3 clear differences between Peppol Commerce and other WordPress plugins for Peppol invoicing
Peppol Commerce processes all invoice data locally on your own WordPress site, without sending any data externally. Other solutions also install a plugin, but that primarily acts as a bridge to an external platform. This article explains three major differences and answers frequently asked questions, so you can make an informed decision about invoicing through Peppol.
WordPress plugins, but still big differences
Data storage and processing
With PeppolCommerce, all billing functionality happens within your WordPress site. When a customer places an order in WooCommerce or FluentCart, the plugin automatically grabs the data – such as customer name, address, products, and VAT amount. It immediately creates a PDF invoice and a UBL file (the digital Peppol format), both of which remain securely in your own database. You decide on backups and storage, thus complying with the legal 10-year retention obligation for invoices.
Other solutions use a different data flow. You install such WordPress plugins in your implementation, but these only collect the order data and forward it to an external platform (often the provider’s online portal). There, the UBL invoice is generated and sent via Peppol. A PDF (if one is created at all) is also created on that external platform. After sending, you often have to download the invoices yourself from their portal to save them locally. This requires extra steps: data is sent out, processed there, and (partially) returned. Why would you choose this? For simple setups, it offers a quick start without much configuration on your own site, but you lose control over the entire chain.
Dependency and security
The PeppolCommerce WordPress plugin is completely self-contained: no passwords or connections to third parties are required. Security is handled by your own WordPress tools, such as SSL for encryption and plugins for extra protection. All billing information remains with you, so there are no third parties scrutinizing your account. This minimizes risks such as external service outages or changes to their terms and conditions.
Other solutions always involve an external link. The WordPress plugin sends order data to the provider’s platform, which requires additional communication—think API integration via the internet. Every transfer raises security questions: is the connection secure? Is data encrypted in transit? The provider often promises GDPR-compliant storage in Europe, but you’re dependent on their servers, uptime, and future price changes. Vendor lock-in is looming: switching requires reconfiguring everything. This is the option you choose if you want a turnkey service with built-in Peppol support, but accept that a third party will partially take over your invoicing process.
Choice of Peppol registration
With PeppolCommerce, you choose where to register with Peppol. This is a one-time process at a Peppol Access Point (AP)—for example, through your accountant or a public directory. The plugin uses this registration to send invoices, without any intervention from the plugin provider. You manage received invoices separately through your accounting software.
Other solutions often connect you to their own (or partner) Peppol network. Some require you to register with them, especially if you also want to receive invoices. This simplifies the initial setup – everything runs through one provider – but limits your freedom. If you want to switch APs later, you might have to modify or replace the plugin. This model suits companies looking for an all-in-one service, including receipt, but ties you to their ecosystem.
Detailed comparison
| Aspect | PeppolCommerce | Other solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Processing | Completely local in WordPress | Plugin sends data to external platform |
| PDF/UBL storage | Remains in your database | Being created on external portal; download it yourself |
| Peppol-registration | You choose your own AP | Often with provider or partner |
| Dependency | No external services | Dependent on third party |
| Security | Your own WordPress setup | Encrypted API + provider DPA |
| Receive Invoices | Via your accounting/AP | Sometimes included, sometimes not |
Some more frequently asked questions
Why should I choose an external solution if local processing is more secure?
Local processing with PeppolCommerce is more secure and easier because all your billing information – including customer names, addresses, and VAT – stays directly within your own WordPress, without sending it externally. You retain full control, avoid dependency on a third party and minimize risks such as outages or privacy issues with external servers.
Third-party solutions may seem appealing due to their quick setup or extras like dashboards, but they require you to upload order data to their platform. This introduces extra steps, potential delays, and the sharing of sensitive data. With PeppolCommerce, you install a single plugin and everything works autonomously: no additional API connections, no need to log in with others, and you immediately comply with data retention requirements through your own backups. Ideal if you prioritize privacy and independence.
What exactly happens to my data in the dataflow of other plugins?
- Order in WooCommerce
- Plugin collects info (customer, products)
- Data goes via a secure connection to an external platform
- Platform creates UBL/PDF and sends via Peppol
- You log in to their portal for downloads and proof of shipment.
Extra hops mean a greater chance of delays, but providers ensure Peppol compliance.
Do I need to change my Peppol registration when switching?
Not with PeppolCommerce – it works with any AP. Other solutions sometimes require their partner AP, which can require a change. Ask your accountant for advice on a smooth transition.
What about the 10-year retention obligation?
This always rests with you as a company. At PeppolCommerce, you archive via your site backups. Elsewhere, you download invoices from the portal – make sure you have your own storage to avoid risks, such as a bankrupt supplier.
