How To Fix 5P018 - Offset or length entry exceeds the field length

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 5P - Error Messages for Schema, Pers.Calc.Rule and Feature Checks

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Offset or length entry exceeds the field length

What causes this issue?

A decision operation error has occurred. This operation moves a value
into the variable key. If you want to move only part of this value,
specify it using the operations VAOFF and VALEN. However, you have
selected a part which it not within the value's field length.

How to fix this error?

Read the documentation on the decision operation and change the values
of operations VAOFFF and VALEN accordingly.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 5P018 - Offset or length entry exceeds the field length ?

  The SAP error message 5P018 ("Offset or length entry exceeds the field length") typically occurs when there is an issue with the data being processed in a program or transaction. This error indicates that the specified offset or length for a field in a data structure exceeds the defined length of that field. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, potential solutions, and related information:
  Cause:
  
  Data Structure Mismatch: The program is trying to access a part of a data structure (like a table or a field) that is beyond its defined limits. This can happen if the offset or length specified in the code is greater than the actual size of the field.
  Incorrect Data Mapping: If data is being transferred between different systems or modules, incorrect mapping of fields can lead to this error.
  Program Logic Errors: There may be a logical error in the ABAP code where the calculations for offsets and lengths are not correctly defined.
  Changes in Data Structure: If there have been recent changes to the data structure (like adding or removing fields), the existing code may not be updated accordingly.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Data Definitions: Review the data structure definitions in the ABAP program or the relevant transaction. Ensure that the offsets and lengths specified in the code do not exceed the defined lengths of the fields.
  Debugging: Use the ABAP debugger to step through the code and identify where the error occurs. Check the values of the offset and length variables at runtime.
  Review Data Mapping: If data is being transferred from one system to another, ensure that the mapping of fields is correct and that the lengths match.
  Update Code: If the data structure has changed, update the ABAP code to reflect the new definitions. Ensure that any calculations for offsets and lengths are adjusted accordingly.
  Consult Documentation: Check SAP notes or documentation related to the specific transaction or program to see if there are known issues or updates that address this error.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error or provide guidance on similar issues.
  ABAP Documentation: Review ABAP programming guidelines and best practices to avoid similar issues in the future.
  Testing: After making changes, thoroughly test the program or transaction to ensure that the error is resolved and that no new issues have been introduced.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP support or consulting with an experienced ABAP developer for further assistance.