How To Fix OC166 - End date must be larger than Start date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: OC - IS-Oil: BDRP Bulk Distribution Requirement Planning messages

• Message number: 166

• Message text: End date must be larger than Start date

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 OC166 - End date must be larger than Start date ?

  The SAP error message OC166, which states "End date must be larger than Start date," typically occurs when you are trying to enter or save a date range in a transaction or configuration where the end date is not greater than the start date. This can happen in various contexts, such as project planning, scheduling, or any scenario where date ranges are required.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date Entry: The most common cause is that the end date has been entered incorrectly, either as the same date as the start date or an earlier date.
  System Configuration: In some cases, the system configuration or settings may enforce rules that require the end date to be strictly after the start date.
  Data Migration Issues: If data is being imported or migrated, there may be inconsistencies in the date formats or values.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Date Entries: Review the start and end dates you have entered. Ensure that the end date is indeed later than the start date.
  Correct Format: Make sure that the dates are in the correct format as expected by the SAP system.
  Validation: If you are using a date picker, ensure that you are selecting the correct dates. Sometimes, manual entry can lead to errors.
  Review Dependencies: If the dates are dependent on other data (like project phases or tasks), ensure that those dependencies are correctly set up.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the date requirements for a specific transaction, refer to the SAP documentation or help resources for guidance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error can occur in various transaction codes, such as those related to project management (e.g., CJ20N for project planning) or HR (e.g., PA30 for personnel administration).
  User Roles: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to make changes to the dates in question.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to date handling in your specific version of SAP.
  Testing: If you are in a development or testing environment, try replicating the issue with different date combinations to understand the constraints better.
  
  If the problem persists after checking these aspects, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant who can provide more specific assistance based on your system configuration and the context of the error.