How To Fix /SAPAPO/RET_MESSAGES234 - The start date must lie within the selected planning period

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPAPO/RET_MESSAGES -

• Message number: 234

• Message text: The start date must lie within the selected planning period

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPAPO/RET_MESSAGES234 - The start date must lie within the selected planning period ?

  The SAP error message /SAPAPO/RET_MESSAGES234 indicates that the start date you are trying to use for a planning activity does not fall within the defined planning period. This error is common in SAP Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) when users attempt to create or modify planning data outside the allowed time frame.
  Cause:
  
  Planning Period Configuration: The planning period has been defined in the system, and the start date you are trying to use is outside this period.
  Incorrect Date Entry: The date you entered might be incorrect or misformatted.
  Master Data Settings: The master data (like product or location) may have specific date restrictions that are not being adhered to.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Planning Period: Verify the planning period settings in the system. You can do this by navigating to the relevant configuration settings in SAP APO. Ensure that the start date you are trying to use falls within the defined planning horizon.
  
  
  Adjust Dates: If the start date is indeed outside the planning period, adjust it to a date that is within the allowed range.
  
  
  Review Master Data: Check the master data settings for the relevant product or location to ensure there are no additional restrictions on the dates.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation or help files for more details on how to configure planning periods and understand the implications of the settings.
  
  
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to change planning periods or related settings.
  
  
  Contact Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Planning Period Configuration: This can typically be found in the SAP APO configuration under the relevant planning area settings.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes related to planning and master data management in SAP APO, such as /SAPAPO/SDP94 for planning book settings.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and successfully proceed with your planning activities in SAP APO.