How To Fix MD_SUBSTN013 - Substitute cannot be blank

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MD_SUBSTN - Messages for Master Data Substitution

• Message number: 013

• Message text: Substitute cannot be blank

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 MD_SUBSTN013 - Substitute cannot be blank ?

  The SAP error message MD_SUBSTN013: Substitute cannot be blank typically occurs in the context of material management, particularly when dealing with substitution or alternative materials in the SAP system. This error indicates that a required field for a substitute material is not filled in, which is necessary for the system to process the substitution correctly.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Substitute Material: The most common cause of this error is that the substitute material field is left blank when trying to create or modify a substitution record.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues with the configuration of the material master or the substitution settings in the system.
  Data Entry Error: Users may inadvertently skip entering the substitute material during data entry.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check the Substitute Material Field:
  
  Ensure that the substitute material field is filled in with a valid material number. This can be done in the relevant transaction (e.g., MM02 for material master maintenance).
  
  
  
  Create or Update Substitution Records:
  
  If you are trying to create a new substitution record, make sure to enter a valid substitute material in the appropriate field.
  If you are modifying an existing record, ensure that the substitute material is not blank.
  
  
  
  Review Material Master Data:
  
  Verify that the substitute material exists in the system and is active. You can check this using transaction codes like MM03 (Display Material) to ensure the material is correctly set up.
  
  
  
  Check Configuration Settings:
  
  If the issue persists, review the configuration settings related to material substitution in the SAP system. This may involve checking the relevant customizing settings in SPRO (SAP Project Reference Object).
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation or Support:
  
  If you are unsure about the correct substitute material or how to configure it, consult SAP documentation or reach out to your SAP support team for assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Common transaction codes related to material management include MM01 (Create Material), MM02 (Change Material), and MM03 (Display Material).
  Material Master: Understanding the structure of the material master and how substitution works within it is crucial for troubleshooting this error.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address known issues or provide additional guidance on handling substitution errors.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the MD_SUBSTN013 error and ensure that the substitute material is correctly defined in your SAP system.