How To Fix DLCN009 - External call numbers in header and items are not consistent

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DLCN - DELCON : System Messages for DC / Days'Collective Dely Note

• Message number: 009

• Message text: External call numbers in header and items are not consistent

What causes this issue?

The IDoc contains external call numbers both on header and on item
level. The numbers, however, are not consistent.

System Response

The system cannot create a billing document.
It is not possible to match the delivery confirmation.

How to fix this error?

Check the external call numbers of the IDoc. It is possible that other
external call numbers (production numbers) are also on header level.
Then if possible, correct the IDoc and using the test tool, enter it
into the system again.

Procedure for System Administrators

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DLCN009 - External call numbers in header and items are not consistent ?

  The SAP error message DLCN009 indicates that there is an inconsistency between the external call numbers in the header and the items of a document, such as a purchase order or sales order. This error typically arises in scenarios where external call numbers (like reference numbers or identifiers from external systems) are used to link the header and item data, and there is a mismatch between them.
  Cause:
  
  Mismatch in External Call Numbers: The external call number specified in the header does not match the external call numbers specified in one or more of the items.
  Data Entry Errors: Manual entry errors during the creation of the document can lead to discrepancies.
  Integration Issues: If the document is being created or updated through an interface with an external system, there may be issues with how the data is being passed or transformed.
  Document Changes: If the document was modified after its initial creation, the external call numbers may not have been updated consistently across the header and items.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check External Call Numbers: Review the external call numbers in both the header and the item levels of the document. Ensure they match.
  Correct Data Entry: If there are discrepancies, correct the external call numbers in either the header or the items to ensure consistency.
  Review Integration Logic: If the document is being created or modified through an external interface, check the logic to ensure that the external call numbers are being handled correctly.
  Recreate the Document: If the document is too complex to fix, consider deleting and recreating it with the correct external call numbers.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or your organization's guidelines for handling external call numbers to ensure compliance with best practices.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like ME23N (Display Purchase Order) or VA03 (Display Sales Order) to view the document and check the external call numbers.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to make changes to the document.
  Testing: After making corrections, test the document to ensure that the error does not reoccur.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant for further assistance.