How To Fix IRW_LT046 - Header entry already exists (see long text)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IRW_LT - ILM LT

• Message number: 046

• Message text: Header entry already exists (see long text)

What causes this issue?

Header entry already exists

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?

The header entry is the row with the lowest sequence number in the
structure definitions.
The parent table and child table entries should be the same for the
header entry in the structure definition.
There should be only one header entry in any structure definitions.
In the example, you can see the SFLIGHT is the Header entry and when you
make SFLIGHT as Header entry make sure that no other header entry is
present.
Sequence Parent Table Child Table
009 SFLIGHT SFLIGHT
010 SFLIGHT SBOOK

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message IRW_LT046 - Header entry already exists (see long text) ?

  The SAP error message IRW_LT046, which states "Header entry already exists," typically occurs in the context of logistics and inventory management, particularly when dealing with handling units or transport units. This error indicates that there is an attempt to create a new header entry in the system, but an entry with the same key already exists.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Entry: The most common cause of this error is that the system is trying to create a new handling unit or transport unit with a header that already exists in the database.
  Incorrect Data Entry: There may be a mistake in the data being entered, such as using an existing handling unit number or transport unit number.
  System Configuration: There could be issues with the configuration of the handling unit management or transport management settings in SAP.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Existing Entries: Verify if the header entry you are trying to create already exists. You can do this by searching for the handling unit or transport unit in the relevant transaction (e.g., HU management transactions).
  Use Existing Entry: If the entry already exists, consider using the existing handling unit or transport unit instead of creating a new one.
  Correct Data Input: Ensure that the data you are entering is correct and does not conflict with existing entries.
  Review Configuration: If the issue persists, review the configuration settings related to handling units and transport units in your SAP system. Ensure that they are set up correctly to avoid conflicts.
  Consult Documentation: Check the SAP documentation or help files for more specific guidance related to the error message and the context in which it occurs.
  Contact Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with SAP experts for further assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as HU02 (Change Handling Unit), HU03 (Display Handling Unit), and others related to handling unit management.
  SAP Notes: Look for SAP Notes related to this error message in the SAP Support Portal, as they may provide additional insights or patches that address the issue.
  User Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the IRW_LT046 error and implement a suitable solution.