How To Fix MPN01038 - The output length for the material number is too small

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MPN01 - MPN Message: Material Master / customizing

• Message number: 038

• Message text: The output length for the material number is too small

What causes this issue?

The combination of manufacturer part number and external manufacturer
is larger than the current output length for the material number. If
the output length of the material number is again set to a value that
is not long enough to use the manufacturer part number and external
manufacturer, the material number can no longer be input.

System Response

In all material fields, the internal material number will be output or
will have to be input.

How to fix this error?

Change your material master records so that the manufacturer part
number is unique or abbreviate the manufacturer part number.

Procedure for System Administrators

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 MPN01038 - The output length for the material number is too small ?

  The SAP error message MPN01038, which states "The output length for the material number is too small," typically occurs when the system is unable to display or process a material number due to its length exceeding the defined output length in the relevant configuration or program.
  Cause:
  
  Material Number Length: The material number in SAP can have a maximum length of 18 characters. If the system is configured to display or process material numbers with a shorter length, it may trigger this error.
  Field Configuration: The output field for the material number in the report or transaction you are using may not be wide enough to accommodate the full length of the material number.
  Custom Programs: If you are using a custom program or report, it may not have been designed to handle the full length of the material number.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Field Length: Review the field length settings in the relevant transaction or report. Ensure that the field designated for the material number can accommodate at least 18 characters.
  Adjust Output Settings: If you are using a standard SAP report, check if there are settings or configurations that allow you to adjust the output length for the material number.
  Modify Custom Programs: If the error arises from a custom program, you may need to modify the program code to ensure that the material number field is defined with the correct length.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this issue. Sometimes, SAP releases patches or notes that provide solutions for specific error messages.
  Consult Documentation: Review the documentation for the specific transaction or report to understand any limitations regarding material number lengths.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Material Master Data: Ensure that the material master data is correctly maintained and that the material numbers are within the expected length.
  SAP Version: The behavior may vary depending on the version of SAP you are using, so ensure that you are referencing the correct documentation for your version.
  User Exits and BAdIs: If you are using user exits or Business Add-Ins (BAdIs), check if any of these customizations are affecting the output length of the material number.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis or ABAP team for further investigation and resolution.