How To Fix ME156 - When passing on a contract number, please also pass on the item

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ME - Purchasing: General Messages

• Message number: 156

• Message text: When passing on a contract number, please also pass on the item

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 ME156 - When passing on a contract number, please also pass on the item ?

  The SAP error message ME156 typically occurs when you are trying to create or process a purchase order (PO) or a contract, and the system requires that both the contract number and the corresponding item number be specified. This error is common in scenarios where a contract is referenced, but the specific item associated with that contract is not provided.
  Cause:
  The error arises due to the following reasons:
  
  Missing Item Number: When you reference a contract in your transaction, the system expects you to also specify the item number associated with that contract.
  Incorrect Data Entry: The item number may not have been entered correctly, or it may have been omitted entirely.
  Contract Structure: The contract may have multiple items, and the system needs to know which specific item you are referring to.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the ME156 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check the Contract: Ensure that the contract number you are using is valid and that it contains items. You can do this by navigating to the contract in the SAP system and reviewing its details.
  
  
  Specify the Item Number: When entering the contract number in your transaction, make sure to also include the corresponding item number. This is usually done in the item details section of the purchase order or contract screen.
  
  
  Review Input Fields: Double-check the input fields in your transaction to ensure that all required fields are filled out correctly, including the item number.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the correct item number, refer to the documentation or guidelines provided by your organization regarding the use of contracts in purchasing.
  
  
  Contact Support: If you continue to experience issues, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or system administrator for further assistance. They may be able to provide insights specific to your organization's configuration.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME22N (Change Purchase Order), and ME31K (Create Contract) to navigate the system effectively.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any updates or patches related to this error message, as there may be specific fixes or enhancements provided by SAP.
  Training: Consider undergoing training on SAP procurement processes if you frequently encounter issues related to contracts and purchase orders.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the ME156 error and proceed with your transaction successfully.