How To Fix 88656 - Length of material number (&1) exceeds declaration key (&2)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 88 - REA Processing

• Message number: 656

• Message text: Length of material number (&1) exceeds declaration key (&2)

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 88656 - Length of material number (&1) exceeds declaration key (&2) ?

  The SAP error message 88656, which states "Length of material number (&1) exceeds declaration key (&2)," typically occurs when the length of the material number being processed exceeds the maximum length defined by the declaration key in the system.
  Cause:
  
  Material Number Length: The material number you are trying to use exceeds the maximum length allowed by the declaration key. In SAP, different declaration keys can have different length restrictions.
  Configuration Issues: The configuration of the material master or the declaration key may not align with the material number being used.
  Data Entry Error: There may be a mistake in the data entry where an incorrect or overly long material number is being input.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Material Number: Verify the length of the material number you are trying to use. Ensure it does not exceed the maximum length defined for the declaration key.
  Review Declaration Key Settings: Go to the configuration settings for the declaration key in SAP and check the maximum length allowed. You can do this by navigating to the relevant customizing transaction (e.g., SPRO) and looking for the settings related to material master data.
  Adjust Material Number: If the material number is indeed too long, consider using a shorter material number that complies with the declaration key's length restrictions.
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help resources for specific details on the declaration key and its configuration.
  Contact SAP Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance, especially if this is a recurring issue or if it affects multiple users.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Material Master Data: Understanding how material numbers are structured and the rules governing their lengths is crucial. This can be found in the material master configuration settings.
  Declaration Keys: These are used in various contexts, such as compliance reporting, and can have specific rules regarding the data they handle.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional guidance on handling material numbers and declaration keys.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.