How To Fix /SCMTMS/TAL038 - Number of periods &1 exceeds limit of &2; specify shorter range of dates

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SCMTMS/TAL -

• Message number: 038

• Message text: Number of periods &1 exceeds limit of &2; specify shorter range of dates

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SCMTMS/TAL038 - Number of periods &1 exceeds limit of &2; specify shorter range of dates ?

  The SAP error message /SCMTMS/TAL038 indicates that the number of periods specified in a transaction exceeds the allowed limit. This error typically occurs in the context of SAP Transportation Management (TM) when you are trying to process a range of dates that is too long.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when the user attempts to specify a date range that results in a number of periods (e.g., days, weeks, or months) that exceeds the system's predefined limit. This limit is set to ensure system performance and manageability, as processing too many periods at once can lead to performance issues.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you need to reduce the range of dates you are trying to process. Here are the steps you can take:
  
  
  Shorten the Date Range: Instead of selecting a long date range, try to specify a shorter range. For example, if you were trying to process a month, consider processing a week or a few days instead.
  
  
  Check Configuration Settings: If you frequently encounter this error and need to process longer date ranges, you may want to check the configuration settings in your SAP system. The limit for the number of periods can sometimes be adjusted by a system administrator, but this should be done with caution to avoid performance issues.
  
  
  Batch Processing: If you need to process a large amount of data, consider breaking it down into smaller batches. This way, you can process each batch separately without exceeding the limit.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation or help resources for more information on the specific limits and best practices for the transaction you are working with.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error may occur in various transaction codes related to SAP TM, such as those for planning, execution, or reporting.
  Performance Considerations: Always consider the performance implications of processing large datasets in SAP. Reducing the number of periods can help maintain system performance.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional insights or updates regarding this error message.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant who can provide further assistance tailored to your specific system configuration.