How To Fix ME186 - Document &, item &, already being processed

ME186 - Overview

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ME - Purchasing: General Messages

• Message number: 186

• Message text: Document &, item &, already being processed

What causes this issue?

You cannot open the chosen document at present because either it is
already being processed by another user or the system is currently
saving data from the processing of the document.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Try again in a few minutes.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ME186 - Document &, item &, already being processed ?

  The SAP error message ME186 ("Document &, item &, already being processed") typically occurs in the context of purchasing documents, such as purchase orders or purchase requisitions. This error indicates that the specified document and item are currently being processed by another user or transaction, which prevents you from making changes or performing certain actions on that document.
  Causes:
  
  Concurrent Processing: Another user is currently editing or processing the same document/item.
  Background Jobs: A background job is running that is locking the document/item.
  Transaction Lock: The document/item is locked due to a previous transaction that has not been completed or has encountered an error.
  Database Lock: There may be a database-level lock on the document/item due to ongoing operations.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Wait and Retry: If another user is processing the document, wait for them to complete their task and then try again.
  Check for Locks: Use transaction codes like SM12 (to check for locks) to see if there are