timely manner to ensure error-free delivery.
If you have questions about electronic invoicing, please contact your usual contact person or de.businesspartner@sew-eurodrive.de