How To Fix N2M181 - The merchandise category should be changed despite associations existing

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 181

• Message text: The merchandise category should be changed despite associations existing

What causes this issue?

You want to replace merchandise category &V2& with merchandise category
&V3& in item &V1&.

System Response

Item &V1& is already associated with other items. The Customizing
settings were checked and this showed that association partners are
selected for items independently of the merchandise category.

How to fix this error?

If this message is used as an error message, this means that it is not
possible to change the merchandise category. Before the merchandise
category is changed, all associations relating to item &V1& must be
deleted.
If this message is used as an information message, a warning message or
a success message, this means that the new merchandise category is
accepted.

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 N2M181 - The merchandise category should be changed despite associations existing ?

  The SAP error message N2M181 indicates that there is an issue with changing the merchandise category of a material or product in the system, even though there are existing associations that prevent this change. This typically occurs in the context of materials management and inventory management within SAP.
  Cause:
  The error arises when you attempt to change the merchandise category of a material that is linked to various transactions, documents, or configurations in the system. The merchandise category is a critical attribute that affects how the material is managed, reported, and processed in SAP. If there are existing associations (like purchase orders, sales orders, stock levels, etc.) that depend on the current merchandise category, the system will prevent the change to maintain data integrity.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Associations: Identify and review the existing associations that are linked to the material. This can include:
  
  Open purchase orders
  Open sales orders
  Stock levels in inventory
  Any other documents or transactions that reference the material
  
  
  
  Clear Associations: If possible, clear or close the associations that are preventing the change. This may involve:
  
  Completing or canceling open purchase or sales orders.
  Adjusting stock levels (e.g., transferring stock to another material or location).
  Deleting or archiving any related documents.
  
  
  
  Change Merchandise Category: Once the associations are cleared, attempt to change the merchandise category again.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on changing merchandise categories, as there may be additional considerations based on your organization's configuration.
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that may help in managing materials, such as:
  
  MM02 (Change Material)
  ME22N (Change Purchase Order)
  VA02 (Change Sales Order)
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any updates or specific instructions related to error N2M181. SAP Notes can provide insights into known issues and recommended fixes.
  
  
  User Roles and Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to make changes to merchandise categories, as restrictions may also lead to errors.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the N2M181 error and successfully change the merchandise category as needed.