How To Fix K4018 - You cannot save because there are cost element groups which overlap

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: K4 - Order settlement configuration tables

• Message number: 018

• Message text: You cannot save because there are cost element groups which overlap

What causes this issue?

Before saving, the system checks whether the cost element groups in the
PA settlement assignments overlap. Your structure contains overlaps.
This is not permitted since there can be no guarantee that the cost
element assignment is unambiguous.
The intervals specified in the cost element groups must be unique for
each variance category. This means, of course, that different variance
categories may contain the same cost elements.
If the PA settlement assignment contains only one cost element group
but no variance categories, then this cost element group is valid for
all variance categories.

System Response

You cannot save your data.

How to fix this error?

Remove the overlaps.
To do this, select the function <ZK>Edit -> Check</>. The system
displays the PA assignments where overlaps were found.
You can remove these overlaps by changing the cost element groups
or by removing the offending cost elements from the cost element groups
you entered.
Using the function <ZK>Goto -> Process group</> you can display the
cost element intervals for the group you entered.
Using <ZK>Goto -> Create group</> you can create a new group.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message K4018 - You cannot save because there are cost element groups which overlap ?

  The SAP error message K4018, "You cannot save because there are cost element groups which overlap," typically occurs in the context of cost accounting when you are trying to save a configuration or transaction that involves cost element groups. This error indicates that there are overlapping cost element groups defined in the system, which can lead to ambiguity in cost allocation.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error is the existence of overlapping cost element groups in the configuration. Cost element groups are used to categorize cost elements for reporting and analysis purposes. If two or more cost element groups include the same cost elements, it creates a conflict, as the system cannot determine which group to use for a particular transaction.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you need to identify and eliminate the overlapping cost element groups. Here are the steps you can take:
  
  
  Identify Overlapping Groups:
  
  Go to the transaction code OKB9 (Cost Element Group) to view the defined cost element groups.
  Check the cost elements assigned to each group and identify any overlaps.
  
  
  
  Modify Cost Element Groups:
  
  Once you have identified the overlapping groups, you can either:
  
  Remove the overlapping cost elements from one of the groups.
  Create a new cost element group that does not overlap with existing groups.
  
  
  
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Ensure that the configuration of cost element groups aligns with your organization's reporting and analysis needs.
  Make sure that each cost element is assigned to only one group to avoid future conflicts.
  
  
  
  Test Changes:
  
  After making the necessary changes, try to save the transaction or configuration again to see if the error persists.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about the changes, refer to SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for guidance on best practices for managing cost element groups.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as OKB9 (Cost Element Group) and KSB1 (Cost Centers: Actual Line Items) for further analysis.
  Cost Element Types: Understand the different types of cost elements (primary and secondary) and how they relate to cost element groups.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message, as there may be known issues or fixes provided by SAP.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the K4018 error and successfully save your configuration or transaction in SAP.