How To Fix F5138 - You are entering line item &, a maximum of 999 line items are defined

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: F5 - Document Editing

• Message number: 138

• Message text: You are entering line item &, a maximum of 999 line items are defined

Self-Explanatory Message

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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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message F5138 - You are entering line item &, a maximum of 999 line items are defined ?

  The SAP error message F5138 indicates that you are trying to enter more line items than the system allows for a single transaction. Specifically, the message states that you are entering line item &, and the maximum number of line items defined is 999. This is a common limitation in certain SAP transactions, particularly in financial postings.
  Cause:
  
  Exceeding Line Item Limit: The primary cause of this error is that the transaction you are attempting to execute has a predefined limit on the number of line items that can be processed in a single entry. In this case, the limit is set to 999 line items.
  Configuration Settings: The limit may be configured in the system settings, which can vary based on the organization's requirements or the specific module being used.
  
  Solution:
  
  Reduce the Number of Line Items: The most straightforward solution is to reduce the number of line items you are trying to enter in the transaction. If you have more than 999 line items, consider splitting the transaction into multiple entries.
  Check Configuration Settings: If you believe that the limit should be higher based on your business needs, you can check the configuration settings in the SAP system. This may require access to the configuration settings or assistance from an SAP administrator.
  Batch Processing: If applicable, consider using batch processing or other methods to handle large volumes of data without exceeding the line item limit.
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for any specific guidelines or best practices related to the transaction you are working with.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error may occur in various transaction codes related to financial postings, such as FB50 (G/L Account Document Entry), F-02 (General Posting), etc.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this issue or provide additional guidance on handling large volumes of line items.
  Performance Considerations: When dealing with a large number of line items, consider the performance implications and ensure that the system can handle the volume without impacting processing times.
  
  If you continue to experience issues or if the error persists after attempting the above solutions, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP support team for further assistance.