How To Fix MM401 - &: & retention period not yet exceeded

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MM - Messages for material master maintenance and Customizing

• Message number: 401

• Message text: &: & retention period not yet exceeded

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MM401 - &: & retention period not yet exceeded ?

  The SAP error message MM401, which states that "retention period not yet exceeded," typically occurs in the context of inventory management and material master data. This error indicates that a certain retention period for a material has not yet been reached, preventing certain actions from being performed, such as the deletion of a material or the posting of a goods movement.
  Cause:
  
  Retention Period Not Met: The primary cause of this error is that the retention period defined for the material has not yet expired. This retention period is set in the material master data and is intended to prevent premature deletion or modification of material records.
  Configuration Settings: The retention period is configured in the system settings, and it may not align with the business processes or requirements.
  Material Status: The material may have a status that restricts certain actions until the retention period is exceeded.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Retention Period: Review the material master data for the specific material in question. Check the retention period settings to understand when it is set to expire.
  Wait for Expiration: If the retention period is still valid, you may need to wait until it expires before performing the desired action.
  Adjust Retention Period: If the retention period is too long or not aligned with business needs, consider adjusting it in the material master data. This may require appropriate authorization and should be done in accordance with company policies.
  Consult with SAP Support: If you believe the retention period is set incorrectly or if you need further assistance, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting SAP documentation for guidance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Material Master Data: The material master contains all the information related to a material, including its retention period, which can be found in the relevant views (e.g., Basic Data, Purchasing, Accounting).
  Transaction Codes: You can use transaction codes like MM02 (Change Material) to view and modify material master data.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to this error message, as there may be specific patches or recommendations provided by SAP.
  Business Processes: Ensure that the retention period aligns with your organization's business processes and compliance requirements.
  
  By understanding the cause and following the suggested solutions, you should be able to address the MM401 error effectively.