How To Fix N2M162 - You cannot delete the item as the association cannot be deleted

N2M162 - Overview

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: N2M - Global Trade: Item Category Management

• Message number: 162

• Message text: You cannot delete the item as the association cannot be deleted

What causes this issue?

You want to delete item &V1& of the document.

System Response

The item cannot be deleted as it is associated with item &V2&. Item
&V1& has business process step &V3&, item &V2& has business process
step &V4&. In Customizing, the 'Deletion not allowed' indicator is set
for this combination of business process steps.

How to fix this error?

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

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 N2M162 - You cannot delete the item as the association cannot be deleted ?

  The SAP error message N2M162, which states "You cannot delete the item as the association cannot be deleted," typically occurs in the context of managing items in a document or transaction where there are dependencies or associations that prevent deletion. This error is often encountered in modules related to materials management, sales and distribution, or project management.
  
  Cause:
  
  Dependencies: The item you are trying to delete may have dependencies or associations with other items or documents. For example, it could be linked to a sales order, purchase order, or another document that requires it to remain intact.
  Status Restrictions: The item may be in a status that does not allow for deletion. For instance, if the item is already processed or has been referenced in subsequent transactions, it cannot be deleted.
  Configuration Settings: Certain configuration settings in the SAP system may prevent the deletion of items that are part of a specific process or