How To Fix IU855 - Table was locked for import

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IU - Incremental Conversion (ICNV)

• Message number: 855

• Message text: Table was locked for import

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message IU855 - Table was locked for import ?

  The SAP error message IU855, which states "Table was locked for import," typically occurs when there is an attempt to import data into a table that is currently locked. This can happen during various operations, such as data imports, updates, or migrations, where the system prevents concurrent access to ensure data integrity.
  Causes:
  
  Concurrent Processes: Another process or user is currently accessing or modifying the same table, causing it to be locked.
  Long-running Transactions: A transaction that takes a long time to complete may hold a lock on the table longer than expected.
  System Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance or background jobs may temporarily lock tables.
  Database Locks: Locks at the database level (e.g., due to a deadlock situation) can also lead to this error.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Identify the Lock:
  
  Use transaction codes like SM12 (for lock entries) to check which user or process is holding the lock on the table.
  You can also use SM21 to check the system log for any related messages.
  
  
  
  Wait for Completion:
  
  If the lock is due to a long-running transaction, it may be best to wait until the transaction completes.
  
  
  
  Terminate the Lock:
  
  If you determine that the lock is unnecessary or stuck, you can delete the lock entry using SM12. However, be cautious with this approach, as it may lead to data inconsistency if the other process is still running.
  
  
  
  Check Background Jobs:
  
  Review any background jobs that might be running and causing the lock. You can use SM37 to monitor job statuses.
  
  
  
  Database Administration:
  
  If the issue persists, consult your database administrator to check for any database-level locks or issues.
  
  
  
  Retry the Operation:
  
  After resolving the lock, retry the operation that caused the error.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: Display and manage lock entries.
  SM21: System log for monitoring system messages.
  SM37: Job monitoring to check for background jobs.
  
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for more details on table locking mechanisms and best practices for data imports.
  
  
  Performance Monitoring: Regularly monitor system performance and lock situations to prevent future occurrences of this error.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the IU855 error and successfully import data into the locked table.