How To Fix L3A018 - Difference indicator not allowed for putaway of HU

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: L3A - Messages on Transfer Order Kernel

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Difference indicator not allowed for putaway of HU

What causes this issue?

The difference indicator entered is not allowed during putaway of a
handling unit. The message is output in the two following situations:
The goods receipt posting has already occured for the handling units to
be put away, and the difference should be posted to the source storage
bin, or
the handling unit to be put away is not yet posted for goods receipt,
and the difference should not be posted to the source storage bin.

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

System Response

The difference indicator entered is rejected by the system.

How to fix this error?

If the goods receipt has already been posted for the handling unit to
be put away, the difference must not be posted to the source storage
bin. If the goods receipt has not yet been posted for the handling
unit, the difference quantity can only be posted from the source
storage bin.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message L3A018 - Difference indicator not allowed for putaway of HU ?

  The SAP error message L3A018, which states "Difference indicator not allowed for putaway of HU," typically occurs in the context of handling units (HUs) during the putaway process in warehouse management. This error indicates that there is a discrepancy or a difference indicator set for the handling unit that is not permitted during the putaway operation.
  Cause:
  
  Difference Indicator: The handling unit may have a difference indicator set, which usually signifies that there is a discrepancy between the expected quantity and the actual quantity of goods.
  Configuration Settings: The system configuration may not allow for handling units with difference indicators to be processed during putaway.
  Stock Type: The stock type associated with the handling unit may not permit putaway if there are discrepancies.
  Warehouse Management Settings: Specific settings in the Warehouse Management (WM) module may restrict the handling of HUs with discrepancies.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Handling Unit Status: Review the status of the handling unit in question. If it has a difference indicator, you may need to resolve the discrepancy before proceeding with the putaway.
  Adjust Inventory: If there is a difference in quantity, consider adjusting the inventory to match the expected quantity. This may involve performing a physical inventory count or adjusting the stock in the system.
  Review Configuration: Check the configuration settings in the Warehouse Management module to see if there are restrictions on handling units with difference indicators. You may need to adjust these settings if appropriate.
  Use Alternative Putaway Methods: If the handling unit cannot be put away due to the difference indicator, consider using alternative methods to handle the stock, such as placing it in a temporary storage location until the discrepancy is resolved.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for specific guidance related to your system configuration and processes.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Handling Units (HUs): In SAP, handling units are used to manage and track inventory at a more granular level, often representing physical packaging.
  Warehouse Management (WM): This module in SAP is responsible for managing warehouse operations, including inventory management, putaway, picking, and shipping.
  Difference Indicators: These are used in inventory management to indicate discrepancies between expected and actual stock levels, often requiring resolution before further processing.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to engage with your SAP support team or consult SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.