How To Fix BUP_CENT021 - External BP number &1 is already assigned

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BUP_CENT - BP: Messages for Segment General Data

• Message number: 021

• Message text: External BP number &1 is already assigned

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BUP_CENT021 - External BP number &1 is already assigned ?

  The SAP error message BUP_CENT021 indicates that the external Business Partner (BP) number you are trying to assign is already in use. This typically occurs when you attempt to create or assign a Business Partner with an external number that has already been assigned to another Business Partner in the system.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate External Number: The external Business Partner number you are trying to use is already assigned to another Business Partner.
  Data Migration Issues: If you are migrating data from another system, there may be conflicts with existing external numbers.
  Incorrect Input: The external number may have been entered incorrectly, leading to confusion with existing records.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Business Partners: 
  
  Use transaction code BP to search for existing Business Partners and verify if the external number is already assigned.
  You can search by the external number to see if it is linked to another Business Partner.
  
  
  
  Use a Different External Number: 
  
  If the external number is indeed in use, consider using a different external number that is not already assigned.
  
  
  
  Review Data Migration: 
  
  If this issue arises during data migration, ensure that the external numbers being imported do not conflict with existing records. You may need to adjust your data mapping or cleansing processes.
  
  
  
  Consult with Your SAP Administrator: 
  
  If you believe this is an error or if you need to reassign the external number, consult with your SAP administrator or support team. They may have the necessary permissions to reassign or delete Business Partners if required.
  
  
  
  Check for Deactivated Business Partners: 
  
  Sometimes, a Business Partner may be deactivated but still retains its external number. You may need to reactivate or delete the Business Partner if it is no longer needed.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  BP: Business Partner Maintenance
  SE16N: Data Browser to check the underlying tables for Business Partner data.
  
  
  
  Business Partner Roles: Ensure that the Business Partner roles are correctly assigned, as this can affect how external numbers are managed.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes or documentation that may provide additional insights or updates regarding this error message.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue related to the BUP_CENT021 error message.