How To Fix /PM0/ABB_MESSAGES504 - The definition date must be earlier than the end date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /PM0/ABB_MESSAGES -

• Message number: 504

• Message text: The definition date must be earlier than the end 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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /PM0/ABB_MESSAGES504 - The definition date must be earlier than the end date ?

  The SAP error message /PM0/ABB_MESSAGES504 indicates that there is an issue with the date configuration in a particular transaction or process. Specifically, the error states that "The definition date must be earlier than the end date." This typically occurs in scenarios where date ranges are being defined, such as in maintenance planning, project management, or other modules that require date inputs.
  Cause:
  The error is caused by the following conditions:
  
  Incorrect Date Input: The definition date (start date) has been entered as the same as or later than the end date. This violates the logical requirement that a start date must precede an end date.
  Data Entry Error: A simple typographical error during data entry can lead to this issue.
  System Configuration: In some cases, the configuration settings in the system may not allow for the defined date ranges.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Date Entries:
  
  Review the dates you have entered in the relevant fields. Ensure that the definition date is set to a date that is earlier than the end date.
  If you are using a date picker, ensure that you are selecting the correct dates.
  
  
  
  Adjust Dates:
  
  If the definition date is incorrect, modify it to a date that is earlier than the end date.
  If the end date is incorrect, adjust it to a later date that is after the definition date.
  
  
  
  Validation:
  
  After making the changes, validate the entries to ensure that the error does not reoccur.
  If applicable, check for any dependencies or related entries that might also need to be adjusted.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about the correct date ranges, consult the relevant SAP documentation or user manuals for guidance on date configurations.
  
  
  
  Seek Help:
  
  If the issue persists after checking the dates, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with a functional expert who can provide further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message for additional insights or patches that may address the issue.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with the transaction codes related to the module you are working in, as they may provide additional context for date handling.
  User Roles: Ensure that you have the appropriate permissions to make changes to the date fields, as restrictions may lead to errors.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and proceed with your SAP tasks effectively.