CrateAPI vs InvoiceXML
Both are format-layer e-invoicing APIs: they generate, validate and convert EN 16931 invoices (Factur-X, UBL, CII, XRechnung, Peppol) without transmitting them. Here is how they differ — public facts only, checked 9 August 2026, both sides shown honestly.
| CrateAPI | InvoiceXML | |
|---|---|---|
| Entry price | $0 sandbox forever · paid from $29/mo | €7/mo, billed annually |
| REST API access | every tier, including free | not on Starter — from Business (€23/mo) |
| Free tier | unlimited validation, forever | none — 30-day trial |
| Invoice quotas | 500 / 2,500 / 10,000 per month | 150 / 1,000 / 5,000 per month |
| Cost per invoice (full quota) | $0.02–0.06 | €0.01–0.05 |
| French BR-FR / AFNOR profile | yes — 61 rules validated & documented | not advertised |
| Error documentation | 1,936 pages, every rule, 4 languages | docs site |
| Billing | monthly, or annual −20% | annual billing |
| Formats | UBL, CII, Factur-X, XRechnung, Peppol, PDF/A-3 | UBL, CII, Factur-X, ZUGFeRD, XRechnung, Peppol, PDF/A-3 |
| Data retention | zero — processed in memory | zero — processed in memory |
Where InvoiceXML is a fine choice
If you invoice at a steady, high volume, are comfortable with annual billing, do not need API access on the cheapest tier and do not need the French BR-FR profile — their cost per invoice at full quota use is lower than ours. That is the honest math.
Where CrateAPI is the better fit
If you want an API from the first euro (including the free sandbox), a free validator forever instead of a 30-day trial, monthly billing with no annual lock-in, the French BR-FR/AFNOR profile for the September 2026 mandate, and every validation error documented on its own page in 4 languages.
Public pricing and published features as of 9 August 2026 (sources: invoicexml.com and this site). All trademarks belong to their owners; we are not affiliated with InvoiceXML. Spotted an inaccuracy? contact@crateapi.com — we correct promptly.