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7.6 Luxembourg Accounting Software Landscape (Sage BOB, Odoo, etc.)

Overview of Luxembourg Accounting Software​

Luxembourg businesses have several software options, each with different strengths and features. Understanding the landscape helps businesses choose the right solution.

Sage BOB​

Overview: Cloud-connected accounting software specifically designed for Belgian and Luxembourg markets.

Key Features:

  • ✅ Full PCN 2020 compliance
  • ✅ Excellent VAT handling (all 4 rates)
  • ✅ eCDF integration built-in
  • ✅ FAIA export capability
  • ✅ Multilingual (FR, DE, EN, NL)
  • ✅ Strong Luxembourg localization
  • ✅ Import/export via Excel/CSV
  • ✅ Bank reconciliation
  • ✅ Good customer support in Luxembourg

Best For:

  • Established SMEs needing full compliance
  • Businesses requiring strong Luxembourg support
  • Companies with complex VAT requirements
  • Businesses wanting cloud-based solution

Pricing:

  • Starting from €30-50/month
  • Varies by features and users
  • Annual plans available

Training:

  • House of Training offers courses
  • Online tutorials available
  • Local support network

Odoo (Luxembourg Localization)​

Overview: Open-source ERP with Luxembourg-specific modules and localizations.

Key Features:

  • ✅ Open-source core (free)
  • ✅ Luxembourg localization available
  • ✅ Highly customizable
  • ✅ Comprehensive ERP features
  • ✅ Good community support
  • ✅ Can be self-hosted or cloud
  • ✅ Multi-company support
  • ⚠️ Requires technical knowledge for setup

Best For:

  • Tech-savvy SMEs
  • Businesses needing full ERP functionality
  • Companies with IT resources
  • Businesses wanting customization

Pricing:

  • Free (community edition)
  • €24.90/user/month (cloud hosted)
  • Self-hosted: hosting costs only

Training:

  • Online documentation
  • Community forums
  • Professional training available

QuickBooks (with Luxembourg Setup)​

Overview: Popular international accounting software, requires manual Luxembourg configuration.

Key Features:

  • ✅ User-friendly interface
  • ✅ Good mobile apps
  • ✅ Strong reporting
  • ✅ Bank integration
  • ⚠️ Not specifically designed for Luxembourg
  • ⚠️ PCN compliance requires manual setup
  • ⚠️ Limited Luxembourg-specific features

Best For:

  • Small businesses with simple needs
  • International companies familiar with QuickBooks
  • Businesses willing to adapt software

Pricing:

  • €15-50/month depending on plan

Xero​

Overview: Cloud-based accounting software, popular internationally.

Key Features:

  • ✅ Modern, intuitive interface
  • ✅ Excellent bank reconciliation
  • ✅ Good mobile apps
  • ✅ Strong third-party integrations
  • ⚠️ Limited Luxembourg localization
  • ⚠️ PCN compliance requires setup
  • ⚠️ eCDF integration not built-in

Best For:

  • Small businesses with international operations
  • Tech-forward companies
  • Businesses prioritizing ease of use

Pricing:

  • €12-35/month depending on plan

Excel-Based Solutions​

Overview: Custom Excel templates or add-ins for accounting.

Key Features:

  • ✅ Low cost (or free)
  • ✅ Highly customizable
  • ✅ Familiar interface
  • ❌ Manual data entry
  • ❌ Error-prone
  • ❌ Limited automation
  • ❌ No built-in compliance features

Best For:

  • Very small businesses
  • Businesses with simple transactions
  • Companies with accounting expertise
  • Temporary or startup phase

Software Selection Criteria​

Essential Features:

  • PCN 2020 compliance
  • VAT management (4 rates)
  • eCDF integration
  • FAIA export capability
  • Multilingual support
  • Bank reconciliation

Important Features:

  • Payroll integration
  • Inventory management
  • Multi-currency support
  • Cloud vs. on-premise
  • Mobile access
  • Reporting and analytics
  • User support and training

Luxembourg-Specific Considerations:

  • eCDF integration (critical)
  • FAIA export (required)
  • PCN compliance (mandatory)
  • VAT rate tracking (essential)
  • Multilingual support (helpful)
  • Local support (valuable)

Implementation Considerations​

Planning:

  • Assess business needs
  • Evaluate software options
  • Plan implementation timeline
  • Allocate resources
  • Train staff

Data Migration:

  • Export from old system
  • Import into new system
  • Verify data accuracy
  • Test thoroughly

Training:

  • Software-specific training
  • PCN training
  • VAT procedures
  • Reporting training

Luxembourg Compliance Note​

When selecting accounting software in Luxembourg:

  • Verify PCN compliance
  • Test eCDF integration
  • Verify FAIA export capability
  • Check VAT rate handling
  • Ensure data export capabilities
  • Verify support availability
  • Check contract terms

Think It Through​

A Luxembourg SME needs to choose accounting software. What factors should they consider? How would you help them evaluate options?