M8718 - Enter an external document number

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: M8 - Invoice Verification/Valuation

• Message number: 718

• Message text: Enter an external document number

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message M8718 - Enter an external document number ?

  The SAP error message M8718, which states "Enter an external document number," typically occurs in the context of document processing, such as when creating or posting a material document, invoice, or other transactions that require an external reference.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when the system expects an external document number to be entered, but it is either missing or not provided in the relevant field. This can happen in various scenarios, such as:
  
  Missing Input: The user did not fill in the required field for the external document number.
  Configuration Issues: The system may be configured to require an external document number for certain transactions, and the configuration may not align with the current process.
  User Role/Authorization: The user may not have the necessary permissions to enter or view the external document number field.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the M8718 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Enter the External Document Number: Ensure that you fill in the required field for the external document number. This is often a mandatory field in the transaction you are trying to execute.
  
  
  Check Configuration: If you are consistently encountering this error, check the configuration settings in the relevant module (e.g., MM, SD, FI) to see if the external document number is set as a mandatory field. You may need to consult with your SAP administrator or functional consultant to adjust the settings if necessary.
  
  
  Review User Permissions: Ensure that your user role has the necessary permissions to enter the external document number. If you suspect a permissions issue, contact your SAP security administrator.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review the SAP documentation or help files related to the specific transaction you are working with to understand the requirements for the external document number.
  
  
  Error Logs: If the issue persists, check the system logs or error messages for additional context that may help identify the root cause.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error can occur in various transaction codes, such as MIGO (Goods Movement), MIRO (Invoice Verification), or others that involve document processing.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on the importance of entering external document numbers and the implications of missing this information in transactions.
  
  If the problem continues after following these steps, it may be beneficial to reach out to SAP support or your internal IT team for further assistance.