How To Fix EWA401 - Material type &1 has already been used

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EWA - IS-U-WA: Waste Management

• Message number: 401

• Message text: Material type &1 has already been used

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 EWA401 - Material type &1 has already been used ?

  The SAP error message EWA401, which states "Material type &1 has already been used," typically occurs when you attempt to create or modify a material in SAP using a material type that has already been assigned to existing materials. This can happen in various scenarios, such as when trying to create a new material with a material type that is already in use or when attempting to change the material type of an existing material.
  Cause:
  
  Material Type Already in Use: The material type you are trying to use has already been assigned to one or more materials in the system.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the material master that restrict the use of certain material types.
  Data Integrity Constraints: SAP enforces data integrity, and certain operations may be restricted if they violate these constraints.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Materials: Verify if the material type you are trying to use is already assigned to existing materials. You can do this by using transaction codes like MM03 (Display Material) to check the material type of existing materials.
  
  
  Use a Different Material Type: If the material type is already in use, consider using a different material type that is appropriate for your new material.
  
  
  Review Configuration: If you believe the material type should be available for new materials, check the configuration settings in the Material Master (transaction code SPRO) to ensure that the material type is correctly set up and not restricted.
  
  
  Consult with SAP Basis or Functional Team: If you are unsure about the configuration or the implications of changing material types, consult with your SAP Basis or functional team for guidance.
  
  
  Check for Customizations: If your organization has custom developments or enhancements, check if any custom logic is affecting the material type assignment.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  MM01: Create Material
  MM02: Change Material
  MM03: Display Material
  SPRO: Customizing Implementation Guide
  
  
  Material Type Configuration: You can find the configuration for material types under the following path in SPRO: 
  
  Logistics -> Material Management -> Material Master -> Basic Settings -> Material Types.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or additional guidance related to this error message.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the EWA401 error and proceed with your material management tasks in SAP.