How To Fix MAT_MESSAGES018 - Material '&1' already exists.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MAT_MESSAGES -

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Material '&1' already exists.

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 MAT_MESSAGES018 - Material '&1' already exists. ?

  The SAP error message MAT_MESSAGES018 indicates that the material you are trying to create or add already exists in the system. This error typically occurs during the material master creation process when you attempt to create a material with a material number that is already in use.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Material Number: The most common cause is that the material number you are trying to create is already assigned to another material in the system.
  Incorrect Input: You may have entered the material number incorrectly, leading to a conflict with an existing material.
  Material Type Restrictions: The material type you are using may have specific restrictions or configurations that prevent the creation of a new material with the same number.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Materials: 
  
  Use transaction code MM03 (Display Material) to check if the material number already exists in the system.
  If it does exist, you may need to use that existing material instead of creating a new one.
  
  
  
  Use a Different Material Number: 
  
  If you need to create a new material, choose a different material number that does not conflict with existing materials.
  
  
  
  Review Input Data: 
  
  Double-check the data you are entering to ensure there are no typos or errors in the material number.
  
  
  
  Consult with Your Team: 
  
  If you are unsure about the material number or its usage, consult with your team or the person responsible for material management in your organization.
  
  
  
  Check Material Type Configuration: 
  
  If you suspect that the material type may be causing the issue, review the configuration settings for the material type in transaction code OMH0 or consult with your SAP configuration team.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  MM01: Create Material
  MM02: Change Material
  MM03: Display Material
  MMR1: Create Material (with reference)
  
  
  
  Material Master Data: Understanding how material master data is structured in SAP can help prevent such errors. Familiarize yourself with the different views and data fields associated with material master records.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific issues or patches related to material creation errors. You can search for relevant notes in the SAP Support Portal.
  
  
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to create or modify material master records in SAP.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and successfully manage your material master data in SAP.