How To Fix /SAPAPO/VMI_APO023 - Purchase order number exceeds maximum length of 20 places

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPAPO/VMI_APO -

• Message number: 023

• Message text: Purchase order number exceeds maximum length of 20 places

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPAPO/VMI_APO023 - Purchase order number exceeds maximum length of 20 places ?

  The SAP error message /SAPAPO/VMI_APO023 indicates that a purchase order number exceeds the maximum allowed length of 20 characters in the context of SAP Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) and Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI). This error typically occurs when a purchase order number is being processed that is longer than the system's defined limit.
  Cause:
  
  Purchase Order Number Length: The primary cause of this error is that the purchase order number being used exceeds the maximum length of 20 characters. This can happen if:
  
  The purchase order number is generated or entered incorrectly.
  There is a mismatch between the systems (e.g., an external system generating longer PO numbers).
  
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Purchase Order Number: Verify the purchase order number being processed. Ensure that it does not exceed 20 characters. If it does, you will need to truncate or modify the number to fit within the limit.
  
  
  Adjust External Systems: If the purchase order numbers are being generated by an external system, consider adjusting the configuration of that system to ensure that it generates purchase order numbers that comply with SAP's length restrictions.
  
  
  Modify Data Entry: If users are manually entering purchase order numbers, provide training or guidelines to ensure they adhere to the character limit.
  
  
  Review Custom Code: If there is any custom code or enhancements that manipulate purchase order numbers, review that code to ensure it does not generate or allow purchase order numbers longer than 20 characters.
  
  
  Consult SAP Documentation: If the issue persists, consult SAP documentation or support for any specific configurations or settings that may affect the handling of purchase order numbers.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes in SAP APO and VMI that may help in troubleshooting or managing purchase orders.
  System Configuration: Review the configuration settings in SAP APO related to purchase order processing to ensure they align with your business requirements.
  
  By addressing the length of the purchase order number and ensuring compliance with SAP's limitations, you should be able to resolve the error message /SAPAPO/VMI_APO023.