How To Fix C1188 - The data type already exists

C1188 - Overview

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: C1 - Characteristics maintenance messages

• Message number: 188

• Message text: The data type already exists

What causes this issue?

You entered a user-defined data type that already exists and chose the
function for creating a type.

System Response

Your entry is ignored.

How to fix this error?

If you want to create a data type, choose a description that has not
yet been assigned. If you want to process the data type you entered,
select it from the list of existing data types and choose "Display",
"Change", or "Delete".

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 C1188 - The data type already exists ?

  The SAP error message C1188, "The data type already exists," typically occurs when you are trying to create a new data type in the ABAP Dictionary (SE11) that has the same name as an existing data type. This can happen in various scenarios, such as when defining a new structure, domain, or data element.
  
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Name: You are attempting to create a data type with a name that is already in use in the system.
  Namespace Conflicts: If you are working in a custom namespace, there might be a conflict with standard SAP data types or other custom types.
  Transport Issues: Sometimes, if you are transporting objects between systems, there might be a conflict if the same data type exists in both systems.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Data Types: Before creating a new data type, check the existing data types in the ABAP Dictionary (SE11) to ensure that the name you want to use is not