How To Fix /SCWM/SHP_RCV517 - External change key must be provided

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SCWM/SHP_RCV -

• Message number: 517

• Message text: External change key must be provided

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SCWM/SHP_RCV517 - External change key must be provided ?

  The SAP error message /SCWM/SHP_RCV517 with the description "External change key must be provided" typically occurs in the context of the SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM) module. This error indicates that a required external change key is missing when trying to process a specific operation, such as a goods receipt or an inbound delivery.
  Cause:
  The error is usually caused by one of the following reasons:
  
  Missing External Change Key: The system expects an external change key to be provided for the operation being performed, but it is not included in the request.
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration settings for the relevant process may not be set up correctly, leading to the system not recognizing the external change key.
  Integration Issues: If the data is being transferred from an external system (like an ERP system), there may be issues with the data mapping or transfer that result in the external change key not being sent.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check the Input Data: Ensure that the external change key is included in the data being sent to the EWM system. This key is often required for tracking changes and updates to inventory or delivery processes.
  
  
  Review Configuration: Verify the configuration settings in the EWM system to ensure that the external change key is correctly defined and that the system is set up to accept it. This may involve checking the settings in the relevant customizing transactions.
  
  
  Integration Check: If the data is coming from an external system, check the integration settings and mappings to ensure that the external change key is being correctly transmitted. This may involve reviewing middleware settings or the interface between systems.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to the specific error message for additional context and troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  Debugging: If you have access to the system, you may want to enable debugging to trace the process and see where the external change key is expected and why it is not being provided.
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance, especially if this is a production issue.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional context.
  EWM Documentation: Review the SAP EWM documentation for details on the external change key and its role in various processes.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.