How To Fix /SCWM/SERIAL020 - Number of temporary serial numbers (&1) is too small (&2 required)


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: /SCWM/SERIAL -

  • Message number: 020

  • Message text: Number of temporary serial numbers (&1) is too small (&2 required)

  • Show details Hide details


  • Self-Explanatory Message

    Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

    To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

    Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.



    What else can you do?

    First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

    Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

    You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.


Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SCWM/SERIAL020 - Number of temporary serial numbers (&1) is too small (&2 required) ?

    The SAP error message /SCWM/SERIAL020 indicates that the number of temporary serial numbers available is insufficient for the operation you are trying to perform. This error typically occurs in the context of warehouse management and serial number handling in SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM).

    Cause:

    The error is triggered when the system requires more temporary serial numbers than are currently available in the system. This can happen in scenarios such as:

    • Performing a goods movement that requires serial number tracking.
    • Trying to process a large batch of items that need to be assigned serial numbers.
    • The configuration settings for temporary serial number allocation are not sufficient for the volume of transactions being processed.

    Solution:

    To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:

    1. Increase the Number of Temporary Serial Numbers:

      • You can adjust the configuration settings in SAP to increase the number of temporary serial numbers that can be allocated. This is typically done in the EWM configuration settings.
      • Navigate to the relevant configuration area in SAP and look for settings related to serial number management or temporary serial number allocation.
    2. Check Serial Number Profiles:

      • Ensure that the serial number profiles assigned to the materials or products being processed are correctly configured to allow for the required number of temporary serial numbers.
    3. Monitor and Manage Serial Number Usage:

      • Regularly monitor the usage of serial numbers in your warehouse operations. If you frequently encounter this error, it may indicate that your current settings are not aligned with your operational needs.
    4. Consult SAP Documentation:

      • Refer to the SAP Help Portal or relevant documentation for detailed guidance on configuring serial number management in EWM.
    5. Contact SAP Support:

      • If the issue persists after making adjustments, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance. They can provide insights based on your specific system configuration and usage patterns.

    Related Information:

    • Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like /SCWM/PRDI (for managing serial numbers) or /SCWM/PRD (for production-related activities) to check and manage serial number allocations.
    • Customizing Settings: The settings for serial number management can be found under the EWM customizing path, typically in the area of "Logistics Execution" or "Warehouse Management."
    • Performance Considerations: Increasing the number of temporary serial numbers may have implications for system performance, so it’s important to balance the settings with your operational requirements.

    By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and ensure that your warehouse operations can proceed without interruption.

    • Do you have any question about this error?


      Upgrade now to chat with this error.


Instant HelpGet instant SAP help. Start your 7-day free trial now.


Related SAP Error Messages

Click the links below to see the following related messages:

Click on this link to search all SAP messages.


Rating
ERPlingo's SAP support assistant is amazing. Saves me countless hours trying to solve complex SAP issues myself. It's a real game changer!
Rate 1
Thomas Michael
SAP Consultant, Author & Speaker