How To Fix MGV020 - Length material number + version number > total material number length

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MGV - Messages for material versions

• Message number: 020

• Message text: Length material number + version number > total material number length

What causes this issue?

The sum of the following data is larger than the length of the entire
material number:
Length of the material number
Length of the version number
Place for the separator material number / Version number (3 characters)

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?

The entire material number is made up by stringing together the
material number, separator material number / version number and version
number.
The material number or version number can therefore only be as long as
you have specified. The length of the entire material number cannot
exceed the set value.
Example:
Material number:,,,,M4711,,(Length: 5 characters)
Separator:,,,, - ,,(Length: 3 characters incl. 2 empty spaces)
Version number:,,,,23,,(Length: 2 characters)
Length of the entire material number:
M4711 - 23 (Length: 10 characters)

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MGV020 - Length material number + version number > total material number length ?

  The SAP error message MGV020 indicates that the combined length of the material number and the version number exceeds the maximum allowed length for material numbers in the system. This typically occurs in scenarios where version management is enabled for materials, and the system is trying to process a material number that, when combined with its version, exceeds the defined length limit.
  Cause:
  
  Material Number Length: In SAP, the standard length for a material number is usually 18 characters. If versioning is enabled, the version number is appended to the material number, which can lead to exceeding the maximum length.
  Configuration Settings: The system may be configured in such a way that the total length of the material number and version exceeds the allowed limit.
  Data Entry Error: There may be a mistake in how the material number or version is being entered or processed.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Material Number and Version: Ensure that the material number and version being used do not exceed the maximum length when combined. If the material number is already at the maximum length, consider using a shorter version number or revising the material number.
  Review Configuration: Check the configuration settings in the material master data to ensure that the length settings for material numbers and versions are appropriate for your business needs.
  Data Validation: Implement validation checks in your data entry processes to prevent users from entering material numbers and versions that exceed the allowed length.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or consult with your SAP Basis or technical team to understand the specific limits and configurations in your SAP environment.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Material Master Data: Understanding how material master data is structured in SAP can help in troubleshooting issues related to material numbers and versions.
  Version Management: Familiarize yourself with how version management works in SAP, especially if your organization uses it for materials.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance on handling material numbers and versions.
  
  If the issue persists after checking these aspects, it may be beneficial to engage with SAP support or your internal SAP team for further assistance.