How To Fix EI318 - Document &1, output &2 must be entered only for first processing

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EI - Foreign Trade: Gen. Output

• Message number: 318

• Message text: Document &1, output &2 must be entered only for first processing

What causes this issue?

You attempted to issue output &V2& of billing document &V1& via repeat
processing, but the print status of this message was previously set
manually to 'error' (because of a printer problem, for example). An
output using repeat processing is not possible.

System Response

If you execute the message output in the foreground, the system cancels
the edit process. If you start the message output in the background,
the edit process of the current output is cancelled, but other, future
outputs are processed normally.

How to fix this error?

An output with print status manually set to 'error' can only be
reissued via first processing.
Proceed as follows:
Check in billing document &V1& to see if unprocessed output &V2&
exists.
If it does not, create output &V2& for billing document &V1&.
Then, start the output transaction for foreign trade outputs in the
first processing edit mode.
Reissue output &V2&.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EI318 - Document &1, output &2 must be entered only for first processing ?

  The SAP error message EI318 indicates that there is an issue with the processing of a document and its associated output. Specifically, it suggests that the document and output combination you are trying to enter is only valid for the first processing of that document. This error typically arises in scenarios involving document processing, such as invoice processing, delivery processing, or similar transactions.
  Cause:
  The error occurs when:
  
  You are attempting to enter a document and output combination that is not allowed for subsequent processing stages.
  The system expects that certain outputs (like print outputs, electronic outputs, etc.) should only be specified during the initial processing of the document.
  There may be a configuration issue or a misunderstanding of the document flow in the system.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the EI318 error, consider the following steps:
  
  
  Check Document Status: Ensure that the document you are trying to process is in the correct status for the action you are attempting. If the document has already been processed, you may need to create a new document or modify the existing one appropriately.
  
  
  Review Output Settings: Verify the output settings for the document type you are working with. Ensure that the output you are trying to enter is indeed valid for the first processing and not for subsequent actions.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation or help files related to the specific transaction or document type you are working with. This can provide insights into the expected behavior and restrictions.
  
  
  Configuration Check: If you have access to the configuration settings, check the output determination settings for the document type in question. Ensure that the settings align with your business processes.
  
  
  User Training: If this error is occurring frequently, consider providing additional training to users on the correct procedures for processing documents and entering outputs.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error message or provide additional guidance.
  
  
  Contact Support: If the issue persists and you cannot find a resolution, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context, you may be using transaction codes like VF01 (Create Billing Document), VL01N (Create Outbound Delivery), etc.
  Document Flow: Understanding the document flow in SAP can help clarify when and how outputs should be entered.
  Output Types: Familiarize yourself with the different output types available in your SAP system and their respective processing rules.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the EI318 error and implement a suitable solution.