How To Fix KU303 - Hierarchy error: Total hierarchy length (&) exceeds max. length (&)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KU - Costing: Rollup

• Message number: 303

• Message text: Hierarchy error: Total hierarchy length (&) exceeds max. length (&)

What causes this issue?

The total hierarchy length (controlling area + nodes) exceeds the
maximum length. The maximum length was defined in Customizing.

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?

Go into Customizing and check the structure of the hierarchy.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KU303 - Hierarchy error: Total hierarchy length (&) exceeds max. length (&) ?

  The SAP error message KU303, which states "Hierarchy error: Total hierarchy length (&) exceeds max. length (&)," typically occurs in the context of SAP's Controlling (CO) module, particularly when dealing with cost center hierarchies or other hierarchical structures.
  Cause:
  The error indicates that the total length of the hierarchy exceeds the maximum allowed length defined in the system. This can happen due to:
  
  Excessive Levels: The hierarchy may have too many levels or nodes, leading to a total length that surpasses the system's defined limit.
  Long Node Names: If the names of the nodes in the hierarchy are too long, they can contribute to exceeding the maximum length.
  Configuration Settings: The maximum length for hierarchies is defined in the system settings, and it may be set too low for the current structure being used.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the KU303 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Review Hierarchy Structure:
  
  Check the hierarchy structure to see if it can be simplified. Reducing the number of levels or nodes can help bring the total length within acceptable limits.
  
  
  
  Shorten Node Names:
  
  If the names of the nodes are excessively long, consider renaming them to shorter versions while still maintaining clarity.
  
  
  
  Adjust Configuration Settings:
  
  If you have the necessary authorizations, you can check the configuration settings for the maximum hierarchy length. This can typically be found in the customizing settings for the Controlling module. If appropriate, you may increase the maximum length allowed.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on hierarchy limits and best practices.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance. They may provide insights specific to your system configuration.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like OKT2 (for cost center hierarchy) or KSH1 (for creating cost centers) to review and modify the hierarchy.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide updates related to hierarchy management.
  Testing: After making changes, ensure to test the hierarchy in a development or quality environment before applying changes to production.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the KU303 error effectively.