How To Fix MM_PUR_SES161 - Material &1 of purchase order item &2 uses serial numbers.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MM_PUR_SES -

• Message number: 161

• Message text: Material &1 of purchase order item &2 uses serial numbers.

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MM_PUR_SES161 - Material &1 of purchase order item &2 uses serial numbers. ?

  The SAP error message MM_PUR_SES161 indicates that a material in a purchase order item is configured to use serial numbers, but there may be an issue with how the serial numbers are being handled or recorded in the system. This error typically arises in the context of materials that are managed with serial numbers, which means that each individual item of that material is tracked separately.
  Cause:
  
  Serial Number Management: The material in question is set up to require serial number management, but the purchase order item does not have the necessary serial number information provided.
  Missing Serial Numbers: The system expects serial numbers to be assigned to the items being received, but they are either not provided or incorrectly entered.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the material master or purchase order that are not aligned with the serial number requirements.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Material Master: Verify the material master settings for the material in question. Ensure that the serial number management is correctly configured.
  
  Go to the material master (transaction code MM03) and check the "Sales: General/Plant" or "Plant Data/Storage" views to confirm that serial number management is enabled.
  
  
  
  Update Purchase Order: If the purchase order is missing serial number information, you may need to update the purchase order to include the required serial numbers.
  
  You can do this by going to the purchase order (transaction code ME22N) and adding the serial numbers in the appropriate fields.
  
  
  
  Create Serial Numbers: If you are receiving items that require serial numbers, ensure that you create and assign serial numbers during the goods receipt process.
  
  Use transaction code MIGO to perform the goods receipt and enter the serial numbers when prompted.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on handling serial numbers in your version of SAP.
  
  
  Check User Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to enter or modify serial numbers in the system.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Serial Number Management: This feature is used for materials that require tracking of individual items, such as electronics or high-value items.
  Goods Receipt Process: Understanding the goods receipt process in SAP is crucial for managing materials with serial numbers.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues or bugs related to serial number management.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in materials management (MM) for further assistance.