What is UBL format?

Do you know what UBL is? The implementation of electronic invoicing is a big step forward. Since 2015 the electronic invoice is mandatory when exchanging documents with the administration, and it will be for all companies soon. Therefore, the European Union is working on the implementation of UBL format, which is becoming more important all over the world.

What is the UBL format?

UBL (Universal Business Language) format’s purpose is to simplify the automation of financial information exchange through the use of XML language. This language is widely used today, and its standardization simplifies data and information management. The UBL format enables companies around the world to exchange electronic documents. This exchange takes place in the same language, adapted to the fiscal needs of each receiving country.

This format is used to exchange electronic invoices and other electronic documents through Peppol, an international network used in Europe. It has expanded to countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore and the United States.

Here you will find more information about what Peppol is.

UBL file format is an XML

XML format (Extensible Markup Language) is a text format where data or information is represented in a structured way.

As mentioned above, the UBL format is a specific type of XML. Although it is possible to generate different types of electronic documents in UBL format, the electronic invoice is the most common document.

How many languages are there to create an electronic invoice?

Currently, there are many languages for creating and sending electronic invoices. In the European Union, there is a desire to promote a single electronic invoice format, since this simplifies the current invoicing system among all countries.

In general, XML is the most widespread and standardized format. Depending on the country, we find differents kinds of UBL, such as Facturae or EDIFACT (Spain), FatturaPa (Italy), Peppol BIS (Belgium), etc.

What is expected from Peppol and UBL invoice?

In addition to facilitating and simplifying procedures and management, the standardized implementation of the UBL system reduces costs and avoids problems. All organizations, public or private, can communicate with each other using the same language and data structure. In other words, any invoice sent to public administrations throughout Europe has common data, which homogenizes its content and makes it easy to interpret, minimizing the risk of errors and time spent on its management.

This format is already in use in many European countries, such as Sweden, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, etc. Everything points to the fact that more and more countries around the world will make electronic invoicing mandatory for companies that want to invoice the administration. This is the reason why they are choosing UBL as the standard format for their electronic invoices. As a consequence, Europe is moving towards a common language and format in B2G communications for all EU countries and those who want to follow their steps.

Generate electronic invoices in UBL format with B2Brouter

B2Brouter is an online solution specialized i electronic document exchange. It allows you to create and send your electronic invoices in UBL format easily and free of charge, since it is a Peppol Certified Access Point. Do not worry about the technical aspects, B2Brouter will take care of that.

Sign up and start managing all your electronic invoices with all your costumers and suppliers using all types of formats; UBL, Facturae, PDF, XRechnung, etc.