ZUGFeRD or XRechnung? Open an example invoice.
A German customer asking for an e-invoice may want a readable PDF with data inside it, or an XML file their software can import. Ask for the format, buyer reference and delivery channel before you export.
Look inside a Factur-X invoice
Open the example PDF in a reader with an attachments panel. Select factur-x.xml to see the invoice data, or download the identical XML below.
INV-2026-0142
- From
- Morrow Studio GmbH
- Bill to
- Lumen Labs GmbH
- Brand design retainer
- €1,200.00
- Website support
- €300.00
- Subtotal
- €1,500.00
- VAT (19%)
- €285.00
- Total due
- €1,785.00
Created with the InvoiceBirds exporter. In the XML, search for DuePayableAmount to find the same total.
Which file did your customer ask for?
- ZUGFeRD / Factur-X
Choose this when the buyer accepts a hybrid invoice. The PDF/A-3 format carries a readable invoice and a structured Cross Industry Invoice (CII) XML attachment. A regular PDF or scan alone lacks that invoice data.
- XRechnung
German public buyers often request XRechnung. InvoiceBirds exports standalone CII XML with the XRechnung 3.0 profile identifier. Ask the buyer which version they accept and which buyer reference to enter, such as a Leitweg-ID.
- Peppol UBL
Choose Peppol UBL if the recipient asks for that XML format. Downloading the file saves a local copy. For delivery over Peppol, send it through your Peppol service provider using the recipient’s electronic address.
Export your own e-invoice
- In your workspace, set your EU business country and enter your tax number or VAT ID. Add the customer’s billing details and their requested buyer reference.
- Save the invoice, including your latest edits. In the builder’s export menu, choose Factur-X, XRechnung or Peppol UBL.
- Check the file against the profile and version your buyer accepts, then submit it through their chosen portal or provider.