How To Fix MW451 - Reference to a contract not possible for item category &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 451

• Message text: Reference to a contract not possible for item category &1

What causes this issue?

Allocation table items can only be created referencing a contract if
goods are to be delivered direct to a store or a DC.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Select the corresponsing allocation table type or item category.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MW451 - Reference to a contract not possible for item category &1 ?

  The SAP error message MW451, which states "Reference to a contract not possible for item category &1," typically occurs when there is an issue with the item category in a purchase order or contract that is trying to reference a contract. This error can arise in various scenarios, particularly when dealing with purchasing documents.
  Causes:
  
  
  Incompatible Item Category: The item category specified in the purchase order or contract does not allow for referencing a contract. Certain item categories are designed for specific types of transactions and may not support contract references.
  
  
  Contract Type: The contract type being referenced may not be compatible with the item category of the purchase order. For example, a service contract may not be compatible with a material item category.
  
  
  Configuration Issues: The configuration settings in the SAP system for item categories and contract types may not be set up correctly, leading to incompatibility.
  
  
  Missing Master Data: The material or service master data may not be properly maintained, which can lead to issues when trying to reference contracts.
  
  
  Document Type Restrictions: Certain document types may have restrictions on referencing contracts based on the item category.
  
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Item Category: Review the item category used in the purchase order or contract. Ensure that it is compatible with the type of contract you are trying to reference. You may need to change the item category to one that allows contract referencing.
  
  
  Review Contract Type: Ensure that the contract type you are trying to reference is appropriate for the item category. If necessary, create a new contract that matches the item category.
  
  
  Configuration Review: Consult with your SAP configuration team to review the settings for item categories and contract types. Ensure that they are set up correctly to allow for the desired references.
  
  
  Master Data Maintenance: Check the material or service master data for completeness and correctness. Ensure that all necessary fields are filled out and that the data is consistent.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific details on item categories and their compatibility with contracts. This can provide insights into which item categories can reference contracts.
  
  
  Testing: If changes are made to configurations or master data, conduct tests to ensure that the issue is resolved and that the purchase order or contract can reference the contract as intended.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may use transaction codes like ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME31K (Create Contract), and ME22N (Change Purchase Order) to investigate and modify the relevant documents.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance on resolving it.
  User Exits and Enhancements: If your organization has custom enhancements or user exits, ensure that they are not interfering with standard functionality related to contracts and item categories.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to engage with SAP support or your internal SAP team for further assistance.