How To Fix ME408 - Please enter either material or indicator "without material"

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ME - Purchasing: General Messages

• Message number: 408

• Message text: Please enter either material or indicator "without material"

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 ME408 - Please enter either material or indicator "without material" ?

  The SAP error message ME408 ("Please enter either material or indicator 'without material'") typically occurs in the context of purchasing documents, such as purchase requisitions or purchase orders, when the system expects a material number to be entered but it is missing or not properly specified.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Material Number: The most common cause of this error is that the user has not entered a material number in the relevant field.
  Incorrect Indicator: If the user is trying to create a document without a material (for example, a service or a non-stock item), the indicator "without material" must be set, but it is not.
  Field Configuration: The configuration of the purchasing document type may require a material number to be entered, and the system is enforcing this rule.
  User Input Error: The user may have inadvertently left the material field blank or entered an invalid value.
  
  Solution:
  
  Enter Material Number: If you are creating a document that requires a material, ensure that you enter a valid material number in the appropriate field.
  Use 'Without Material' Indicator: If you are creating a document for a service or a non-material item, make sure to select the indicator for "without material" (this is often a checkbox or a specific field in the document).
  Check Document Type Settings: Review the configuration of the purchasing document type in the SAP system to ensure that it aligns with your business requirements. You may need to consult with your SAP administrator or functional consultant.
  Validate Input: Double-check your input for any typos or errors that may have led to the system not recognizing the material number.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: This error can occur in various transaction codes related to purchasing, such as ME51N (Create Purchase Requisition), ME21N (Create Purchase Order), etc.
  Material Master: Ensure that the material number you are trying to enter exists in the material master and is active.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to create or modify purchasing documents.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes or documentation that may provide additional insights or solutions related to this error.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or refer to SAP documentation for further troubleshooting steps.