How To Fix COWIPB343 - WIP batch is original batch; characteristics should not be changed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: COWIPB - Messages for WIP Batch

• Message number: 343

• Message text: WIP batch is original batch; characteristics should not be changed

What causes this issue?

The chosen WIP batch has been assigned to another WIP batch as the
original batch. This other WIP batch has already been assigned to a
goods receipt line. You should therefore not subsequently change the
characteristic value assignments of this WIP batch.
If you nevertheless change the characteristic value assignments, you
must take account of the following:
The system <ZH>does not</> bequeath the changed characteristic value
assignments to the other WIP batch and its succeeding WIP batches.
If a goods receipt batch has already been created for the other WIP
batch or its succeeding WIP batches, this can lead to a difference in
characteristic value assignments between the original batch and the
goods receipt batch.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message COWIPB343 - WIP batch is original batch; characteristics should not be changed ?

  The SAP error message COWIPB343 indicates that there is an issue with the Work in Progress (WIP) batch in the context of production or inventory management. Specifically, it states that the WIP batch is the original batch, and therefore, the characteristics of this batch should not be changed. This error typically arises when there is an attempt to modify the characteristics of a batch that is still in use or has not been fully processed.
  Cause:
  
  Batch Characteristics Change: The error occurs when there is an attempt to change the characteristics of a batch that is marked as the original batch in the WIP process.
  WIP Accounting: The batch is still being accounted for in WIP calculations, and changing its characteristics could lead to inconsistencies in financial reporting or inventory management.
  Batch Status: The batch may be in a status that does not allow for changes, such as being locked for processing or being part of an ongoing production order.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Batch Status: Verify the status of the batch in question. If it is still in use, you may need to wait until the production order is completed or the batch is no longer needed.
  Review WIP Settings: Ensure that the WIP settings in your configuration allow for the intended changes. If necessary, consult with your SAP configuration team to adjust settings.
  Use a New Batch: If changes to the characteristics are necessary, consider creating a new batch with the desired characteristics instead of modifying the original batch.
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on handling WIP batches and their characteristics.
  Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like MB1A, MB1B, or CO02 to check the status of the batch and the associated production order.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Batch Management: Understand how batch management works in SAP, including the implications of changing batch characteristics.
  WIP Accounting: Familiarize yourself with how WIP is calculated and reported in SAP, as this will help in understanding the importance of maintaining the integrity of original batches.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance on handling WIP batches.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in production and inventory management within SAP.