How To Fix ME540 - Message already sent to partner "&"

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ME - Purchasing: General Messages

• Message number: 540

• Message text: Message already sent to partner "&"

What causes this issue?

You are attempting to change or delete a partner to whom a message has
already been sent.

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?

Check that the document really has already been sent. If necessary,
contact the existing partner.
Making this change may lead to misunderstandings, since the document
may then be sent to several partners (e.g. ordering addresses).
INCLUDE NA_T160M LANGUAGE EN

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ME540 - Message already sent to partner "&" ?

  The SAP error message ME540 ("Message already sent to partner '&'") typically occurs in the context of the SAP system when there is an attempt to resend a message (such as a purchase order or other document) to a partner (like a vendor or customer) that has already received that message. This can happen in various scenarios, such as when using EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) or other forms of message communication.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Message Sending: The system has a built-in mechanism to prevent the same message from being sent multiple times to avoid confusion or duplication in processing.
  Message Status: The message may already be marked as sent in the system, and any subsequent attempts to send it again will trigger this error.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues with the configuration of the message types or partner profiles that lead to this error.
  System Errors: Sometimes, system errors or inconsistencies in the database can lead to this message being incorrectly flagged as already sent.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Message Status: Verify the status of the message in the system. You can do this by checking the relevant transaction codes (like WE02 or WE05 for EDI messages) to see if the message was indeed sent and received.
  Review Partner Profiles: Ensure that the partner profiles (transaction code WE20) are correctly configured. Check the settings for the message type and ensure that they allow for the message to be sent again if necessary.
  Use Resend Functionality: If you need to resend the message, look for a specific function or transaction that allows you to do so. In some cases, you may need to change the status of the message or create a new instance of the message.
  Check for System Errors: If you suspect a system error, check the system logs (transaction code SM21) for any related errors or warnings that might provide more context.
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or notes related to the specific message type you are working with for any additional troubleshooting steps or known issues.
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot find a resolution, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME22N (Change Purchase Order), WE02 (Display IDoc), and WE20 (Partner Profiles).
  Message Types: Understand the specific message types you are working with, as different types may have different rules and configurations.
  SAP Notes: Search for SAP Notes related to ME540 for any patches or updates that may address this issue.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the ME540 error in your SAP system.