How To Fix COM_PRODUCT481 - Reference product type &1 cannot be copied to target product type &2

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: COM_PRODUCT - General Messages on Products

• Message number: 481

• Message text: Reference product type &1 cannot be copied to target product type &2

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message COM_PRODUCT481 - Reference product type &1 cannot be copied to target product type &2 ?

  The SAP error message COM_PRODUCT481 indicates that there is an issue with copying a reference product type to a target product type. This typically occurs in the context of product master data management, particularly when dealing with product hierarchies or product types in SAP's Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) or similar modules.
  Cause:
  The error arises when there is an incompatibility between the reference product type and the target product type. This can happen due to several reasons:
  
  Different Product Types: The reference product type and the target product type may not be compatible. For example, you might be trying to copy a finished product type to a raw material type, which is not allowed.
  Missing Configuration: The target product type may not be configured to accept the attributes or characteristics of the reference product type.
  Data Integrity Issues: There may be existing data or settings that prevent the copying process from completing successfully.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Product Types: Verify that the reference product type and the target product type are compatible. You can do this by reviewing the product type definitions in the SAP system.
  
  
  Review Configuration: Ensure that the target product type is properly configured to accept the attributes of the reference product type. This may involve checking the configuration settings in the relevant customizing transactions (e.g., SPRO).
  
  
  Use Correct Copying Method: If you are using a specific transaction or program to copy products, ensure that you are using the correct method for the types involved.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on product type compatibility and copying procedures.
  
  
  Check for Existing Data: Look for any existing data or settings that might conflict with the copying process. This could include existing product master data that may need to be adjusted or deleted.
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance. They may provide insights specific to your system configuration.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as C223 (Maintain Product Types) or C201 (Create Product) to manage product types and their configurations.
  SAP Notes: Search for SAP Notes related to COM_PRODUCT481 for any known issues or patches that may address the error.
  User Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, providing additional insights or solutions.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the error and implement a suitable solution.