How To Fix BC218 - Adding an entry with this key is not allowed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BC - Scheduler (calendar)

• Message number: 218

• Message text: Adding an entry with this key is not allowed

What causes this issue?

When adding an entry, you have specified a key that is not valid for
this table.
In the case of a software upgrade, it is difficult to differentiate
between old data and new data with initial content. Therefore, such an
entry is not permitted.

System Response

The entry cannot be added.

How to fix this error?

Specify a different key or remove the entry with the function <ZK>Skip
</>.

Procedure for System Administrators

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 BC218 - Adding an entry with this key is not allowed ?

  The SAP error message BC218, which states "Adding an entry with this key is not allowed," typically occurs when you are trying to add a new entry to a table or a data structure where the key you are using already exists or is not permitted. This can happen in various contexts, such as when working with customizing tables, configuration settings, or data entries in SAP.
  Causes:
  
  Duplicate Key: The most common cause is that the key you are trying to add already exists in the database or the internal table.
  Key Constraints: The table or structure may have constraints that prevent certain keys from being added, such as primary key constraints or unique constraints.
  Authorization Issues: Sometimes, the user may not have the necessary authorizations to add entries to the table.
  Incorrect Data Entry: The data being entered may not meet the required format or conditions defined for that particular table or structure.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check for Existing Entries: Before adding a new entry, check if an entry with the same key already exists. You can do this by querying the table or using transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) or SE16 (Data Browser).
  Modify Existing Entry: If the entry already exists and you need to update it, consider modifying the existing entry instead of trying to add a new one.
  Review Key Constraints: Look into the table definition to understand the key constraints and ensure that the key you are trying to add complies with those constraints.
  Authorization Check: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to add entries to the table. You may need to contact your SAP administrator for assistance.
  Data Validation: Validate the data you are trying to enter to ensure it meets all required formats and conditions.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE16 (Data Browser), and SE37 (Function Module) to investigate the structure and data of the table in question.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the specific table or transaction you are working with.
  Debugging: If you have access to debugging tools, you can set breakpoints in the relevant ABAP code to see where the error is being triggered and gather more context about the issue.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting the SAP community for further assistance.