How To Fix PK504 - Maximum number of empty kanban containers exceeded in control cycle &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PK - Production - KANBAN

• Message number: 504

• Message text: Maximum number of empty kanban containers exceeded in control cycle &1

What causes this issue?

In control cycle maintenance, you can determine the maximum permitted
number of empty kanban containers in the control cycle. This number has
been exceeded.

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?

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 PK504 - Maximum number of empty kanban containers exceeded in control cycle &1 ?

  The SAP error message PK504, which states "Maximum number of empty kanban containers exceeded in control cycle &1," typically occurs in the context of Kanban management within SAP's Production Planning (PP) module. This error indicates that the system has reached the maximum limit of empty Kanban containers that can be managed for a specific control cycle.
  Cause:
  
  Exceeded Limit: The primary cause of this error is that the number of empty Kanban containers in the specified control cycle has exceeded the predefined limit set in the system.
  Configuration Settings: The configuration for the Kanban control cycle may have a maximum limit for empty containers, and this limit has been reached.
  Incorrect Data Entry: There may be incorrect data entries or settings in the Kanban control cycle that lead to this situation.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Control Cycle Settings:
  
  Go to the Kanban control cycle configuration in SAP (Transaction code: PKMC).
  Review the settings for the control cycle associated with the error message.
  Check the maximum number of empty containers allowed and adjust it if necessary.
  
  
  
  Adjust the Number of Empty Containers:
  
  If the limit is too low for your operational needs, consider increasing the maximum number of empty Kanban containers in the control cycle settings.
  
  
  
  Review Kanban Container Status:
  
  Check the status of the Kanban containers in the control cycle. Ensure that containers are being processed and moved appropriately to avoid reaching the maximum limit.
  
  
  
  Clear Unused Containers:
  
  If there are empty Kanban containers that are no longer needed, consider clearing them from the system to free up space for new containers.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources for additional guidance on managing Kanban control cycles and understanding the implications of container limits.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Kanban Control Cycle: A Kanban control cycle is a key component in the Kanban system, which is used for managing inventory and production processes in a pull-based system.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as PKMC (Manage Kanban Control Cycle) and PK05 (Change Kanban).
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to Kanban management that may provide additional insights or solutions for similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the PK504 error and ensure that your Kanban system operates smoothly.