How To Fix MG018 - The material number & is longer than allowed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MG - Batch input: material master

• Message number: 018

• Message text: The material number & is longer than allowed

What causes this issue?

You wanted to transfer a material number that is longer than the length
set in Customizing.

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?

You have the following options:
Transfer a shorter material number.
Ask your system administrator to increase the length allowed in
Customizing for the <LS>Material Master</> in
<DS:SIMG.SIMG_CFMENUOLMSOMSL>Define output format of material
numbers</>. The maximum length allowed is 18 characters.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MG018 - The material number & is longer than allowed ?

  The SAP error message MG018 ("The material number & is longer than allowed") typically occurs when the material number you are trying to enter exceeds the maximum length defined in the system settings. This error is common in various transactions related to material management, such as creating or changing material master records.
  Cause:
  
  Material Number Length Exceeded: The material number you are trying to use exceeds the maximum length allowed by the system. In SAP, the standard length for material numbers is usually 18 characters, but this can vary based on system configuration.
  Configuration Settings: The settings in the material master configuration may have been altered, leading to a different maximum length for material numbers.
  Data Entry Error: There may be a typographical error or an incorrect format in the material number being entered.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Material Number Length: Ensure that the material number you are trying to enter does not exceed the maximum length allowed. If it does, you will need to shorten it.
  Review Configuration Settings: If you have access to the configuration settings, check the material number length settings in the relevant configuration (Transaction Code: SPRO). Look for the settings under:
  
  Logistics > Material Management > Material Master > Basic Settings > Material Number
  
  
  Use Valid Material Numbers: If you are using a system that has specific naming conventions or formats for material numbers, ensure that you adhere to those conventions.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to your organization's documentation or SAP help resources for specific guidelines on material number formats and lengths.
  Contact SAP Support: If you believe the configuration is correct and you are still encountering this error, consider reaching out to your SAP support team for further assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Common transaction codes related to material management include MM01 (Create Material), MM02 (Change Material), and MM03 (Display Material).
  Material Master Data: Understanding how material master data is structured and managed in SAP can help prevent such errors.
  User Exits and BAdIs: If your organization has custom developments, check if there are any user exits or BAdIs that might affect material number handling.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the MG018 error and successfully manage your material numbers in SAP.