How To Fix OL681 - Expiration period can only be increased

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: OL - Workflow object types: Run-time system

• Message number: 681

• Message text: Expiration period can only be increased

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message OL681 - Expiration period can only be increased ?

  The SAP error message OL681, which states "Expiration period can only be increased," typically occurs in the context of managing expiration dates for materials or products in the SAP system. This error is often related to the handling of shelf life or expiration dates in inventory management.
  Cause:
  The error arises when you attempt to decrease the expiration period of a material that has already been defined in the system. In SAP, once an expiration period is set for a material, it can only be increased, not decreased. This is to ensure that inventory management and planning processes remain consistent and reliable.
  Solution:
  To resolve the OL681 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Current Expiration Settings: Review the current expiration period set for the material in question. You can do this by navigating to the material master data in SAP.
  
  
  Increase the Expiration Period: If you need to change the expiration period, you can only increase it. Update the expiration date or shelf life in the material master record to a longer duration.
  
  
  Review Related Documents: Ensure that there are no open purchase orders, sales orders, or stock transfers that might be affected by the change in expiration period.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about how to proceed, refer to SAP documentation or consult with your SAP administrator or support team for guidance on managing expiration dates.
  
  
  Testing: After making the necessary changes, test the process to ensure that the error does not reoccur and that the material behaves as expected in the system.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Material Master Data: The material master is a central repository of information about materials in SAP. It includes data related to purchasing, inventory management, and sales.
  Expiration Date Management: This is crucial for industries dealing with perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, or any products that have a limited shelf life.
  SAP Modules: This error is often encountered in modules like SAP MM (Materials Management) and SAP WM (Warehouse Management).
  
  If you continue to experience issues or if the error persists after following the above steps, it may be beneficial to reach out to SAP support or your internal IT team for further assistance.