How To Fix 06173 - Validity period start date same as validity period end date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 06 -

• Message number: 173

• Message text: Validity period start date same as validity period end date

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 06173 - Validity period start date same as validity period end date ?

  The SAP error message 06173, which states "Validity period start date same as validity period end date," typically occurs when you are trying to create or modify a record (such as a pricing condition, master data, or other time-dependent data) that has a validity period where the start date and end date are the same. This situation is not valid because a validity period must have a distinct start and end date to define a range of time during which the record is applicable.
  Cause:
  
  Data Entry Error: The most common cause is a simple data entry mistake where the user inadvertently enters the same date for both the start and end of the validity period.
  System Configuration: In some cases, the system configuration or custom logic may inadvertently set the same date for both fields.
  Data Migration Issues: If data is being migrated from another system or imported in bulk, the data may not have been validated properly, leading to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Dates: Review the validity period dates you have entered. Ensure that the start date is earlier than the end date. Adjust the dates accordingly.
  Data Validation: Implement validation checks in your data entry process to prevent the same date from being entered for both fields.
  Review Configuration: If this error occurs frequently, review the configuration settings or custom logic in your SAP system to ensure that it is not automatically setting the same date for both fields.
  Data Migration Review: If the error arises during data migration, check the source data for inconsistencies and correct them before importing into SAP.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on where you encounter this error, you may be using various transaction codes (e.g., ME11 for creating purchasing info records, VK11 for creating pricing conditions, etc.).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation for the specific module you are working with to understand how validity periods are handled and any specific requirements for date entries.
  
  By ensuring that the start and end dates are distinct, you should be able to resolve the error and proceed with your task in SAP.