Comparison

Peppol vs PDF/e-mail: Why PDF Is No Longer Enough

Sending an invoice as a PDF by email may seem sufficient. But here’s why this method is outdated — and how Peppol provides a truly modern solution.

P

Peppol Box

June 18, 2025

5 min de lecture
Comparison between PDF invoice and Peppol

PDF: Simple but Limited

Sending a PDF invoice by email is still the norm for many SMEs. It’s easy and fast — but also very limited and risky:

  • High risk of input errors (VAT, amount, duplicates...)
  • No traceability (no proof of delivery or opening)
  • Non-compliant with European standards
  • Manual processing is time-consuming for clients

A PDF is a visual file. It lacks the structured data required for accounting automation.

Peppol: A Smart Invoice

An invoice sent via Peppol is readable by software. It includes all key data: VAT, lines, quantities, legal mentions, etc. — all in a standardized (UBL) format.

  • Automatic reading
  • No re-entry
  • Acknowledgment of receipt
  • Secure, certified and traceable

It's the digital equivalent of a registered letter — 100% reliable and state-recognized.

Security and Compliance

Unlike emails (which can be intercepted or forged), Peppol uses a closed, secure network with encryption and certification.

In the event of a tax audit, a Peppol invoice is undeniably authentic.

What About Your Clients?

Receiving an invoice via Peppol means:

  • Less time wasted
  • Fewer processing errors
  • A better image for your business

Even if your clients still receive invoices by email or portal, Peppol improves the overall reliability of the process.

🟰 Comparison Table

Criteria PDF / Email Peppol
Traceability ❌ None ✅ Complete
Automation ❌ Manual entry ✅ 100% automatic
Security ⚠️ Average 🛡️ High
Compliance ❌ Not guaranteed ✅ Certified
Time saving ⏳ Limited ⚡ Maximum

Conclusion

Emailing PDFs is a thing of the past. With the 2026 obligations, Peppol is becoming the new legal and professional standard for invoicing.

With Peppol Box, the transition is smooth and seamless: your suppliers send, you receive. It’s that easy.