How To Fix IEN128 - Item category must be a stock item (S)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IEN -

• Message number: 128

• Message text: Item category must be a stock item (S)

Self-Explanatory Message

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message IEN128 - Item category must be a stock item (S) ?

  The SAP error message IEN128, which states "Item category must be a stock item (S)," typically occurs during the creation or processing of a purchase order, sales order, or other document where item categories are defined. This error indicates that the system expects the item category to be a stock item, but the item category specified does not meet this requirement.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Item Category: The item category assigned to the material is not set as a stock item. In SAP, item categories are defined in the material master and determine how the system processes the item.
  Material Master Configuration: The material may not be configured correctly in the material master. For example, it might be set as a non-stock item or a service item.
  Document Type Settings: The document type being used may have specific settings that require stock items, and the item being processed does not comply with these settings.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Item Category: Verify the item category assigned to the material in the material master. Ensure that it is set to a stock item category (e.g., 'S' for stock items).
  
  You can check this by navigating to the material master record (transaction code MM03) and reviewing the Basic Data or Purchasing views.
  
  
  
  Change Item Category: If the item category is incorrect, you may need to change it to a stock item category. This can be done by:
  
  Editing the material master (transaction code MM02) and changing the item category to a valid stock item category.
  
  
  
  Review Document Type Settings: Check the configuration of the document type you are using (e.g., purchase order, sales order) to ensure it is set up to accept stock items. This may require access to the configuration settings in SPRO.
  
  
  Consult with SAP Support or Configuration Team: If you are unsure about the correct item category or how to change it, consult with your SAP support team or the configuration team responsible for material management in your organization.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Material Master: The material master is a central repository of information about materials in SAP. It contains data related to purchasing, sales, inventory management, and accounting.
  Item Categories: Item categories in SAP define how items are treated in various documents. Common stock item categories include 'S' (stock item), 'N' (non-stock item), and others.
  Transaction Codes:
  
  MM03: Display Material Master
  MM02: Change Material Master
  ME21N: Create Purchase Order
  VA01: Create Sales Order
  
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the IEN128 error and ensure that the item category is correctly set for stock items.