How To Fix CRM_TOOL018 - The start date must come before the end date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CRM_TOOL - Tool Management

• Message number: 018

• Message text: The start date must come before the end date

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CRM_TOOL018 - The start date must come before the end date ?

  The SAP error message CRM_TOOL018, which states "The start date must come before the end date," typically occurs in scenarios where date fields are involved, such as in CRM activities, campaigns, or other date-sensitive transactions. This error indicates that the system has detected that the start date you have entered is either the same as or later than the end date, which is not allowed.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date Entry: The most common cause is that the user has mistakenly entered the start date as being after the end date.
  Date Format Issues: Sometimes, the date format may not be recognized correctly, leading to confusion in the order of dates.
  System Configuration: In some cases, there may be custom validations or configurations that enforce this rule more strictly.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Date Entries: Review the start and end dates you have entered. Ensure that the start date is earlier than the end date.
  Correct Format: Make sure that the dates are entered in the correct format as per your system's configuration (e.g., DD/MM/YYYY or MM/DD/YYYY).
  Validation: If you are using a date picker, ensure that you are selecting the correct dates. Sometimes, manual entry can lead to errors.
  Review Related Fields: If there are other related date fields, ensure they are also correctly configured and do not conflict with the start and end dates.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the date logic in your specific transaction, refer to the SAP documentation or help files related to the specific module you are working with.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this error or provide additional context.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on how to correctly enter dates in the system to avoid this error in the future.
  System Configuration: If this error occurs frequently, it may be worth reviewing the system configuration or custom validations that could be causing confusion.
  
  If the issue persists after checking the above points, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant for further assistance.