How To Fix CPE_ERP018 - You cannot refer to higher item numbers in the same document

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CPE_ERP - CPE - Messages for ERP

• Message number: 018

• Message text: You cannot refer to higher item numbers in the same document

What causes this issue?

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

System Response

An error occurred during commodity formula evaluation. For at least one
of the requested reference conditon data of item &V1& you referred to a
higher item number in the same document. Such a reference is not
supported: Pricing items are processed item by item and the system
cannot ensure that the results of a higher item number are already
available, when the lower item number is processed.

How to fix this error?

You requested to use the reference condition data for the following
combination of document number, item number and condition type:
Document number: &V2&
Item number: &V3&
Condition type: &V4&
Refer to an item with a lower item number than &V1& or refer to a
condition of another document.

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 CPE_ERP018 - You cannot refer to higher item numbers in the same document ?

  The SAP error message CPE_ERP018, which states "You cannot refer to higher item numbers in the same document," typically occurs in the context of document processing, such as when creating or modifying purchase orders, sales orders, or other transactional documents. This error indicates that there is an attempt to reference an item number that is higher than the current item numbers in the document.
  Cause:
  
  Item Numbering: In SAP, item numbers are sequential. If you are trying to reference an item number that does not exist in the document (e.g., trying to refer to item 5 when only items 1 to 4 exist), this error will occur.
  Document Structure: The document may have been structured in a way that does not allow for referencing higher item numbers, possibly due to the way the items are defined or linked.
  Data Entry Error: There may be a mistake in data entry where an incorrect item number is being referenced.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Item Numbers: Review the document to ensure that you are only referencing existing item numbers. Make sure that the item number you are trying to refer to is already present in the document.
  Correct References: If you need to refer to a higher item number, ensure that the item is created first in the document. You may need to add the missing item before making the reference.
  Review Document Structure: If the document is part of a larger process (like a purchase order linked to a contract), ensure that the structure allows for the references you are trying to make.
  Consult Documentation: Check SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines related to the type of document you are working with.
  Contact Support: If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes (e.g., ME21N for creating purchase orders, VA01 for sales orders) to navigate the document creation process effectively.
  SAP Notes: Look for SAP Notes related to this error message in the SAP Support Portal, as there may be specific patches or updates that address this issue.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on proper document handling and item referencing to minimize the occurrence of such errors.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the CPE_ERP018 error and continue with your document processing in SAP.