Key Takeaways
• CATAMA is a cloud-based, comprehensive solution for automotive businesses with automated invoicing
. • Saves up to 70% on administrative tasks through digital process optimization [4] • Three main packages available: Professional (€99), Enterprise (€139), and Unlimited (€499) per month [1] • E-invoicing ready with XRechnung format and ZUGFeRD standard for 2027 compliance [4] • DATEV interface for seamless accounting integration
• Real-time planning with cloud synchronization for all employees
• Mobile vehicle data capture using OCR technology and vehicle registration scanner
CATAMA Software is the #1 cloud-based automotive invoicing program in Germany, enabling workshops and car dealerships to fully digitize their business processes. The software combines automated invoicing, workshop planning, customer management, and accounting in a single platform, reducing administrative effort by up to 70% [4].
What makes CATAMA the ideal automotive invoicing program?
CATAMA has established itself as the ideal automotive invoicing program because it was specifically developed for the needs of the automotive industry. The software solves the main problem for many workshops: time-consuming paper management and manual invoice creation.
A workshop manager from Hamburg reported that he invoicing time from 20 minutes to 2 minutes [4]. This drastic time saving is achieved through:
Automated core processes:
• Digital order entry with QR code scanner
• Automatic spare parts pricing through Stakis/Stahlgruber integration [5] • Pre-made invoice templates for standard services
• Intelligent vehicle data recognition via OCR
Industry-specific features:
• HSN/TSN lookup for precise vehicle identification
• Tire management with storage location tracking
• TÜV/AU appointment management
• Warranty and guarantee tracking
The cloud-based architecture enables access from any device and location, which is particularly crucial for businesses with multiple branches.
How does automatic invoice creation work in CATAMA?
Automated invoice generation is the core of CATAMA and works through the intelligent linking of all business processes. As soon as an order is created, the system automatically collects all relevant data.
The 4-step process:
- Vehicle and customer registration: OCR scanner automatically reads vehicle registration documents and creates customer profiles.
- Order entry: Working hours are recorded via QR code, spare parts are automatically taken from catalogs.
- Price calculation: Current prices are retrieved from suppliers in real time.
- Invoice generation: A complete invoice is automatically generated with all mandatory information.
Intelligent data linking:
• Customer master data is automatically loaded for follow-up orders
• Vehicle history shows previous repairs and maintenance
• “Next Service” function automatically schedules the next appointment [3]
The software supports various types of invoices: standard invoices, differential taxation for used cars, small amount invoices and since 2026 also e-invoices in XRechnung format [4].
Error reduction through automation:
• Automatic VAT calculation depending on customer type (B2B/B2C)
• Mandatory field validation prevents incomplete invoices
• Duplicate detection in customer data
Choose CATAMA Professional if you run a small to medium-sized workshop (up to 10 employees). For larger businesses with time tracking and e-commerce, Enterprise is the better choice.
What CATAMA packages are available and how much do they cost?
CATAMA offers three main packages that are tailored to different farm sizes and requirements [1]:
CATAMA Professional – €99/month:
• Workshop planning and appointment management
• Ordering system with supplier interfaces
• Internal invoicing
• DAT interface for vehicle data
• Basic customer management
CATAMA Enterprise – €139/month:
• All professional features
• Time tracking with QR code system
• Advanced tire management
• Advanced reporting functions
CATAMA Unlimited – €499/month:
• Tailor-made cloud solutions
• Unlimited users
• Dedicated IT contact person
• Premium support with guaranteed response times
• Individual customizations
Additional cost factors:
• Setup and training: One-time fee of €200-500 depending on the package
• Additional users: From €15/month (Professional/Enterprise)
• Extended interfaces: €50-100/month per interface
The various CATAMA packages can be tested free of charge for 30 days. Switching between packages is possible at any time.
Decision-making aid:
Choose Professional for businesses with up to 5 employees and no complex time tracking. Enterprise is suitable for growing workshops with 5-20 employees. Unlimited is ideal for chain stores or companies with specific requirements.
What interfaces and integrations does CATAMA offer?
CATAMA's strength lies in its seamless integration with industry-standard systems and suppliers. This networking eliminates media breaks and significantly reduces manual data entry.
Supplier interfaces:
• Stakis 4.0: Direct access to spare parts catalogs with current prices [5] • Stahlgruber: Automatic order processing and price updates
• Mercedes WebParts: Original parts integration for Mercedes workshops
• Partslink24: Universal spare parts platform
Accounting integration:
• DATEV interface: Automatic export of all accounting data [5] • Lexware compatibility: For smaller businesses
• ELSTER connection: Direct transmission of VAT returns
Diagnostic and service tools:
• WMKAT: Repair manuals and labor times
• Repdoc: Damage calculations and repair costs
• DAT: Vehicle data and valuations
The Stakis 4.0 integration is particularly valuable: mechanics can search for spare parts, compare prices and order directly from within the job, without having to switch systems.
API functionality (Enterprise/Unlimited):
• REST API for custom developments
• Webhook integration for real-time updates
• E-commerce interfaces for online shops
Mobile Integration:
• iOS/Android apps for field service
• QR code scanner for time tracking
• Offline functionality for test drives
Choose Enterprise or Unlimited if you require extensive integrations. Professional offers the most important standard interfaces.
How secure is data in the CATAMA Cloud?
Data security is critical for automotive businesses, as they manage sensitive customer data, vehicle information, and business data. CATAMA fully complies with German and European data protection standards.
GDPR compliance:
• Full documentation of all data processing
• Automatic deletion periods for customer data
• Consent management for marketing communications
• Right of access tools for customer inquiries [4]
Technical security measures:
• 256-bit SSL encryption for all data transmissions
• ISO 27001-certified German data centers
• Daily automatic backups with 30-day retention
• Two-factor authentication for administrator access
Audit-proof archiving:
• Unalterable storage of all documents [4] • 10-year archiving for tax-relevant documents
• Complete change history (who, what, when)
• Automatic versioning of document changes
The cloud infrastructure runs exclusively in German data centers, which means stricter German data protection laws apply.
Disaster Recovery:
• 99.9% Availability Guarantee
• Redundant Server Locations
• Automatic Failover in Case of Failures
• Recovery Time Objective (RTO): < 4 hours
Access control:
• Role-based user rights
• IP whitelist for critical functions
• Session timeout after inactivity
• Audit logs for all system accesses
For businesses with the highest security requirements, CATAMA Unlimited offers additional security features such as dedicated server instances and advanced monitoring tools.
What are the latest features in CATAMA 2026?
Release v26-4 from January 2026 brought significant improvements for daily workshop operations [2]. CATAMA continuously invests in further development based on user feedback.
Global QR/Barcode Scanner:
• System-wide scanning functionality for all modules
• Automatic recognition of spare part barcodes
• Inventory support via scan-to-count
• Integration with mobile apps
Extended invoice fields:
• Workshop stay duration: Automatic calculation of the dwell time
• Header text adjustments: Individual invoice texts per customer
• Additional cost centers: More detailed cost breakdown
Vehicle status “Reversal”:
• Special handling of cancelled orders [2] • Automatic inventory adjustment for returns
• Traceable documentation for warranty claims
Calendar improvements:
• Drag-and-drop appointment rescheduling
• Multi-week planning view
• Automatic conflict detection for double bookings
CRM enhancements:
• Mileage display in customer history [2] • Automatic service reminders based on mileage
• Enhanced search functions in customer database
The workshop planner functions have also been revised: The “Next Service” function can now be entered directly when creating the invoice, which greatly simplifies scheduling [3].
Upcoming features in 2026:
• AI-based price forecasts for spare parts
• Enhanced e-invoicing capabilities for B2B customers
• Integration with electric vehicle diagnostic systems
• Improved mobile app with offline synchronization
Updates are installed automatically without interrupting ongoing operations. All new features are included in existing packages.
How does CATAMA support the mandatory e-invoicing requirement in 2027?
From 2027, e-invoicing will become mandatory for B2B transactions in Germany. CATAMA is already preparing automotive businesses for this requirement and offers complete compliance support [4].
XRechnung and ZUGFeRD standard:
• Automatic generation of structured e-invoices
• XML format according to the German XRechnung specification
• PDF/A-3 hybrid with embedded structural data
• Automatic validation before sending
Compliance features:
• Routing ID management for government invoices
• Automatic validation of mandatory fields
• Audit-proof archiving of all e-invoices [4] • Verifiable delivery and confirmation of receipt
E -invoicing integration works seamlessly with existing workflows. Workshops can create paper and e-invoices in parallel until the complete transition is finished.
Transitional arrangement 2027-2028:
• Paper invoices remain permitted for small businesses
• Gradual introduction depending on customer size
• CATAMA supports both formats in parallel
Technical implementation:
• PEPPOL network connection for European exchange
• AS4 protocol for secure data transmission
• Integration into existing DATEV workflows
Cost savings through e-invoicing:
• Elimination of postage and paper costs (approx. €2-5 per invoice)
• Reduced processing time by 60-80%
• Faster payment receipt (on average 5 days earlier)
• Automatic dunning integration
CATAMA customers receive e-invoicing functionality at no extra charge in all packages. Training and support for the transition are included in the service.
FAQ
Can CATAMA be integrated with existing systems?
Yes, CATAMA offers numerous standard interfaces to common systems such as DATEV, Stakis, Stahlgruber, and Mercedes WebParts. Custom API integrations are possible with Enterprise/Unlimited.
How long does the implementation of CATAMA take?
Initial setup takes 1-3 days. Data migration from legacy systems requires an additional 3-5 days. Full production readiness is usually achieved after 1-2 weeks.
What training does CATAMA offer?
Free online training for all enterprise users and comprehensive documentation.
Can I switch between CATAMA packages?
Yes, upgrades and downgrades are possible at any time at the end of the next month. All data is retained; only the range of functions changes.
How is support billed?
Professional/Enterprise: Email support is free, telephone support is free subject to availability. Unlimited: Dedicated support hotline and guaranteed response times included.
How does time tracking work?
QR code-based recording via mobile phone or tablet. Automatic assignment to jobs, break management, and overtime calculation (from Enterprise onwards).
Which payment methods are accepted?
SEPA direct debit (preferred), bank transfer, and credit card. Annual prepayment with a 10% discount is possible.
Summary
CATAMA Software will establish itself as the leading automotive invoicing software in Germany by 2026 thanks to its unique combination of user-friendliness, industry specialization, and technological innovation. The up to 70% time savings on administrative tasks make it an indispensable investment for modern workshops [4].
The three available packages cover all business sizes: Professional (€99) for smaller workshops, Enterprise (€139) for growing businesses, and Unlimited (€499) for chain stores [1]. The e-invoicing readiness for the 2027 compliance requirements is particularly valuable.
Next steps for interested parties:
- your free 30-day trial via CATAMA registration.
- a needs analysis with the CATAMA team
- data migration from existing systems
- employee training for optimal use
The investment typically pays for itself within 3-6 months through saved working time and improved process efficiency. With continuous development and German support, CATAMA is the future-proof choice for digital workshop management.
References
[1] Products – https://www.catama-software.de/produkte/
[2] Release Update V26 4 – https://www.catama-software.de/features/v26-4/release-update-v26-4/
[3] The Workshop Planner for Automotive Workshops: Efficient Workshop Planning in 2026 – https://www.catama-software.de/features/der-werkstattplaner-fuer-kfz-werkstaetten-effiziente-werkstattplanung-im-jahr-2026/
[4] The #1 Enterprise Software for Automotive Workshops and Retailers: Digitalization for Maximum Efficiency – https://www.catama-software.de/ratgeber/die-1-enterprise-software-fuer-kfz-werkstatt-und-handel-digitalisierung-fuer-maximale-effizienz/
[5] Transparent Communication in the Automotive Workshop with Digital Order Documentation: Building Customer Trust – https://www.catama-software.de/ratgeber/transparente-kommunikation-in-der-kfz-werkstatt-mit-digitaler-auftragsdokumentation-vertrauen-beim-kunden-aufbauen/
