How To Fix ECCEDI146 - External cross reference number &1 already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ECCEDI - IS-U Deregulation: IDoc Processing

• Message number: 146

• Message text: External cross reference number &1 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.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ECCEDI146 - External cross reference number &1 already exists ?

  The SAP error message ECCEDI146, which states "External cross reference number &1 already exists," typically occurs in the context of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) or when dealing with external cross-reference numbers in SAP systems. This error indicates that the system has detected a duplicate entry for an external cross-reference number that is supposed to be unique.
  Cause:
  
  
  Duplicate Entry: The most common cause of this error is that the external cross-reference number you are trying to enter already exists in the system. This could happen if:
  
  The same transaction or document has been processed multiple times.
  There is a data entry error where the same reference number is being reused.
  The system is set up to prevent duplicates, and the incoming data contains a reference number that has already been recorded.
  
  
  
  Configuration Issues: Sometimes, the configuration settings for the EDI or cross-reference number management may not be set up correctly, leading to unexpected behavior.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Entries: 
  
  Use transaction codes like SE16 or SE16N to check the relevant database tables (e.g., EDI-related tables) for existing entries with the same external cross-reference number.
  Identify if the number is indeed already in use and determine the context of its usage.
  
  
  
  Modify the Incoming Data: 
  
  If you are processing incoming EDI messages, ensure that the data being sent does not contain duplicate reference numbers. You may need to coordinate with the sender to resolve this.
  
  
  
  Adjust Configuration: 
  
  Review the configuration settings related to EDI and cross-reference management. Ensure that the settings align with your business processes and that they allow for the expected behavior regarding duplicate entries.
  
  
  
  Error Handling: 
  
  Implement error handling in your EDI processing logic to manage situations where duplicates are detected. This could involve logging the error, notifying relevant personnel, or automatically generating a new unique reference number.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation: 
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or support notes related to EDI processing and cross-reference management for additional insights and best practices.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common problems.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as WE02 (for monitoring EDI messages) and WE19 (for testing EDI messages).
  Data Management: Ensure that your data management practices include regular audits to prevent duplicate entries in the system.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to engage with your SAP support team or consult with an SAP expert for further assistance.