MOCO News: Creating B2B E-Invoices in ZUGFeRD Format

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Creating 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 usual PDF.

ZUGFeRD

The Hybrid Format

The ZUGFeRD format looks like a standard PDF invoice. However, it also contains 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 forthcoming requirement to create e-invoices. You may have already implemented or tested the XRechnung format: Creating 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 best familiarise yourself with the new format:

First Steps 

Some clients may have already inquired 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). 

Creating ZUGFeRD Invoices

1. Activate Invoice Format

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

To do this, select the "Different Letterhead" option under "ZUGFeRD" in the E-Invoice settings. An additional option will then be offered in the letterheads (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 ZUGFeRD(English image not yet available)

Important Notes

  • If you use an order number for invoices: Activate the data field BT-13
  • Custom Fields: Additional individual invoice details are provided via the Remarks data field.
  • Attachments are integrated into the XML (structured data). The PDF includes an automatic note indicating the number of attachments.

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