Learn how Unite supports your transition to electronic invoicing (e-invoice) in accordance with EU regulations. Discover everything about formats, transmission methods and how to get started—whether you are a business or a public institution.
What is an e-invoice?
An e-invoice is a digital document that contains the same content and legal effects as a conventional paper invoice. Unlike PDF files, e-invoices are machine-readable and follow standardised formats, enabling automated import and processing in financial systems.
Abbreviation for “Central User Guide of the Forum Electronic Invoice Germany”: A PDF document with a machine-readable XML attachment (CII Cross Industry Invoice).
UBL/XRechnung
Abbreviation for “Universal Business Language”: A machine-readable data set in XML format.
If you would like to receive e-invoices in a format other than ZUGFeRD, please contact your Unite representative.
Transmission methods
Unite supports two transmission methods:
Email: ZUGFeRD/XML attachments
Peppol Network: Secure, standardised delivery (further information under https://peppol.org/)
Requirements for receiving e-invoices
To receive e-invoices, your organisation must:
Be able to receive XML attachments via email, or
Be registered in the Peppol network with a valid VAT ID or GLN
If multiple entities place orders through your account/customer number, this may complicate delivery and may require review by Unite.
E-invoices for public authorities (B2G)
Since November 2020, e-invoicing is mandatory for public authorities. Unite supports this via the web service using Peppol from the Federal ZRE (‘Zentrale Rechnungseingangsplattform des Bundes’). Only e-invoices in the current version of the ‘XRechnung’ (UBL) standard can be transmitted here.
To enable this:
Go to your account profile and click on ‘Settings’.
