How To Fix M8_2127 - Differential invoicing: external document numbers are inconsistent

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: M8_2 - Logistics Invoice Verification

• Message number: 127

• Message text: Differential invoicing: external document numbers are inconsistent

What causes this issue?

You have defined checks for external document numbers in Customizing.
The external document number &V1& from the previous invoice, which is
referenced in the credit item of the IDoc or SOA message, does not match
the external document number &V2&.

System Response

The invoice cannot be posted.

How to fix this error?

Ensure that the credit item contains the correct external document
number.
Either deactivate the external document number check for your partner in
Customizing for <LS>Materials Management</>, under <LS>Logistics Invoice
Verification</> -> <LS>EDI</> -> <LS>Enter Program Parameters</> or ask
your supplier to enter the external document number required in the
credit memo item of the IDoc or SOA message.

Procedure for System Administrators

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message M8_2127 - Differential invoicing: external document numbers are inconsistent ?

  The SAP error message M8_2127, which states "Differential invoicing: external document numbers are inconsistent," typically occurs in the context of differential invoicing in SAP, particularly when dealing with invoice verification and processing. This error indicates that there is a mismatch or inconsistency in the external document numbers associated with the invoices being processed.
  Causes:
  
  Mismatch in Document Numbers: The external document numbers (such as invoice numbers) in the differential invoice do not match the expected values in the system.
  Incorrect Configuration: There may be configuration issues in the invoicing or document processing settings that lead to inconsistencies.
  Data Entry Errors: Manual entry errors during invoice creation or processing can lead to discrepancies in document numbers.
  Changes in Document Flow: If there have been changes in the document flow (e.g., cancellation or modification of invoices), it can lead to inconsistencies.
  Multiple Invoices: If multiple invoices are being processed together, and their external document numbers are not aligned, this error can occur.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Verify Document Numbers: Check the external document numbers in the invoice and ensure they match the expected values in the system. Correct any discrepancies.
  Review Configuration Settings: Ensure that the configuration for differential invoicing and document processing is set up correctly. This may involve checking settings in the SAP customizing (SPRO).
  Correct Data Entry: If the error is due to manual entry, ensure that the correct document numbers are entered during the invoice creation process.
  Check Document Flow: Review the document flow for the invoices involved. Ensure that there are no cancellations or modifications that could lead to inconsistencies.
  Consult SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes or updates that may address this specific error. SAP frequently releases notes that provide fixes or workarounds for known issues.
  Use Transaction Codes: Utilize transaction codes like MIRO (Invoice Verification) to review and correct the invoices involved in the error.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for detailed information on differential invoicing and invoice verification processes.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
  Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance, especially if it is impacting business operations.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.