How To Fix MG004 - First record in sequential file & not a session record (type 0)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MG - Batch input: material master

• Message number: 004

• Message text: First record in sequential file & not a session record (type 0)

What causes this issue?

The first record in the sequential file must always be a session
record. Otherwise, no session can be created.

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?

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MG004 - First record in sequential file & not a session record (type 0) ?

  The SAP error message MG004, which states "First record in sequential file & not a session record (type 0)," typically occurs during the processing of a sequential file in the context of the SAP system, particularly when dealing with data uploads or batch input sessions.
  Cause:
  The error is generally caused by one of the following issues:
  
  
  Incorrect File Format: The file being processed does not conform to the expected format. The first record of the file should be a session record (type 0), but it is not.
  
  
  File Corruption: The file may be corrupted or improperly generated, leading to unexpected data in the first record.
  
  
  Incorrect Data Preparation: The data preparation process may have been flawed, resulting in a file that does not start with the required session record.
  
  
  Wrong File Path or Name: The file being referenced may not be the intended file, leading to the wrong data being processed.
  
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the MG004 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check File Format: Ensure that the file you are trying to upload is in the correct format. The first record should be a session record (type 0). You may need to regenerate the file or convert it to the correct format.
  
  
  Validate File Content: Open the file in a text editor or appropriate tool to inspect the first few lines. Ensure that the first record is indeed a session record and that the subsequent records follow the expected structure.
  
  
  Recreate the File: If the file appears to be corrupted or incorrectly formatted, recreate it from the source system or data extraction process.
  
  
  Verify File Path and Name: Double-check that the file path and name specified in the SAP transaction are correct and point to the intended file.
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes: If you are using a specific transaction code to upload the file, ensure that you are following the correct steps and that the transaction is set up properly.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific details on the expected file format and structure for the operation you are performing.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common problems.
  
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SM35 (for processing batch input sessions) and SE38 (for executing programs) that may be involved in the process.
  
  
  Error Logs: Review any error logs or detailed messages that may provide additional context about the error.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the MG004 error and implement a suitable solution.