How To Fix /SCMTMS/MSG251 - Instance '&3' of BO '&1' is locked by user '&2'

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SCMTMS/MSG -

• Message number: 251

• Message text: Instance '&3' of BO '&1' is locked by user '&2'

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SCMTMS/MSG251 - Instance '&3' of BO '&1' is locked by user '&2' ?

  The SAP error message /SCMTMS/MSG251 indicates that a specific instance of a Business Object (BO) is locked by a user. This typically occurs in the context of SAP Transportation Management (TM) when a user is trying to access or modify a business object that is currently being edited or processed by another user.
  Cause:
  
  Concurrent Access: Another user is currently editing or processing the same instance of the business object (e.g., a transportation order, shipment, etc.).
  Session Timeout: A user may have left a session open, causing the lock to persist even if they are no longer actively working on it.
  System Error: Occasionally, system errors or crashes can leave locks in place that do not get released properly.
  
  Solution:
  
  Wait for Release: If the lock is held by another user, the simplest solution is to wait until that user completes their work and releases the lock.
  Identify the Locking User: You can identify the user who is holding the lock by checking the lock entries in the system. This can be done using transaction code SM12:
  
  Go to transaction SM12.
  Enter the relevant object name and execute to see the list of locks.
  Identify the user and the instance they are locking.
  
  
  Contact the Locking User: If possible, contact the user who is holding the lock to see if they can release it or if they are done with their task.
  Force Release the Lock: If the locking user is unavailable or if the lock is stale (e.g., due to a session timeout), an administrator can manually delete the lock entry in SM12. This should be done with caution, as it may lead to data inconsistencies if the user is still working on the object.
  Check for System Issues: If locks are persisting frequently, it may be worth investigating if there are underlying system issues or if the configuration needs to be adjusted.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Lock Management: Understanding how locks work in SAP is crucial. Locks are used to prevent data inconsistencies when multiple users are trying to access or modify the same data simultaneously.
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: To view and manage lock entries.
  SM21: To check system logs for any related errors or issues.
  SU01: To manage user accounts and check user statuses.
  
  
  Best Practices: Encourage users to log off properly and avoid leaving sessions open unnecessarily to minimize locking issues.
  
  If the problem persists or if you encounter frequent locking issues, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further investigation and resolution.