How To Fix MDU017 - Item &4 (group &3, lot &1, appl. &2) exists already

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MDU - Master Data Update: Master Data Lot

• Message number: 017

• Message text: Item &4 (group &3, lot &1, appl. &2) exists already

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.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MDU017 - Item &4 (group &3, lot &1, appl. &2) exists already ?

  The SAP error message MDU017 indicates that there is a duplicate entry for a specific item in the system. This error typically occurs in the context of material management or inventory management when trying to create or update a record that already exists. The message provides specific details about the item, including the item number, group, lot, and application.
  Cause:
  The error is caused by an attempt to create or modify a record (such as a material document, inventory record, or similar) that already exists in the system. This can happen due to:
  
  Duplicate Data Entry: The user may be trying to enter data that has already been recorded.
  Data Migration Issues: During data migration or upload processes, duplicate records may inadvertently be created.
  Incorrect Configuration: The system may be configured in a way that allows for duplicate entries under certain conditions.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the MDU017 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Records: Verify if the item (lot, application, etc.) already exists in the system. You can do this by searching for the item using transaction codes like MM03 (Display Material) or MB52 (List Warehouse Stocks on Hand).
  
  
  Review Input Data: Ensure that the data you are trying to enter is correct and does not duplicate existing records. If you are trying to create a new record, make sure that the combination of item, lot, and application is unique.
  
  
  Modify Existing Record: If the record already exists and you need to update it, use the appropriate transaction to modify the existing entry instead of creating a new one.
  
  
  Data Cleanup: If duplicates are found due to data migration or other processes, consider cleaning up the data to remove duplicates or consolidate records as necessary.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for specific guidance related to your system configuration and the context in which the error occurred.
  
  
  Error Handling in Custom Programs: If this error arises from a custom program or interface, ensure that the logic checks for existing records before attempting to create new ones.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes for material management, such as MM01 (Create Material), MM02 (Change Material), and MM03 (Display Material).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to create or modify records in the relevant modules.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the MDU017 error and take appropriate action to resolve it.