How To Fix CRM_IND_MESSAGE017 - The header you entered already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CRM_IND_MESSAGE - Message class for Indirects

• Message number: 017

• Message text: The header you entered already exists

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CRM_IND_MESSAGE017 - The header you entered already exists ?

  The SAP error message CRM_IND_MESSAGE017 ("The header you entered already exists") typically occurs in the SAP Customer Relationship Management (CRM) module when you attempt to create a new document (such as a sales order, service request, or any other transactional document) that has a header that matches an existing document in the system. This can happen due to various reasons, such as duplicate entries or incorrect data entry.
  Causes:
  
  Duplicate Document: You are trying to create a document with a header that already exists in the system.
  Incorrect Data Entry: There may be a mistake in the data you are entering, leading to a conflict with existing records.
  System Configuration: Certain configurations or settings in the CRM system may enforce unique constraints on document headers.
  Data Migration Issues: If data has been migrated from another system, there may be duplicates that were not properly handled.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Existing Documents: Before creating a new document, check if a document with the same header already exists. You can do this by searching for the document in the relevant transaction or using the search functionality.
  
  
  Modify the Header: If you find that the header already exists, consider modifying the header information (e.g., changing the document type, date, or other relevant fields) to create a unique entry.
  
  
  Review Data Entry: Ensure that you are entering the correct data. Double-check for typos or incorrect values that might lead to a conflict.
  
  
  Consult with IT or SAP Support: If you believe this error is occurring due to a system configuration issue or if you are unable to resolve it, consult with your IT department or SAP support team for further assistance.
  
  
  Check for Customizations: If your SAP system has custom developments or enhancements, check if any of these are causing the issue. Custom logic might enforce unique constraints that are not standard in SAP.
  
  
  Data Cleanup: If the issue is due to duplicate records in the system, consider performing a data cleanup to remove or merge duplicates.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes in SAP CRM that can help you search for existing documents (e.g., CRMD_ORDER, CRMD_ORDERADM_H).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP Notes can provide insights into specific bugs or configuration settings that may be relevant.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation for CRM to understand how document headers are managed and any constraints that may apply.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and take appropriate action to resolve it.