How To Fix HPC043 - The object has subnodes and cannot be removed from the hierarchy

HPC043 - Overview

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: HPC - Classification-Based Product Hierarchy

• Message number: 043

• Message text: The object has subnodes and cannot be removed from the hierarchy

What causes this issue?

The object is used in a classification-based master data hierarchy.
There are other objects that are subnodes of this object. To keep the
hierarchy consistent, the class assignment of this object cannot be
removed.

System Response

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

How to fix this error?

To remove the class assignment, remove the subnodes.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

HPC043 - Details

• The SAP error message HPC043, which states "The object has subnodes and cannot be removed from the hierarchy," typically occurs when you attempt to delete or remove a node (object) from a hierarchical structure in SAP that has child nodes (subnodes) associated with it. This is common in various SAP modules, such as SAP HCM (Human Capital Management) or SAP Master Data Management.
  
  Cause:
  The error arises because the system enforces data integrity rules that prevent the deletion of a parent node that still has child nodes. This is to ensure that the hierarchical structure remains valid and that no orphaned nodes are left in the hierarchy.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you need to follow these steps:
  
  
  Identify Subnodes: First, identify the child nodes (subnodes) associated with the parent node you are trying to delete. You can usually do this by navigating through the hierarchy in the relevant SAP transaction or using a report