How To Fix RFM_MM_PUR_PC008 - Item &1 can't be linked to the higher-level item

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RFM_MM_PUR_PC -

• Message number: 008

• Message text: Item &1 can't be linked to the higher-level item

What causes this issue?

You cannot add subitems to a referenced higher-level item.

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 RFM_MM_PUR_PC008 - Item &1 can't be linked to the higher-level item ?

  The SAP error message RFM_MM_PUR_PC008 indicates that there is an issue with linking a specific item (denoted as &1) to a higher-level item in a purchasing or materials management context. This error typically arises in scenarios involving purchase orders, purchase requisitions, or material master data where hierarchical relationships between items are expected.
  Cause:
  The error can occur due to several reasons, including:
  
  Incorrect Item Category: The item you are trying to link may not be compatible with the higher-level item due to its category (e.g., service vs. material).
  Missing Configuration: The system may not be configured to allow the linking of certain item types or categories.
  Hierarchy Issues: The item may not be part of the same hierarchy or may not be defined correctly in the material master.
  Data Inconsistencies: There may be inconsistencies in the data related to the items, such as missing or incorrect master data.
  Document Type Restrictions: Certain document types may have restrictions on how items can be linked.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Item Category: Verify that the item category of the item you are trying to link is compatible with the higher-level item. You may need to change the item category if it is incorrect.
  
  
  Review Configuration: Ensure that the system configuration allows for the linking of the specific item types. This may involve checking settings in the customizing (SPRO) related to purchasing and materials management.
  
  
  Validate Hierarchy: Confirm that both items are part of the same hierarchy and that the higher-level item is correctly defined in the material master.
  
  
  Correct Data Inconsistencies: Check for any inconsistencies in the master data for both items. This may involve reviewing the material master records and ensuring all necessary fields are populated correctly.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines related to the error message and the context in which it occurs.
  
  
  Test with Different Items: If possible, try linking different items to see if the issue is specific to the item in question or if it is a broader issue.
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists after trying the above steps, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance, providing them with the error message and context.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME51N (Create Purchase Requisition), or MM02 (Change Material) to investigate the items involved.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to perform the actions related to the items in question.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.