E-invoicing vs Online invoicing
It is important to note that E-invoicing is not the same as online invoicing.
Online invoicing, in most current business scenarios, refers to either a scanned copy of the invoice or a PDF file sent to the recipient organisation via email. The process relies on manual data entry as your recipient will have to re-enter the details of the invoice into his own accounting system (e.g. accounts payable). Similarly, you may be receiving many online invoices in the form of PDFs – you will also need to have someone manually input the invoice details or scan the pages of invoices into your system.
E-invoicing on the other hand is an invoice created digitally in a supplier’s financial system, transmitted electronically through the PEPPOL network to the recipient (buyer) where it is processed automatically without any human intervention. For example, E-invoices received in a PEPPOL-ready accounting solution can appear as draft bills automatically without any manual data entry.