How To Fix M_003 - Material numbers provided in equivalent fields differ

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: M_ - Messages for material field length extension mapping

• Message number: 003

• Message text: Material numbers provided in equivalent fields differ

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message M_003 - Material numbers provided in equivalent fields differ ?

  The SAP error message M_003, which states "Material numbers provided in equivalent fields differ," typically occurs in the context of material management and inventory processes. This error indicates that there is a mismatch between the material numbers that are expected in certain fields during a transaction or process.
  Cause:
  
  Data Entry Error: The most common cause is a simple data entry mistake where different material numbers are entered in fields that are supposed to contain equivalent or the same material numbers.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues with the configuration of material types or settings in the system that lead to discrepancies.
  Master Data Issues: The material master data may not be consistent, leading to differences in the equivalent fields.
  Transaction Type: The error can occur during specific transactions, such as goods movements, where the system expects certain material numbers to match.
  User Authorization: Sometimes, users may not have the necessary authorizations to view or modify certain material numbers, leading to confusion.
  
  Solution:
  
  Verify Input Data: Check the material numbers entered in the transaction. Ensure that they are correct and match the expected values.
  Check Configuration: Review the configuration settings related to material management in SAP. Ensure that the settings for material types and equivalent fields are correctly defined.
  Review Material Master Data: Inspect the material master records for the materials involved. Ensure that they are set up correctly and that there are no discrepancies.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on the transaction you are working with.
  User Training: If the issue is due to user error, consider providing additional training to users on how to correctly enter material numbers and understand the system's requirements.
  Contact Support: If the issue persists and cannot be resolved through the above steps, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with SAP experts for further assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with the transaction codes related to material management, such as MIGO (Goods Movement) or MB1A (Goods Withdrawal).
  Material Types: Understand the different material types in SAP and how they relate to the equivalent fields.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address known issues or bugs related to this error message.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that users have the appropriate roles and authorizations to perform the transactions they are attempting.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the M_003 error and implement a solution to resolve it.