How To Fix EM221 - Reference object is not unique

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EM - IS-U Migration

• Message number: 221

• Message text: Reference object is not unique

What causes this issue?

You transferred more than one reference object in the transferred data
record. This is not valid.
You transferred reference objects &V1& and &V2&.

System Response

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

INCLUDE ISU_VERARB OBJECT DOKU ID TX

How to fix this error?

You have the following possibilities:
Check the data record in the error file or in the original file.
Correct the entry.
Import the data record again.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EM221 - Reference object is not unique ?

  The SAP error message EM221, which states "Reference object is not unique," typically occurs in the context of various SAP modules, such as Material Management (MM), Sales and Distribution (SD), or Production Planning (PP). This error indicates that the system has encountered multiple entries that match the criteria for a reference object, but it requires a unique reference to proceed.
  Causes:
  
  Duplicate Entries: The most common cause is that there are duplicate entries in the database for the reference object you are trying to use (e.g., material number, vendor, customer).
  Incorrect Selection Criteria: The selection criteria used to retrieve the reference object may not be specific enough, leading to multiple matches.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues in the configuration of the relevant module that lead to ambiguity in reference objects.
  Data Integrity Issues: Data inconsistencies or integrity issues in the database can also lead to this error.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check for Duplicates: 
  
  Use transaction codes like SE16 or SE11 to check the relevant database tables for duplicate entries. For example, if the error is related to materials, check the MARA table for duplicate material numbers.
  If duplicates are found, you may need to delete or merge them, depending on your business requirements.
  
  
  
  Refine Selection Criteria: 
  
  Ensure that the selection criteria you are using to retrieve the reference object are specific enough to return a unique result. This may involve adding additional filters or parameters.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration: 
  
  Check the configuration settings in the relevant module to ensure that they are set up correctly. This may involve reviewing settings in customizing (transaction SPRO) related to the specific area where the error occurs.
  
  
  
  Data Consistency Check: 
  
  Run data consistency checks or use transaction codes like SLG1 (Application Log) to identify any underlying issues that may be causing the duplicates or ambiguity.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation: 
  
  Review SAP documentation or notes related to the specific module and error message for any known issues or additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: 
  
  If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance. They may provide patches or additional insights based on your specific system configuration.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SE16 (Data Browser), SE11 (Data Dictionary), and SPRO (Customizing).
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any notes related to EM221, as there may be specific fixes or recommendations provided by SAP.
  User Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the EM221 error and implement a suitable solution.