How To Fix M8189 - Bill of lading allocation is only defined for delivery cost invoices

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: M8 - Invoice Verification/Valuation

• Message number: 189

• Message text: Bill of lading allocation is only defined for delivery cost invoices

What causes this issue?

You have entered a bill of lading, but have not selected the <LS>Planned
delivery costs</> field.
<LS>Bill of lading </> allocation is only defined for invoices for
delivery costs.

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?

If you are entering an invoice for delivery costs, select the field
<LS>Planned delivery costs</>.
Otherwise delete the bill of lading you have entered and enter another
allocation criterium.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message M8189 - Bill of lading allocation is only defined for delivery cost invoices ?

  The SAP error message M8189, which states "Bill of lading allocation is only defined for delivery cost invoices," typically occurs in the context of logistics and invoicing within the SAP system. This error indicates that there is an issue with the allocation of a bill of lading to an invoice that is not classified as a delivery cost invoice.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Invoice Type: The invoice you are trying to process is not recognized as a delivery cost invoice. This can happen if the invoice type is set incorrectly in the system.
  Configuration Issues: The system may not be configured to allow bill of lading allocations for the type of invoice you are working with.
  Missing Data: There may be missing or incorrect data in the invoice or delivery document that prevents the system from recognizing it as a delivery cost invoice.
  Document Flow Issues: The document flow may not be properly established, leading to inconsistencies in how the system processes the invoice.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Invoice Type: Ensure that the invoice you are trying to process is indeed a delivery cost invoice. You may need to verify the invoice type in the document.
  Review Configuration: Check the configuration settings in the SAP system related to billing and delivery costs. This may involve looking at the settings in the SPRO transaction under Logistics Execution or Sales and Distribution.
  Verify Document Flow: Ensure that the document flow is correct and that all necessary documents (like delivery notes) are properly linked to the invoice.
  Data Validation: Review the data in the invoice and delivery documents for any inconsistencies or missing information that could be causing the error.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on handling bill of lading allocations and the types of invoices that are supported.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as VF01 (Create Billing Document), VL01N (Create Outbound Delivery), and others that may be involved in the process.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary roles and authorizations to perform the actions related to billing and delivery processing.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant who can provide deeper insights into the specific configuration and setup of your SAP environment.