The world of invoicing is becoming increasingly digital, and e-invoicing via the Peppol network is the new standard. As a self-employed entrepreneur, this also affects you. No need to worry—it’s simpler than it sounds, especially if you use Dexxter. A key concept in this story is the GLN number. What exactly is it, and why do you need it? We explain it clearly and concisely.
What is a GLN number? The mailing address for your invoices
Think of a GLN number as the mailing address for your business documents. Just as you need a unique address to receive mail, you need a unique GLN number to correctly and automatically send and receive e-invoices via Peppol. Simply put, it is your unique digital address in a global network.
GLN stands for Global Location Number. It is a unique 13-digit code used worldwide to identify companies, specific departments, or even physical locations.
A large company may have a single company registration number but consist of many internal departments. Within the Peppol network, the GLN ensures that your invoice doesn’t just arrive at a company, but ends up on exactly the right digital desk.
The benefits of a GLN number at a glance
E-invoicing with Peppol and GLN offers several advantages:
- Fewer errors: Your invoice is guaranteed to reach the right person or department. No more disputes about invoices that “never arrived.”
- Faster payment: Because your invoice goes straight to the right place (for example, the accounting department), it is processed faster—meaning you get paid sooner.
- Automation: It enables fully automated invoice processing. This saves both you and the recipient a lot of manual work and time.
- Professionalism: Using a global standard like GLN shows that your business is ready for the digital future.
Imagine sending an invoice to a large company with multiple locations and departments. With a GLN number, the Peppol network knows exactly whether the invoice should go to the head office in Brussels or the logistics department in Antwerp—preventing delays and misunderstandings.
How do you get a GLN number?
Clear so far—but how do you get one? Fortunately, it’s often easier than you think. In many cases, you don’t even have to arrange it yourself.
Modern accounting software that supports Peppol takes care of this for you. In a tool like Dexxter, for example, the process is fully automated. As soon as you indicate in your account that you want to send and receive e-invoices via Peppol, a GLN number is automatically and free of charge created and linked to your account. You don’t need to do anything yourself.
The official organization that issues GLN numbers is GS1 Belgium. You can also apply directly through them, but for most self-employed professionals, going via the software provider (such as Dexxter) is the easiest and fastest option.
Ready for the future of e-invoicing
E-invoicing via Peppol is the way to efficient and error-free invoicing, and a GLN number is essential to make this work. It is the key to a smooth, automated, and fast invoicing process. With e-invoicing via Dexxter, your administration is fully ready for the future of invoicing.
