How To Fix RFM_MM_PUR_PC000 - Item &1 cannot reference itself

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RFM_MM_PUR_PC -

• Message number: 000

• Message text: Item &1 cannot reference itself

What causes this issue?

You have entered a higher-level item that?s the same as its own item
number.

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?

Enter a higher-level item that?s not the same as the item number.

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 RFM_MM_PUR_PC000 - Item &1 cannot reference itself ?

  The SAP error message "RFM_MM_PUR_PC000 Item &1 cannot reference itself" typically occurs in the context of purchasing or material management processes. This error indicates that there is a circular reference in the configuration or data entry, where an item is trying to reference itself, which is not allowed.
  Cause:
  
  Self-Reference: The most common cause of this error is that an item (e.g., a material or service) is being configured or processed in such a way that it references itself. This can happen in various scenarios, such as when defining a bill of materials (BOM), service specifications, or in purchasing documents.
  Incorrect Configuration: There may be an issue with how the item is set up in the system, leading to a self-referential loop.
  Data Entry Error: During the creation or modification of a purchasing document, the user may have inadvertently selected the same item for both the main item and its component.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Item Configuration: Review the configuration of the item in question. Ensure that it does not reference itself in any way. This includes checking BOMs, service specifications, or any related documents.
  Correct Data Entry: If the error occurred during data entry, go back to the document or transaction where the error was triggered and ensure that the item is not being referenced as both the main item and a component.
  Review Related Documents: If the item is part of a larger purchasing or material management process, check all related documents to ensure that there are no circular references.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on item configuration and purchasing processes to ensure compliance with best practices.
  Seek Help from SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to SAP support or your internal SAP team for further assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context, you may be using transaction codes like ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME51N (Create Purchase Requisition), or CS01 (Create BOM) when encountering this error.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions to common problems.
  User Forums: Consider visiting SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the error message "Item &1 cannot reference itself."