How To Fix EI321 - Input of document number is only possible with external number assignment

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 321

• Message text: Input of document number is only possible with external number assignment

What causes this issue?

The indicator for document number required entry was set, but either an
internal number assignment or no number assignment is preset for this
output type.
The SAP system automatically assigns consecutive numbers during internal
number assignment. It is not possible to make an entry externally. This
indicator is only suitable for external number assignment.

System Response

The system responds with an error message.

How to fix this error?

Deactivate the indicator for the required entry of the document number
or choose an external number assignment.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EI321 - Input of document number is only possible with external number assignment ?

  The SAP error message EI321, which states "Input of document number is only possible with external number assignment," typically occurs when you are trying to enter a document number manually in a transaction that is configured to use external number assignment, but the system is set to use internal number assignment instead.
  Cause:
  
  Number Assignment Configuration: The document type you are trying to use is configured for external number assignment in the system settings, but the system is currently set to use internal number assignment.
  Document Type Settings: The specific document type you are working with may have been set up incorrectly, or the configuration may not match the intended use.
  User Authorization: In some cases, user roles and authorizations may restrict the ability to enter document numbers manually.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Document Type Configuration:
  
  Go to the transaction code OBY6 (for Financial Accounting) or OBA7 (for other document types) to check the configuration of the document type you are using.
  Ensure that the document type is set to allow external number assignment if you want to enter document numbers manually.
  
  
  
  Use the Correct Number Assignment:
  
  If the document type is set for external number assignment, ensure that you are entering a valid document number that adheres to the defined number range.
  If you do not need to enter a document number manually, you can let the system generate one automatically by using the internal number assignment.
  
  
  
  Check User Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that your user role has the necessary authorizations to enter document numbers manually. You may need to consult with your SAP security administrator.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review the SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for specific guidance related to your organization's configuration.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Number Ranges: You can check the number range settings for the document type in transaction SNRO (Number Range Objects) to ensure that the ranges are correctly defined.
  SAP Notes: Look for relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues or provide additional guidance related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes related to document entry and number assignment, such as FB01 (Post Document), FB50 (G/L Account Document), etc.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the EI321 error and successfully enter your document numbers as needed.