XML interface for machine-readable invoices from ZEP
Create invoices directly from ZEP in ZUGFeRD or XRechnung format – fully machine-readable, standards-compliant, and ready for automated receipt by your customer. The XML interface is part of the ZEP Invoicing module and requires no additional add-on.
More than 3,000 companies rely on ZEP
Benefits of the XML interface
Invoices that not only people can read – but systems too.
ZUGFeRD – XML embedded in the PDF
- Invoices are output as PDF/A with an embedded ZUGFeRD XML file
- Supports all current ZUGFeRD versions from 2.0.1 to 2.3.2
- Programs like Adobe can open the PDF and view the embedded XML directly
XRechnung – for public-sector clients
- Invoices are created as XML files in XRechnung format, complemented by a PDF for visualization
- Supports all common XRechnung versions up to 3.0.1
- Leitweg ID, order and purchase order numbers, and project references are transferred in a standards-compliant way
Individually configurable per customer
- The desired invoice format is stored directly on the customer in ZEP
- For customers with ZUGFeRD or XRechnung, the correct format is used automatically
- Multiple customers can be switched to a format at once via bulk editing
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How to configure the XML interface
Set up XML invoice formats in ZEP
The XML interface is part of the Invoicing module – no separate setup is required. First, store your company data under Administration > My Company, as it is needed as the invoice sender in ZUGFeRD and XRechnung. Then activate the desired format directly for each customer under Customer > Addresses.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions and answers about the ZEP XML interface.
Who is the XML interface in ZEP suitable for?
The XML interface is suitable for service and consulting companies that invoice public-sector clients or large customers with automated incoming invoice processes. Anyone who needs to deliver XRechnung or ZUGFeRD can do so directly from ZEP – without detours via external tools or manual conversions.
Which mandatory details do I need for ZUGFeRD and XRechnung invoices in ZEP?
For ZUGFeRD, you need complete company data including bank details and a country code for the customer. For XRechnung, the customer's Leitweg ID and project-related details such as purchase order and order numbers are also relevant. All mandatory fields can be stored directly in the master data of customer and project in ZEP.
Do I need an additional module for the XML interface in ZEP?
No. The XML interface is part of the ZEP Invoicing module and requires no separate add-on. The only requirements are that your company data is fully stored in ZEP and the desired format is activated for the respective customer.
What is the difference between ZUGFeRD and XRechnung?
ZUGFeRD combines a visual PDF with an embedded XML file – the document is readable by both people and systems. XRechnung, on the other hand, is a pure XML format without a visual PDF and is mainly required by public-sector clients in Germany. For XRechnung, ZEP additionally creates a PDF based on your letterhead for manual viewing.
Which machine-readable invoice formats does ZEP support?
ZEP supports the creation of invoices in ZUGFeRD format (versions 2.0.1 to 2.3.2) and in XRechnung format (versions 2.1 to 3.0.1). The Swiss QR Code is also supported for invoices to customers in Switzerland. The desired format is stored individually per customer in ZEP.
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