From a business perspective, the ideal solution is having a centralized reception point (transfer point) where all formats and documents can be processed seamlessly, without requiring differentiation in the handling of invoice formats or attachments. This could be an email inbox or any other communication network.

BLU DELTA Doesn’t Differentiate Between Formats.

No matter the format—XRechnung, ZUGFeRD, or related documents—BLU DELTA processes it all. Businesses shouldn’t have to deal with managing technical details but instead rely on solutions that cover the entire process. With BLU DELTA, you no longer need to worry about formats or complex processes. You can rest assured that every document will be:

• Recognized
• Classified
• Integrated
• Processed

The E-Invoicing Mandate: More Than Just a Format Change Since

Since November 2023, the anticipated ratification of the E-Invoicing mandate by the German Federal Council has been driving intense preparation for a significant change across the German business landscape. Starting January 2025, electronic invoicing will initially become mandatory for receiving invoices in the B2B sector and later for sending them, forcing many companies to act.

The key challenge is not just selecting the correct format—be it XRechnung or ZUGFeRD—but automating entire processes. All companies currently preparing for this shift, and those we've spoken to this year about e-invoicing, confirm this.

Beyond Choosing the Right Forma

A crucial aspect of introducing e-invoicing is selecting the appropriate format. Companies must ensure compliance with regulatory standards like EN 16931 while remaining flexible enough to handle various formats required for international business. While many businesses lean towards XRechnung or ZUGFeRD, other options also exist. It's essential to adapt ERP and accounting systems to process all formats accurately.

A Profound Change in Processes

E-invoicing affects far more than just invoice formats. Many companies are only beginning to realize how deeply e-invoicing impacts their internal processes. From reviewing existing ERP systems to analyzing entire invoicing workflows and integrating automated solutions, adapting to the new requirements poses a significant challenge.

The Role of Supporting Documents

One aspect gaining more attention is the importance of supplementary documents. While processing e-invoices is vital, automating and digitizing related documents, such as delivery notes, service confirmations, damage reports, purchase orders, or even contracts, is becoming increasingly critical. These documents enable a fully digital and transparent representation of the supply chain. Companies specializing in invoice processing should handle not only e-invoices but also all accompanying documents

The shift to e-invoicing is not just an obligation or challenge; it’s also an opportunity for businesses. Early adopters who take the necessary steps and adjust their systems can reap long-term benefits from optimized processes and increased efficiency. Automating invoice-based workflows minimizes errors while enhancing transparency and traceability in accounting—a crucial factor for compliance and internal controls. Dark posting—a long-pursued goal—is no longer a buzzword but a practical reality.

AI as a Key Component for Automated Dark Posting

To unlock the full potential of XRechnung, intelligent systems are required to understand the data, its relationships, and the associated processes. Artificial intelligence, large language models, and AI agents are foundational to meeting these new challenges. The BLU DELTA service integrates these innovative technologies, embedding the unique context of each company.

The BLU DELTA AI comprehends documents and translates this understanding into automated process steps in alignment with company-specific requirements.

Conclusion: More Than Just Invoice Formats

The introduction of e-invoicing is far more than a technical challenge. It provides an opportunity for fundamental process improvements within companies. Today, the promise "We support all formats" extends beyond the technical processing of XRechnung or ZUGFeRD to include all relevant and supplementary documents.

Companies that tackle this transition early and strategically will secure long-term competitive advantages and set the stage for an efficient, automated future in financial and administrative processes.