MOCO News: Create B2B E-Invoices in ZUGFeRD Format

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Create B2B E-Invoices: ZUGFeRD.

In line with the upcoming B2B e-invoicing mandate in Germany, MOCO now supports the hybrid e-invoice format ZUGFeRD. This format embeds machine-readable XML data within the familiar PDF.

ZUGFeRD

The Hybrid Format

The ZUGFeRD format looks like a standard PDF invoice but includes structured, machine-readable invoice data in XML format. This allows the invoice recipient to visually process and print the invoice as usual, while their ERP or accounting software can accurately read the machine-readable data. Key point:  In case of discrepancies, the data takes precedence. Therefore, the content of the visible PDF and the XML data must match.

ZUGFeRD in MOCO

As a German company, you can now comfortably approach the upcoming requirement to create e-invoices. You may have already used or tested the XRechnung format: Create B2B E-Invoices: XRechnung.

The ZUGFeRD format created by MOCO complies with the current standards (ZUGFeRD version 2.3.2 – Profile EN16931). Here, we show you how to familiarize yourself with the new format:

Getting Started 

Some clients may have already asked if you can send e-invoices, as processing structured invoice data can save time and reduce errors. Initially, select ZUGFeRD as the invoice format only for these specific clients (see instructions below). 

Create ZUGFeRD Invoices

1. Activate Invoice Format

If not already done: Activate e-invoices in the settings under "Invoicing" > "E-Invoice" and complete all details. More info in the manual

2. Check Letterhead for ZUGFeRD Invoices

The sender details and account information must match in both the PDF and XML.
To offer a quick and convenient solution, especially during the transition phase and when working with different invoice formats, you can use a different letterhead for ZUGFeRD invoices in MOCO if needed.

Select the "Different Letterhead" option under "ZUGFeRD" in the E-Invoice settings. This additional option will be available in the letterheads section (1)

3. Select Invoice Format for Client

Select the "ZUGFeRD (B2B)" invoice format for the client. MOCO automatically checks if the recipient's address can be read in a structured manner. Every new invoice for this client will now be created in the ZUGFeRD format. You can also see this in the invoice detail view (3).

B2B E-Rechnungen erstellen im Format ZUGFeRDEnglish image not yet available...

Important Notes

  • If you use a purchase order number for invoices: Activate the BT-13 data field
  • Additional individual details on the invoice, which you have recorded as custom fields: Place these, as recommended for XRechnungen, also in the introductory text, as custom fields cannot yet be delivered as structured data.
  • Attachments are integrated into the XML (structured data). The PDF automatically indicates the number of attachments.

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