How To Fix RETAIL_ST_SC_MSG018 - An active inventory document already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RETAIL_ST_SC_MSG - Message Class for Retail Store Adjust Stock Application

• Message number: 018

• Message text: An active inventory document already exists

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message RETAIL_ST_SC_MSG018 - An active inventory document already exists ?

  The SAP error message RETAIL_ST_SC_MSG018 indicates that there is an active inventory document already present in the system, which prevents the creation of a new inventory document. This error typically occurs in the context of inventory management processes, particularly in retail scenarios where stock counts and inventory adjustments are managed.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error is that the system has detected an existing inventory document that is still active or not yet completed. This can happen if:
  
  An inventory count is currently being processed.
  An inventory document was created but not yet finalized or posted.
  There are multiple users trying to create inventory documents for the same stock location simultaneously.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Inventory Documents:
  
  Navigate to the inventory management module and check for any active inventory documents. You can use transaction codes like LI01N (Display Inventory Count) or LI02N (Change Inventory Count) to view existing documents.
  
  
  
  Complete or Cancel Existing Documents:
  
  If you find an active inventory document that is no longer needed, you can either complete it (if it is valid) or cancel it if it was created in error. Ensure that all necessary stock counts are entered and the document is posted.
  
  
  
  Wait for Processing:
  
  If another user is processing an inventory document, you may need to wait until they complete their task before you can create a new document.
  
  
  
  Check for Locks:
  
  Sometimes, inventory documents can be locked due to ongoing processes. You can check for locks using transaction SM12 to see if there are any locks on the inventory document that need to be released.
  
  
  
  Consult with Your Team:
  
  If you are unsure about the status of existing inventory documents, consult with your team or the person responsible for inventory management to clarify the situation.
  
  
  
  System Configuration:
  
  In some cases, the error may be related to system configuration. Ensure that the settings for inventory management are correctly configured to allow for the creation of new documents under the appropriate conditions.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as LI01N, LI02N, LI03N (Display Inventory Count), and MB1C (Goods Movement) for managing inventory documents.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP's support portal can provide additional insights and solutions.
  User Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to create and manage inventory documents in the system.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and proceed with your inventory management tasks.