How To Fix M8217 - & document lines exceeded

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: M8 - Invoice Verification/Valuation

• Message number: 217

• Message text: & document lines exceeded

What causes this issue?

You have choosen either <LS>Simulate</> or <LS>Post</>.

System Response

The system has established that the document contains more than &V1&
items. This is not possible.

How to fix this error?

You have to split up the invoice and post it in more than one document.

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

RESET N1.
Since you have already entered too many items, select
<LS>Correction on/off</> and enter zeros in the quantity and value
fields for some of the items. Using the <LS>Simulate</> function, you
will then be able to tell if the number of document items is below the
limit.
After you have posted this invoice, enter another invoice for the items
whose quantities and values you changed to zero.
RESET N1.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message M8217 - & document lines exceeded ?

  The SAP error message M8217, which indicates that "document lines exceeded," typically occurs when you are trying to create or process a document (such as a purchase order, sales order, or invoice) that exceeds the maximum number of line items allowed in the system. This limit is set to ensure system performance and manageability.
  Cause:
  
  Line Item Limit Exceeded: Each document type in SAP has a predefined limit on the number of line items it can contain. If you attempt to add more line items than this limit, you will encounter the M8217 error.
  Configuration Settings: The maximum number of line items can be configured in the system settings, and it may vary based on the specific SAP module or version you are using.
  
  Solution:
  
  Reduce Line Items: Review the document you are trying to create or process and see if you can reduce the number of line items. This may involve consolidating items or splitting the document into multiple smaller documents.
  Check Configuration: If you frequently encounter this error and need to process documents with a high number of line items, consult with your SAP administrator or technical team to check the configuration settings. They may be able to increase the maximum number of line items allowed for that document type.
  Use Batch Processing: If applicable, consider using batch processing or grouping similar items together to stay within the line item limit.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on the document type you are working with, as different modules may have different limits and configurations.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any updates or patches related to this error message. Sometimes, SAP releases notes that provide additional context or solutions for specific issues.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that may help you manage or troubleshoot document processing, such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), VA01 (Create Sales Order), etc.
  Performance Considerations: Be aware that having a very high number of line items in a single document can impact system performance, so it's generally advisable to keep documents manageable.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to engage with SAP support or your internal IT team for further assistance.