How To Fix K-287 - External number &1 is used in more than one transaction

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: K- -

• Message number: 287

• Message text: External number &1 is used in more than one transaction

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message K-287 - External number &1 is used in more than one transaction ?

  The SAP error message K-287 "External number &1 is used in more than one transaction" typically occurs in the context of financial transactions, particularly when dealing with external number ranges for documents. This error indicates that the external number you are trying to use has already been assigned to another transaction, which violates the uniqueness requirement for external document numbers.
  Cause:
  
  
  Duplicate External Number: The external number you are trying to enter has already been used in another transaction. This can happen if:
  
  The number range is not properly configured.
  There is a manual entry error where the same number is reused.
  Multiple users are trying to post transactions simultaneously using the same external number.
  
  
  
  Configuration Issues: The number range settings in the SAP system may not be correctly defined, allowing for overlaps or duplicates.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Transactions: Verify if the external number you are trying to use is already assigned to another transaction. You can do this by checking the relevant transaction logs or document postings.
  
  
  Use a Different Number: If the number is indeed in use, you will need to select a different external number that is not currently assigned to any transaction.
  
  
  Review Number Range Configuration:
  
  Go to the configuration settings for number ranges in the relevant module (e.g., Financial Accounting, Controlling).
  Ensure that the number ranges are set up correctly and that there are no overlaps.
  If necessary, adjust the number range intervals to prevent future conflicts.
  
  
  
  Consult with Your SAP Administrator: If you are unsure about how to resolve the issue or if the problem persists, it may be helpful to consult with your SAP administrator or support team. They can provide insights into the configuration and help troubleshoot the issue.
  
  
  Check for Concurrent Transactions: If multiple users are posting transactions at the same time, ensure that they are not inadvertently trying to use the same external number.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like SNRO (Number Range Objects) to check and manage number ranges.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for more detailed information on managing external number ranges and handling errors.
  User Exits or BAdIs: In some cases, custom logic may be implemented that affects how external numbers are assigned. Check if any user exits or BAdIs are influencing the number assignment process.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the K-287 error and ensure that external numbers are unique across transactions in your SAP system.