How To Fix MH017 - The reference material has a different material type

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MH - Maintain Material Master Data (Retail)

• Message number: 017

• Message text: The reference material has a different material type

What causes this issue?

The reference material has a different material type than the material
to be created.

System Response

If you have not entered the reference material directly, the reference
material from the <DS:GLOS.material_group>material group</> is used as
the reference material.

How to fix this error?

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MH017 - The reference material has a different material type ?

  The SAP error message MH017, which states "The reference material has a different material type," typically occurs in the context of material master data management. This error arises when you attempt to create or change a material that references another material (for example, during the creation of a BOM or when using a reference material in a production order) but the material types of the two materials do not match.
  Cause:
  
  Material Type Mismatch: The primary cause of this error is that the material you are trying to create or modify is referencing a material of a different type. For example, you might be trying to reference a finished product material type (like FERT) while the new material is of a raw material type (like ROH).
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the material type definitions that restrict certain operations between different material types.
  Incorrect Reference: The reference material may not be appropriate for the operation you are trying to perform.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Material Types: Verify the material types of both the reference material and the new material you are trying to create or modify. Ensure they are compatible.
  
  You can check the material type in the material master record (transaction code MM03).
  
  
  
  Use Compatible Material Types: If you need to reference a material, ensure that the material types are compatible. If necessary, create a new material of the correct type that matches the reference material.
  
  
  Adjust Configuration: If you have the necessary permissions, you may need to adjust the configuration settings in the material type definitions to allow for the desired operations. This typically requires access to the SPRO configuration settings.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for specific guidelines on material types and their compatibility.
  
  
  Error Handling: If you are unsure about the changes, it may be beneficial to consult with a functional consultant or an SAP expert to ensure that the changes do not affect other processes.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Material Types: In SAP, material types define the attributes and behavior of materials. Common material types include FERT (finished goods), ROH (raw materials), HALB (semi-finished goods), and others.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as MM01 (Create Material), MM02 (Change Material), and MM03 (Display Material) for managing material master data.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message, as there may be known issues or fixes provided by SAP.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the MH017 error and proceed with your material management tasks in SAP.