How To Fix 5A052 - Preceding record will be delimited at end

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 5A - Basis Personnel Management

• Message number: 052

• Message text: Preceding record will be delimited at end

What causes this issue?

The preceding record will be delimited at the end.

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 5A052 - Preceding record will be delimited at end ?

  The SAP error message 5A052 ("Preceding record will be delimited at end") typically occurs during data processing in SAP, particularly when dealing with data imports or exports, such as in the context of IDocs, batch input sessions, or data uploads. This error indicates that there is an issue with the structure or format of the data being processed, specifically that the system has detected a record that is not properly terminated or delimited.
  Cause:
  
  Improper Record Formatting: The data being processed may not conform to the expected format, such as missing delimiters or incorrect record lengths.
  Data Truncation: The data might be truncated, meaning that the expected end of a record is not found, leading the system to assume that the record is incomplete.
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration settings for the data import/export process may not match the structure of the data being processed.
  Corrupted Data: The data file may be corrupted or contain unexpected characters that disrupt the expected format.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Data Format: Review the data file or input to ensure that it adheres to the expected format. Make sure that all records are properly delimited and that there are no missing or extra delimiters.
  Validate Record Lengths: Ensure that the lengths of the records match the expected lengths defined in the data structure. Adjust the data accordingly.
  Review Configuration Settings: Check the configuration settings for the data import/export process to ensure they align with the structure of the data being processed.
  Test with Sample Data: If possible, test the process with a smaller set of data that is known to be correctly formatted to isolate the issue.
  Use Data Validation Tools: Utilize any available data validation tools or scripts to check for inconsistencies or errors in the data file.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or support resources for specific guidelines related to the data format and structure for the process you are working with.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common problems.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that may help in troubleshooting, such as WE02 for IDoc monitoring or SM35 for batch input sessions.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to reach out to SAP support for further assistance, providing them with detailed information about the error and the context in which it occurs.