How To Fix PO160 - Data record already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PO - Spooler message

• Message number: 160

• Message text: Data record already exists

What causes this issue?

The record to be saved already exists.

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?

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PO160 - Data record already exists ?

  The SAP error message PO160, which states "Data record already exists," typically occurs when you attempt to create or modify a purchase order (PO) or another data record in SAP that already exists in the system. This error can arise in various contexts, such as during the creation of purchase orders, vendor master records, or other transactional data.
  Causes:
  
  
  Duplicate Entry: The most common cause is that the system has detected a duplicate entry for the data you are trying to create. This could be due to:
  
  An existing purchase order with the same number.
  A vendor master record that already exists with the same details.
  A material master record that is already created.
  
  
  
  Data Consistency Issues: Sometimes, inconsistencies in the database or issues with data synchronization can lead to this error.
  
  
  User Error: The user may inadvertently try to create a record that they believe is new but is actually a duplicate.
  
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Existing Records: Before creating a new record, check the existing records in the system to ensure that the data you are trying to enter does not already exist. Use transaction codes like ME23N (for purchase orders) or XK03 (for vendor master) to view existing records.
  
  
  Use Different Identifiers: If you are trying to create a new record, ensure that you are using unique identifiers (like PO numbers or vendor IDs) that do not conflict with existing records.
  
  
  Data Cleanup: If you suspect that there are duplicate records in the system, you may need to perform a data cleanup. This could involve merging duplicate records or deleting unnecessary duplicates, but this should be done with caution and typically requires appropriate authorizations.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help files related to the specific transaction you are working with to understand the requirements for unique data entries.
  
  
  Contact Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert who can help diagnose the problem further.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes for checking existing records (e.g., ME23N for purchase orders, ME21N for creating POs).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on how to properly create records in SAP to minimize the risk of duplicate entries.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the PO160 error and take appropriate action to resolve it.