How To Fix M7172 - Serial number management only allows whole numbers

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: M7 - Inventory Management and Physical Inventory

• Message number: 172

• Message text: Serial number management only allows whole numbers

What causes this issue?

For this material, serial number management is active. This means that
you have to maintain a <DS:GLOS.serial_number>serial number</> for each
individual part. Decimal places are not possible in conjunction with
serial number management.

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?

Change the specified quantity.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message M7172 - Serial number management only allows whole numbers ?

  The SAP error message M7172, which states "Serial number management only allows whole numbers," typically occurs when there is an attempt to enter a serial number that includes decimal points or non-integer values. This error is related to the serial number management functionality in SAP, which is designed to track individual items in inventory and requires that serial numbers be whole numbers.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Serial Number Format: The serial number being entered contains decimal points or is formatted incorrectly (e.g., "123.45" instead of "123").
  Data Entry Error: Users may inadvertently enter a serial number with characters that are not allowed (e.g., letters, special characters).
  Configuration Issues: The system may be configured to expect a specific format for serial numbers, and the input does not match this configuration.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Serial Number Input: Ensure that the serial number being entered is a whole number without any decimal points or invalid characters. For example, use "123" instead of "123.45".
  Review Data Entry Procedures: Educate users on the correct format for entering serial numbers to prevent future errors.
  System Configuration: If the issue persists, check the configuration settings for serial number management in SAP. Ensure that the system is set up to accept the expected format for serial numbers.
  Validation Rules: Implement validation rules in the input screens to prevent users from entering invalid serial numbers.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the SAP Help Portal for detailed information on serial number management and the expected formats.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as IQ01 (Create Serial Number), IQ02 (Change Serial Number), and IQ03 (Display Serial Number) to manage serial numbers effectively.
  User Exits and BAdIs: If custom logic is required, consider using user exits or Business Add-Ins (BAdIs) to enforce specific validation rules for serial numbers.
  
  By ensuring that serial numbers are entered correctly and that the system is configured properly, you can resolve the M7172 error and improve the overall efficiency of serial number management in SAP.