How To Fix C2281 - Negative quantity not allowed for externally-procured component &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: C2 - Other messages production orders

• Message number: 281

• Message text: Negative quantity not allowed for externally-procured component &1

What causes this issue?

The externally procured component &V1& has a negative requirement
quantity. A negative requirement quantity is not allowed for
externally procured components.

System Response

The system does not generate a purchase requisition and the validity
for MRP of the component is not reset to not apportioned.

How to fix this error?

To receive a purchase requisition for this component, you must change
the requirement quantity in the purchasing detail screen of the
component to a positive value. Then activate the reservation/purchase
requisition manually.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message C2281 - Negative quantity not allowed for externally-procured component &1 ?

  The SAP error message C2281, which states "Negative quantity not allowed for externally-procured component &1," typically occurs in the context of materials management and procurement processes. This error indicates that there is an attempt to process a negative quantity for a component that is externally procured, which is not allowed in SAP.
  Cause:
  
  Negative Quantity Entry: The most common cause is that a negative quantity has been entered for a component that is marked as externally procured (e.g., a purchased part).
  Incorrect Configuration: The material master settings for the component may not be configured correctly, leading to issues when trying to process transactions involving that component.
  Mismatched Document Types: The error can also occur if there is a mismatch in the document types being used in the transaction (e.g., trying to create a purchase order with a negative quantity).
  Inventory Adjustments: If there are attempts to adjust inventory levels negatively for externally procured items, this error may arise.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Quantity Entries: Review the transaction where the error occurred and ensure that no negative quantities are being entered for the externally procured component.
  Review Material Master Data: Check the material master data for the component in question. Ensure that the procurement type is set correctly and that the settings align with your business processes.
  Correct Document Types: Ensure that the correct document types are being used for the transactions. For example, if you are creating a purchase order, ensure that the quantities are positive.
  Inventory Management: If you are trying to perform inventory adjustments, ensure that you are not trying to reduce the stock of an externally procured item below zero.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or your organization's internal guidelines for handling procurement and inventory management to ensure compliance with best practices.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME22N (Change Purchase Order), and MIGO (Goods Movement) to troubleshoot and resolve issues.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to perform the actions related to procurement and inventory management.
  Training and Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with a SAP expert for further assistance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and implement the necessary solutions to resolve it.