How To Fix IS138 - Enter a material and a serial number

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IS - Equipment management

• Message number: 138

• Message text: Enter a material and a serial number

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 IS138 - Enter a material and a serial number ?

  The SAP error message IS138 ("Enter a material and a serial number") typically occurs in the context of inventory management or logistics when a user attempts to perform an action that requires both a material number and a serial number, but one or both of these fields are not filled in.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Material Number: The user has not entered a material number in the relevant field.
  Missing Serial Number: The user has not entered a serial number, which is required for the specific material.
  Incorrect Transaction: The transaction being performed may require both fields to be filled, and the user may be in a transaction that does not support the current input.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the system that require serial numbers for certain materials, and the user is not complying with these settings.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Enter Material and Serial Number: Ensure that both the material number and the serial number are entered correctly in the respective fields. 
  
  Check if the material number is valid and exists in the system.
  Ensure that the serial number is associated with the entered material number.
  
  
  
  Check Transaction Type: Verify that you are using the correct transaction for the operation you are trying to perform. Some transactions may not require serial numbers, while others do.
  
  
  Review Material Master Data: Check the material master data to ensure that the material is set up to require serial numbers. This can be done by:
  
  Navigating to the material master record (transaction MM03).
  Checking the "General Plant Data/Storage" view for serial number management settings.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the requirements for the transaction you are performing, consult the SAP documentation or help files for guidance on the specific transaction.
  
  
  User Training: If users frequently encounter this error, consider providing additional training on the relevant processes and data entry requirements.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Common transaction codes where this error might occur include MIGO (Goods Movement), MB1A (Goods Withdrawal), and others related to inventory management.
  Serial Number Management: Understanding how serial numbers are managed in SAP can help prevent this error. Serial numbers are often used for tracking high-value items or items that require individual tracking.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to this error message, as there may be patches or updates that address specific scenarios.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant for further assistance.