How To Fix MSI_CUST_PRODCAT004 - Material numbers with more than 18 characters possible

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MSI_CUST_PRODCAT - Message Class for Loading to Category Hierarchies

• Message number: 004

• Message text: Material numbers with more than 18 characters possible

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 MSI_CUST_PRODCAT004 - Material numbers with more than 18 characters possible ?

  The SAP error message MSI_CUST_PRODCAT004 indicates that there is an issue related to material numbers exceeding the allowed character limit. In SAP, material numbers are typically limited to a certain number of characters, and this error suggests that the material number you are trying to use exceeds the maximum length allowed.
  Cause:
  
  Material Number Length: The primary cause of this error is that the material number you are trying to create or use exceeds the maximum length of 18 characters. In many SAP systems, the standard length for material numbers is 18 characters.
  Configuration Settings: The system may be configured to allow only a specific format or length for material numbers, and the input does not comply with these settings.
  Data Migration Issues: If you are migrating data from another system, the material numbers from the source system may not conform to the SAP standards.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Material Number: Ensure that the material number you are trying to use is 18 characters or fewer. If it exceeds this limit, you will need to shorten it.
  Review Configuration: If you have control over the system configuration, check the settings related to material number lengths. You may need to adjust these settings if your business process requires longer material numbers.
  Data Validation: Implement validation checks in your data entry or migration processes to ensure that material numbers conform to the required length before they are processed in SAP.
  Use Alternative Identifiers: If you need to work with longer identifiers, consider using alternative fields or identifiers that can accommodate longer strings, such as batch numbers or custom fields.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any updates or patches related to material number handling. Sometimes, specific issues are documented with solutions or workarounds.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation regarding material master data and the specific requirements for material number formats.
  User Exits or BAdIs: If you have specific business requirements that necessitate longer material numbers, consider implementing user exits or Business Add-Ins (BAdIs) to customize the behavior of the material number handling in SAP.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant who can provide further assistance based on your specific system configuration and requirements.