What it means
When the seller and the buyer are both in Germany, the seller's address must include the post code (BT-38). A field that is empty or holds only spaces counts as missing.
Why it matters
The address is part of identifying who issued the invoice. Without the post code the address is incomplete and the invoice is rejected.
How to fix it
In your invoicing software, open your company details and check the post code field in your address. German post codes have five digits, for example 10115. Enter it in its own field, separate from the city, then save and export the invoice again.
The rule as published
Read the rule on the publisher's site
Business terms: BT-38
Where this rule applies
| Rule set | Version |
|---|---|
| Peppol BIS Billing 3.0 (invoice) | 2026.5 |
| Peppol BIS Billing 3.0 (credit note) | 2026.5 |
Check your file
Drop your e-invoice to see whether DE-R-004 still fails, and which other rules do.
Related rules
- BR-DE-4 Seller postcode is required
- BR-RO-L0201 Seller post code must be 20 characters or fewer
- IS-R-003 Icelandic sellers must give a street name and post code
- IT-R-004 Italian sellers must give the post code in their address
- DE-R-005 A seller contact name is required between German parties
- DE-R-006 A seller phone number is required between German parties