How To Fix EM261 - Item number &1 exists twice. Check the sequence

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EM - IS-U Migration

• Message number: 261

• Message text: Item number &1 exists twice. Check the sequence

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EM261 - Item number &1 exists twice. Check the sequence ?

  The SAP error message EM261 ("Item number &1 exists twice. Check the sequence") typically occurs in the context of document processing, such as when creating or modifying purchase orders, sales orders, or other transactional documents. This error indicates that there are duplicate item numbers in the document, which violates the requirement for unique item identifiers.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Item Entries: The most common cause of this error is that the same item number has been entered more than once in the document.
  Incorrect Sequence: The item numbers may not be in the expected sequence, which can happen if items are added or removed in a non-sequential manner.
  Data Entry Errors: Manual data entry mistakes can lead to unintentional duplication of item numbers.
  Copying Documents: If a document is copied from another document that contains duplicate items, the same issue can arise.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Item Numbers: Review the item numbers in the document to identify any duplicates. Ensure that each item number is unique.
  Remove Duplicates: If duplicates are found, remove or correct the duplicate entries to ensure that each item number appears only once.
  Rearrange Item Sequence: If the error is related to the sequence, rearranging the items in the correct order may resolve the issue.
  Use Unique Identifiers: When entering items, ensure that each item has a unique identifier to prevent future occurrences of this error.
  Validation: Implement validation checks in the data entry process to catch duplicates before the document is saved.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: This error can occur in various transaction codes, such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME22N (Change Purchase Order), VA01 (Create Sales Order), etc.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message, as there may be known issues or fixes provided by SAP.
  User Training: Providing training to users on proper data entry practices can help minimize the occurrence of this error in the future.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the EM261 error and ensure that your documents are processed correctly in SAP.