How To Fix IH021 - Reference location & does not exist

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IH - structuring

• Message number: 021

• Message text: Reference location & does not exist

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message IH021 - Reference location & does not exist ?

  The SAP error message IH021 ("Reference location & does not exist") typically occurs in the context of Plant Maintenance (PM) or other modules where reference locations (such as functional locations or equipment) are being used. This error indicates that the system cannot find the specified reference location in the database.
  Causes:
  
  Non-Existent Reference Location: The reference location you are trying to use does not exist in the system. This could be due to a typo in the location code or the location not being created yet.
  Incorrect Configuration: The reference location may not be properly configured or activated in the system.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary permissions to view or access the reference location.
  Data Consistency Issues: There may be inconsistencies in the database, such as missing entries or corrupted data.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Verify the Reference Location:
  
  Check the reference location code you are using for any typographical errors.
  Ensure that the reference location exists in the system by using transaction codes like IL03 (Display Functional Location) or IE03 (Display Equipment).
  
  
  
  Create the Reference Location:
  
  If the reference location does not exist, you may need to create it using transaction codes IL01 (Create Functional Location) or IE01 (Create Equipment).
  
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Ensure that the reference location is properly configured and activated in the system. This may involve checking the settings in the relevant configuration areas.
  
  
  
  Authorization Check:
  
  Verify that the user has the necessary authorizations to access the reference location. This can be done by checking user roles and authorizations in transaction SU01 (User Maintenance).
  
  
  
  Data Consistency Check:
  
  If you suspect data consistency issues, you may need to run consistency checks or consult with your SAP Basis team to ensure the integrity of the database.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help files related to the specific module you are working with for additional context and troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as IL01, IL03, IE01, IE03, and SU01.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting SAP Community forums for additional assistance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the IH021 error and implement a solution.