How To Fix MH018 - The reference material has a different material group

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 018

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

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MH018 - The reference material has a different material group ?

  The SAP error message MH018 indicates that there is a mismatch between the material group of the reference material and the material group of the material you are trying to create or modify. This typically occurs in scenarios where you are trying to create a new material based on an existing reference material, but the material groups do not match.
  Cause:
  
  Material Group Mismatch: The reference material has been assigned to a different material group than the one you are trying to assign to the new material.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the material master that enforce specific rules regarding material groups.
  Data Entry Errors: Incorrect data entry when creating or modifying the material master.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Material Groups: Verify the material group of the reference material and the material you are trying to create. You can do this by navigating to the material master record in SAP.
  
  Use transaction code MM03 to display the material master of the reference material.
  Check the material group in the Basic Data view.
  
  
  
  Change Material Group: If the material group of the new material is incorrect, you can change it to match the reference material's group.
  
  Use transaction code MM01 to create a new material and ensure that the material group matches the reference material.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration: If the material groups are set up in a way that restricts certain combinations, you may need to review the configuration settings in the material master data. This may require assistance from your SAP configuration team.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review any relevant documentation or guidelines provided by your organization regarding material master data management to ensure compliance with internal processes.
  
  
  Error Handling: If you are unsure about the changes, consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant to ensure that the changes do not affect other processes.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Material Master Data: Understanding the structure and importance of material master data in SAP is crucial. The material group is a key attribute that categorizes materials for reporting and processing.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as MM01 (Create Material), MM02 (Change Material), and MM03 (Display Material).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or additional guidance related to error MH018.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to create or modify material master records.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and successfully create or modify the material in SAP.