What is the difference between the ZUGFeRD format and the X-invoice?
The difference between the ZUGFeRD format and the X-bill lies primarily in the technical design and the type of processing:
- ZUGFeRD combines a human-readable PDF/A3 with an embedded XML file. This means that invoices can be processed both manually (as a PDF as usual) and automatically (via the XML data). The layout of the PDF remains identical to previous invoices, so that customers retain the familiar appearance, even if automated XML processing is not yet possible.
- X-bill is a purely XML-based format that was specially developed for the fully automated processing of invoices. It complies with EU Directive 2014/55/EU and does not contain a PDF component. The X invoice is therefore exclusively machine-readable and optimized for digital processes.
GLS offers both formats on request.