How To Fix SE401 - Please enter contract number and item

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SE - Dienstleistungen Stammdaten Leistungsposition

• Message number: 401

• Message text: Please enter contract number and item

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 SE401 - Please enter contract number and item ?

  The SAP error message SE401, which states "Please enter contract number and item," typically occurs in the context of contract management or when working with purchasing documents in SAP. This error indicates that the system requires both a contract number and an item number to proceed with the transaction you are attempting to execute.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Input: The most common cause of this error is that the user has not entered a contract number or item number in the relevant fields.
  Incorrect Field Mapping: Sometimes, the fields may not be correctly mapped or configured in the transaction you are using.
  Data Entry Error: There may be a typographical error or oversight in entering the contract number or item number.
  Authorization Issues: In some cases, the user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the contract or item data.
  
  Solution:
  
  Enter Required Information: Ensure that you have entered both the contract number and the item number in the appropriate fields. Double-check for any typos or incorrect entries.
  Check Contract Validity: Verify that the contract number you are entering is valid and active in the system. You can do this by checking the contract in the relevant transaction (e.g., ME33K for display contract).
  Review Configuration: If you are a system administrator or have access to configuration settings, check if the fields are correctly configured in the transaction you are using.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for the specific transaction you are using to ensure you are following the correct procedure.
  User Authorization: If you suspect authorization issues, contact your SAP security team to ensure you have the necessary permissions to access the contract and item data.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME33K (Display Contract), ME31K (Create Contract), and ME32K (Change Contract) to manage contracts effectively.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Training and Support: If you are new to SAP or the specific module you are working with, consider seeking training or support from your organization’s SAP team or consulting resources.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the SE401 error and proceed with your transaction in SAP.