:quality(80))
From 1 January 2026, e-invoicing will become mandatory for all VAT-registered businesses in Belgium. To ensure uniformity and compliance, the Belgian government has designated Peppol as the preferred network for the exchange of structured digital invoices.
While it is technically possible to use separate providers for sending and receiving e-invoices via Peppol, this often leads to inefficiencies. In this article, we explain why opting for a single Peppol Access Point is not only simpler but also more cost-effective and reliable.
What is Peppol?
Peppol is a secure, standardised network that allows companies and public sector organisations to exchange electronic documents, such as invoices, in a structured format.
You can think of it much like a mobile network. To make calls, you need both a phone and a network provider. Likewise, to use Peppol, your business must connect through a certified Access Point provider.
Once connected, your company is assigned a Peppol Participant ID (usually shortened to just Peppol ID), often based on your VAT number. This unique identifier allows you to be found within the global Peppol Directory, the network’s searchable database of registered participants (managed by the OpenPeppol Association).
Should you use one or two providers?
While the Peppol framework allows businesses to choose different providers for sending and receiving documents, in practice, splitting responsibilities often complicates things unnecessarily.
Here’s why it makes sense to keep your e-invoicing under one roof:
1. Improved tracking with delivery confirmations
When sending invoices, it’s crucial to also receive their delivery confirmations. These digital receipts are known as Invoice Message Responses (IMRs), and they confirm whether your invoices were received and processed, similar to the “read” receipts you get in messaging apps.
However, only your receiving provider can officially register you on the Peppol network to receive any type of message. If you’re using a separate provider for sending, that provider may not be able to receive IMRs, which means you could miss crucial feedback.
2. Less complexity, fewer mistakes
Working with two providers usually means managing two technical integrations, two sets of credentials, two support teams, and possibly conflicting processes. This can lead to delays when issues arise, especially if providers pass the blame between them.
Choosing a single Access Point streamlines support, ensures faster issue resolution, and reduces the risk of configuration errors or compliance gaps.
3. Lower costs thanks to higher volumes
Using a single provider for both sending and receiving increases the number of transactions you process through that provider. Many Access Points offer volume-based pricing, so consolidating all transactions under a single contract can lead to significant cost savings.
Get ready for Belgium’s 2026 e-invoicing mandate
As the deadline for mandatory B2B e-invoicing in Belgium approaches, it’s important to make strategic choices that support long-term efficiency and compliance. While Belgium is a key early adopter, this trend is rapidly expanding across Europe and beyond, with many other countries set to implement similar mandates in due course.
The Peppol network, flexible by design, offers a robust framework for this global shift, and businesses will benefit most from a single, reliable provider who can manage both outbound and inbound invoices, ensuring readiness for current and future regulations worldwide.
Need a trusted Peppol partner?
Banqup is a certified Peppol Access Point provider. We make the switch to e-invoicing easy by handling your registration, setup, integration, and ongoing support, ensuring your business is fully prepared for the future of invoicing.
In summary:
Mandates for e-invoicing are being implemented across various regions. With the Belgian mandate only 3 months away, all VAT-registered businesses in Belgium will be required to adopt e-invoicing from 1 January 2026.
Peppol is a widely adopted network for the secure and standardised exchange of invoices.
Using a single Access Point for e-invoicing operations can lead to reduced costs, simplified tracking and fewer technical complexities.
Don't wait until the last minute to prepare for the Belgian mandate and the evolving e-invoicing landscape across Europe and beyond. Contact us today to ensure your business is fully compliant with all existing and future mandates, whether Peppol-based or not.