How To Fix G00886 - Characteristic &1 is too long (max. length is &3)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: G00 - SAP Consolidation

• Message number: 886

• Message text: Characteristic &1 is too long (max. length is &3)

What causes this issue?

You chose characteristic &V1& as the independent characteristic for
&V2&. The length of characteristic &V1& exceeds &V3& characters. Only a
maximum of &V3& characters are allowed for independent characteristics.

System Response

Error

How to fix this error?

Choose a different characteristic as the independent characteristic.
Use possible entries.

Procedure for System Administrators

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message G00886 - Characteristic &1 is too long (max. length is &3) ?

  The SAP error message G00886 indicates that a characteristic value you are trying to enter exceeds the maximum allowed length defined in the system. This error typically occurs in the context of SAP's classification system, where characteristics are used to describe the properties of objects (like materials, equipment, etc.).
  Cause:
  The error occurs when:
  
  You are trying to input a characteristic value that exceeds the maximum length defined for that characteristic in the system.
  The characteristic has been defined with a specific maximum length, and the value you are trying to assign exceeds this limit.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Characteristic Definition:
  
  Go to the transaction code CT04 (Change Characteristic) in SAP.
  Enter the characteristic name that is causing the error and check its definition.
  Look for the "Length" field to see the maximum length allowed for that characteristic.
  
  
  
  Modify the Input Value:
  
  If the value you are trying to enter exceeds the maximum length, you will need to shorten the value to fit within the defined limit.
  Ensure that the new value still conveys the necessary information.
  
  
  
  Adjust Characteristic Length (if applicable):
  
  If it is appropriate and necessary, you can change the maximum length of the characteristic by editing its definition in CT04. However, be cautious with this approach as it may have implications for existing data and processes.
  After making changes, ensure to test the characteristic with the new length to confirm that it resolves the issue.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation or Support:
  
  If you are unsure about making changes to the characteristic or if the issue persists, consult your SAP documentation or reach out to your SAP support team for assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  CT04: Change Characteristic
  CT03: Display Characteristic
  CL02: Change Class
  CL03: Display Class
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address specific issues related to characteristics and their lengths.
  
  
  Testing: After making any changes, always perform thorough testing to ensure that the changes do not negatively impact other areas of the system.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the G00886 error and successfully input the characteristic value within the allowed limits.