How To Fix 6B016 - The end date lies before the start date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 6B - Real estate correspondence messages

• Message number: 016

• Message text: The end date lies before the start date

What causes this issue?

The end date lies before the start date.

System Response

Your entries will not be accepted.

How to fix this error?

Enter the start date and end date in such a way that the end date does
not lie before the start date.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 6B016 - The end date lies before the start date ?

  The SAP error message 6B016 ("The end date lies before the start date") typically occurs in scenarios where date ranges are being defined, such as in project management, scheduling, or when entering validity periods for master data. This error indicates that the end date you have entered is earlier than the start date, which is logically incorrect.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date Entry: The most common cause is simply entering the dates incorrectly. For example, entering a start date of January 10, 2023, and an end date of January 5, 2023.
  System Configuration: In some cases, the system configuration or business rules may enforce certain date constraints that lead to this error.
  Data Migration Issues: If data is being migrated from another system, incorrect date formats or values may lead to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Date Entries: Review the start and end dates you have entered. Ensure that the end date is on or after the start date.
  Correct Format: Ensure that the dates are in the correct format as expected by the SAP system (e.g., DD/MM/YYYY or MM/DD/YYYY depending on your locale settings).
  Validation Rules: If applicable, check any validation rules or configurations that might be affecting the date entries.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the expected date ranges for a specific transaction or module, consult the relevant SAP documentation or help files.
  User Training: If this error is common among users, consider providing training or guidelines on how to correctly enter date ranges.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error can occur in various transaction codes depending on the context (e.g., creating a project in CJ20N, maintaining master data in MM01, etc.).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Support: If the issue persists after checking the dates, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.
  
  By ensuring that the end date is always equal to or later than the start date, you can avoid encountering this error in the future.