How To Fix MW164 - Material & is not a generic material

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MW - Messages IS-R / Allocation Tables

• Message number: 164

• Message text: Material & is not a generic material

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 MW164 - Material & is not a generic material ?

  The SAP error message MW164 ("Material & is not a generic material") typically occurs when you are trying to perform an operation that requires a generic material, but the specified material is not defined as such in the system. This error is often encountered in the context of handling materials that are part of a generic material group, such as when dealing with variant configuration or when trying to create a material document for a generic material.
  Cause:
  
  Material Type: The material you are trying to use is not defined as a generic material in the system. Generic materials are typically used in scenarios where multiple variants of a product exist.
  Configuration Settings: The material may not have been set up correctly in the material master, or it may not have the necessary attributes to be classified as a generic material.
  Incorrect Transaction: You may be using a transaction or function that specifically requires a generic material, but the material you are using does not meet the criteria.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Material Master Data:
  
  Go to the material master record (transaction code MM03) and check the material type and settings.
  Ensure that the material is set up as a generic material if it is supposed to be one. This may involve checking the "Generic" checkbox in the material master.
  
  
  
  Create a Generic Material:
  
  If the material is not a generic material and should be, you may need to create a new generic material. This can be done using transaction code MM01 and selecting the appropriate material type that supports generic materials.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration:
  
  Check the configuration settings in the system to ensure that the material type is correctly defined to allow for generic materials. This may involve consulting with your SAP configuration team.
  
  
  
  Use Correct Transaction:
  
  Ensure that you are using the correct transaction for the operation you are trying to perform. If the operation requires a generic material, make sure you are selecting a material that is defined as such.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help files related to generic materials and the specific transaction you are using to ensure compliance with the requirements.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Material Types: Familiarize yourself with the different material types in SAP and their characteristics. Some material types are specifically designed for generic materials.
  Variant Configuration: If you are working with variant configuration, ensure that the configuration profiles and dependencies are correctly set up for the generic material.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this error or provide additional guidance on handling generic materials.
  
  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 material management.