How To Fix ME218 - External document number & already assigned

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ME - Purchasing: General Messages

• Message number: 218

• Message text: External document number & already assigned

What causes this issue?

The number you entered has already been assigned to another document.

How to fix this error?

Please enter a new document number.
INCLUDE BELEGNUMMER_CREATE LANGUAGE EN

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ME218 - External document number & already assigned ?

  The SAP error message ME218 ("External document number & already assigned") typically occurs when you are trying to create or process a purchase order (PO) or a related document that references an external document number (like a vendor invoice or a purchase requisition) that has already been assigned to another document in the system. This can happen in various scenarios, such as when you are trying to create a new purchase order using an external reference that is already in use.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate External Document Number: The external document number you are trying to use is already assigned to another document in the system.
  Incorrect Document Type: The document type you are using may not be compatible with the external document number.
  Data Entry Error: There may be a typographical error in the external document number you are entering.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Existing Assignments: Verify if the external document number is already assigned to another document. You can do this by searching for the document in the relevant transaction (e.g., ME23N for purchase orders).
  Use a Unique External Document Number: If the external document number is indeed in use, you will need to use a different, unique number for your new document.
  Review Document Types: Ensure that you are using the correct document type that corresponds to the external document number you are trying to assign.
  Consult with Your Team: If you are unsure about the external document number or its usage, consult with your procurement or finance team to clarify the correct number to use.
  Check Configuration: If this issue persists, it may be necessary to check the configuration settings in SAP related to external document number assignment. This may require assistance from an SAP administrator or consultant.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME22N (Change Purchase Order), and ME23N (Display Purchase Order).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help files for more information on handling external document numbers and their assignments.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP support team for further assistance.