How To Fix MA039 - Period starts before planning starts

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MA - Sales and Operations Planning

• Message number: 039

• Message text: Period starts before planning starts

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MA039 - Period starts before planning starts ?

  The SAP error message MA039 ("Period starts before planning starts") typically occurs in the context of Material Requirements Planning (MRP) or when working with planning data in SAP. This error indicates that the period you are trying to use for planning or data entry starts before the defined planning start date in the system.
  Cause:
  
  Planning Start Date: The planning start date is set in the material master or in the planning parameters, and the period you are trying to access is earlier than this date.
  Incorrect Period Selection: You may have selected a period for planning that does not align with the defined planning horizon.
  Master Data Configuration: The configuration of the material master or planning settings may not be aligned with the intended planning periods.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Planning Start Date:
  
  Go to the material master (transaction code MM03) and check the MRP views to find the planning start date.
  Ensure that the period you are trying to plan falls within the allowed planning horizon.
  
  
  
  Adjust Planning Parameters:
  
  If necessary, adjust the planning parameters in the material master or in the MRP settings to extend the planning horizon.
  You can do this in the MRP view of the material master or through the relevant configuration settings in the MRP area.
  
  
  
  Change Period Selection:
  
  If you are using a report or transaction that allows you to select periods, ensure that you are selecting a period that is valid and within the planning horizon.
  
  
  
  Review MRP Configuration:
  
  Check the configuration settings in the MRP area (transaction code OMD0) to ensure that the planning settings are correctly defined.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help files related to MRP and planning to understand the implications of the planning start date and how it affects your planning activities.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: MM03 (Display Material), MD01 (MRP Run), OMD0 (MRP Area Configuration).
  MRP Views: Familiarize yourself with the MRP views in the material master, as they contain critical information regarding planning parameters.
  Planning Horizon: Understand the concept of planning horizon in SAP, which defines the time frame for which planning can be performed.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues or provide additional guidance related to this error message.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the MA039 error and continue with your planning activities in SAP.