How To Fix ME474 - Specify a valid time period

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ME - Purchasing: General Messages

• Message number: 474

• Message text: Specify a valid time period

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ME474 - Specify a valid time period ?

  The SAP error message ME474 ("Specify a valid time period") typically occurs in the context of purchasing documents, such as purchase requisitions or purchase orders, when the system expects a valid time frame for certain operations, such as scheduling or delivery dates.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Date Range: The time period specified in the purchasing document is either missing or does not conform to the expected format or logical sequence (e.g., the end date is earlier than the start date).
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the system that are not aligned with the expected time periods for the purchasing documents.
  Missing Data: Required fields related to time periods may not have been filled out correctly, leading to the error.
  System Settings: The system may have specific settings that restrict the time periods that can be entered based on business rules or other criteria.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Dates: Review the dates entered in the purchasing document. Ensure that the start and end dates are valid and logically sequenced (i.e., the start date should be before the end date).
  Fill Required Fields: Ensure that all mandatory fields related to time periods are filled out correctly. This may include delivery dates, scheduling dates, etc.
  Review Configuration: If you have access, check the configuration settings in the SAP system related to purchasing and time periods. Ensure that they are set up correctly according to your organization's requirements.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on the expected formats and values for time periods in purchasing documents.
  Contact Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert who can provide more detailed assistance based on your specific system configuration.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME51N (Create Purchase Requisition), etc., where this error might occur.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message, as they may provide additional insights or patches that address the issue.
  User Training: Ensure that users involved in creating or managing purchasing documents are trained on the correct procedures and requirements for entering time periods.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the ME474 error in SAP.